Deia Unpacked

Hello and welcome to Deia Unpacked. This episode is a bit different and a little bit risky for Tara. It's with Juan Ripoll, the new mayor of Deia. As you all know, Tara has loafed hard on getting her Spanish speaking skills up to scratch, and like many of us, she often finds herself having mixed language conversations with island locals. Now just to be fair to her, between recording this talk and the day it comes out into the world, she has been seriously studying Spanish, so it's hopefully better now than when this was recorded. That said, Juan, who is not an English speaker, made an incredibly lovely and gracious effort to do this talk with her, so that the community can get to know who their new mayor is, what he values, and what his priorities for Deia are. So sit back, possibly have a good chuckle at Tara's expense, and enjoy meeting the new mayor of Deia.

In this episode Tara speaks to a brilliant, lifelong native of the Soller Valley, a man with deep connections to the olive and orange trees of the Serra Tramuntana, a member of the UNESCO World Heritage Committee, and part of the Can Det family business, maker of world class olive oil, Tomeu Deya Canals. Tomeu is a wealth of knowledge about the Serra Tramuntana and what makes it one of the most unique cultural landscapes in the world. If you love the Serra Tramuntana and Mallorcan culture, this talk is for you.

In this episode, Tara talks to the one and only Andy Bell about his new solo album Ten Crowns. It's a delightful moment of cozying up with tea and bonding over music, having a mutual love fest over Debbie Harry, who collaborated with Andy on Hearts a Liar on the new album, and a tarot reading by Andy.

In this episode Tara talks to a rock and roller, a rebel, who also happens to be an excellent photographer, Mallorca Aborigine, and free spirit, Pere Colom. In their talk, Pere brings us back to the mystic year of 1979 when the music scene in Deia was as wild and experimental as the musicians who played it. Pere's sense of adventure and his credo of “Porque No?,” makes this a super fun talk and reminds us that in its core, Deia has always been a haven for creativity like no other.

In this episode Tara talks to a brilliant, thoughtful man, who has worked tirelessly to protect the present and future cultural landscape of the Serra Tramuntana, Executive Chairman of Tramuntana XXI, Joe Holles. This talk is a tribute to this unique place that is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Joe walks us through some of the challenges and solutions that promise to keep this cultural landscape healthy and thriving far into the future.

In this special episode, the tables are turned again, and Louise asks Tara the questions. It's a walk through Tara's life stateside, and a decent insight into what makes her tick. Louise does a fantastic job on getting this podcast host to spill the beans, and it's a great reminder that the patchwork quilt of Deia, takes all kinds.

In this episode Tara talks to a member of the world class team at Belmond La Residencia, award winning Assistant Head Concierge, Francesco Trevisan. In their talk we learn that an excellent team, along with the best concierge services, equals an unparalleled travel experience. Francesco's love for Deia, Mediterranean culture, and the work he does, makes it no surprise that he is a winner. His humor and charm shine through in this fun and inspiring talk.

In this episode Tara talks to a tried and true Deianenc, a woman of many talents who is working hard to keep art alive and thriving in the village, Art Curator for Sa Tafona at Hotel La Residencia, Amy Sheridan. In their talk we find out about what it was like to grow up in a house of artists, how art influenced the culture of Deia, and why Amy believes that showing art in the village is vital for the community. It's one of those great moments when you just get to hear two women talking and getting into it. Amy's low key style and brilliance, makes this a fascinating talk.

In this episode Tara talks to the super talented, free spirited antiquer Amanda Pickett. In their, talk they cover everything from Amanda's early life in Scotland, the culture of antique appreciation that she grew up in, to what it's like to live freestyle here in Deia. Amanda's warmth combined with her openness, makes this a lovely talk.

In this episode Tara talks to a veteran of the early Deia music scene, a man with a deep passion for music, poetry and the wild history of Deia, front man of The Offbeats and the Sex Beatles, Hamish Macdonald. This talk is a rambling romp through some fantastic Deia stories, and the revisiting of the musical counter culture that grew up on the island. Hamish's memory for cool details, and his affection for the fascinating characters shine through in this fabulous talk. Intro track is the Sex Beatles ‘El Suelo', closing song is ‘No. 9' also by Sex Beatles.

In this episode Tara talks to an incredibly smart, and lovely young woman, who absolutely has it going on, Founder of The Calendar Mallorca, Nina Moons. In their talk we learn about Nina's life as a citizen of the world, living in many different countries, how she landed in Mallorca as a home base, what it's like to raise young children on the island and how she started her incredible new project. Nina's intelligence, gutsiness, and depth of observation helped her to see a need and meet it, resulting in a project that is taking off in every good direction. This talk is fun and inspiring.

In this episode Tara speaks to an extraordinary person, a talented singer and songwriter with a vast and unique story, Leo Orlando Napier. Orlando's deep roots in Deia, his multicultural background, and his adventures in LA, makes this a fascinating and raw conversation with an artist who is fearlessly authentic and incredibly likable. This is not the talk to listen to if you are in the car with your kids, but it is definitely a conversation worth listening to. We have included a clip of Lady Killer and finish the talk with Can't Change Crazy, two Orlando originals.

In this episode, Tara speaks to a thoughtful man from Alconasser who has traveled around the world, a good friend and a solid citizen of Deia, Daniel Fabian. In their talk, we learn that Daniel came to Mallorca early in life, where he developed a passion to explore and understand the natural world. Daniel's adventures, as well as his appreciation for other cultures inspires a sense of wonder, and his knowledge of the biosphere and sustainable gardening makes this a fascinating talk.

In this episode, Tara speaks to a brilliant man with a long history with Deia and Mallorca, a musician, a businessman, a scientist, an expert on water and just an overall super guy, Stephen Lambert. In their talk we learn about Stephen's early days in Deia, playing chess with the tough guys, and playing guitar with Kevin Ayers. Stephen shares some fascinating stories and knowledge in this extraordinary talk. Stay tuned to the very end to hear Stephen play a stunning acoustic version of Lady Rachel, a song by Kevin Ayers.

In this episode, the tables get turned and the delightful Jane Winterbottom asks Tara all of the questions. It's a fun twist and a great talk about Deia, and life.

In this episode, the tables get turned and the delightful Jane Winterbottom asks Tara all of the questions. It's a fun twist and a great talk about Deia, and life.

In this episode Tara speaks to a woman who has created a space for the village to come together and get strong, an expert in the field of fitness, owner/ operator of Art Pilates Deia, Marga Garau. In their talk, we learn about Marga's early history with the disciplined study of dance, her journey into becoming a teacher of pilates, and the great adventure that brought her to Deia. Over the years, Marga has become a beloved member of the Deia community and her incredible loveliness shines through in this fun talk.

Hello and welcome to Deia Unpacked. In this episode Tara speaks to a powerhouse in the fashion, music and film industries, a remarkable woman with a birdseye view of the complicated and glorious world of glamor, makeup artist Georgie Hamed. In their talk we learn about Georgie's extensive career, working with some of the most familiar faces in entertainment, and how she moved from high fashion to rock and roll, and how this has shaped her vision of what beauty is. It's a fascinating talk and an opportunity for two women to sit down and have a heartfelt conversation about the beauty industry and its impact on society. 

In this episode Tara speaks to a young man who has truly become an honorary member of the Deia community, a thinker and a lover of beauty, the talented artist in residency at La Residencia, Hashel Al Lamki. In their talk, we learn about Hashel's journey from Abu Dhabi to New York and beyond. His art is expansive and informed by a thoughtful worldview, bringing sustainability and beauty together to make something that is unique and important. This is such a fun and informative talk.

In this episode Tara speaks to an energetic, introspective, and exceptional woman, entrepreneurial yoga teacher and gut health specialist Mays Al-Ali. In their talk we learn about Mays journey from London party girl, to Ibiza Yoga and Health Teacher. We cover everything from health, to the complexities of life and what it means to be human and living on the island of Mallorca. It's a really fun conversation about everything.

In this talk, Tara speaks to a very important person on the island, a man with a great sense of humor who is a remarkable chef, the Owner/Operator of Famosa Samosa, Kunal Singh. In their talk we learn about Kunal's adventurous nature and how it has led him on the path to providing Mallorca with fabulous Indian Food. If you are an Indian food lover like Tara, this talk is for you. It takes so many fun twists and turns, and is guaranteed to leave you feeling hungry.

In this episode Tara speaks with the delightful and brilliant VP of Artnet, Sophie Neuendorf. In their talk, Sophie speaks about all things art, from the business side, to the personal side of why art is so important for meaningful living. Sophie's observations and wealth of knowledge makes this an informative and fun conversation. In many ways, this talk is a reminder that oftentimes, life impersonates art.

In this episode Tara speaks to a super professional, a man who is on top of the job with an exceptional standard for working with visitors to Deia, Pep Ferreiro, the Head Concierge of Hotel La Residencia. In their talk we learn about what it takes to create an environment of customer satisfaction at one of the world's finest hotels. Pep's enthusiasm for his work is as inspiring as his ability to make magic happen.

In this episode Tara speaks to two fabulous women who are adventurous, out of the box, and very talented artists, Vivian Borsani and Anja Kleener. In their talk, we learn that both of these artists have fascinating backgrounds that have led them to reinvent themselves more than once. Not only are Vivian and Anja involved in the Mallorca art scene, they frequently have shows together and are great friends. This talk is full of creative energy, laughter, and is a good fun listen.

Hello and welcome to Deia Unpacked. In this episode Tara speaks to a man who has mastered the art of mystery, dedication, and excellence, the CEO of Butler Experience Mallorca, Andrea Loni. In their talk, we learn about Andrea's journey through the world of hospitality and how it landed him in Deia. Andrea's connection with the Deia community combined with his empathetic nature, has made him a successful entrepreneur on the island, as well as an excellent husband and father. This talk is super fun and it gives an interesting insight into how important hospitality is for the island economy.

In this episode Tara speaks to a Deia original who also happens to be a very talented singer/songwriter, Natalia Farran. In their talk we learn about what it was like for Natalia to grow up in a family that nurtured artistic expression in all of its forms. Natalia talks about her career in voice and music, and her upcoming album. Natalia's poise and thoughtfulness makes this a very compelling talk. Stay tuned to the end when you will hear Natalia singing “Home,” written by Natalia, arranged by and produced by Clarissa Farran Graves, with Ramon Farran on drums.

In this episode Tara speaks to a tenacious, brilliant artist, and a beloved member of the Deia community Gina Cubeles. In their talk we learn about the incredible art community in Deia and Llucalcari around the time when Spain's Modernisme was influencing some of the greatest artists in the world. Gina's lively mind, and incredible passion for her art, which is full of natural imagery and texture, represents a valuable generational legacy of the arts in Spain.

In this episode Tara speaks to one of the sons of Deia, a young man who is civic minded, family minded and who has a close group of legacy friends who make up a Deia brotherhood, Pep Salas. In their talk, we learn about Pep's connection to Deia, and his concerns about the issues that impact the village. It is delightful to know that this next generation coming up, cares and is committed to the future of this special community and its rich heritage.

In this episode Tara got to speak to a fabulous couple whose sense of humor, and bon vivant energy are exactly what we all need this holiday season, Karina and William Annesley. Their knowledge of good food, wine and spirits, combined with their wit and fascinating life experiences makes this such a fun talk. There are some great shout outs to a few of the island's local eateries, and enough naughty language to make us wonder if the Annesleys will be getting Santa presents this year. Tara hopes you enjoy this talk as much as she did.

In this episode Tara speaks to the thoughtful, intellectual artist and photographer, Pixy Liao. Pixy, also known as Bloody Pixy in the art world, has created a long term vision of relationships through her most important body of work, Experimental Relationship. Tara got to talk to her during her summer Residency with La Residencia here in Deia. In their talk, we learn that Pixy's life experience growing up as a single child in China during the time of the one child policy, shaped her worldview and led her on a path of creativity that resonates on a global scale.

In this episode Tara speaks to the warm and wonderful woman who researched and wrote the book Soul of Soller, Ellen Joosten. If you love Soller as much as Tara does, this is your episode. In it, Ellen and Tara talk about everything Soller, from its history to its current state, with all of the love and affection that special town deserves. This talk is a celebration of what Tara, a born and raised New Yorker calls, “the Brooklyn of Mallorca.”

In this episode, Tara speaks to an adventurous, risk taking artist who also happens to have a good sense for business, Sara le Roy. Sara recently opened Deiarte Gallery & Bar on Deia's high street. Sara is as warm, funny and engaging as her art is dark, multilayered and powerful. She is a remarkable addition to the Deia community, and her gallery already tells the tale of many incredible Deia moments to come.

In this episode, Tara speaks to a remarkable woman, a native Deianenc, who is a vital part of the Mallorcan community in Deia, Magdalena Ripoll Vives. In their talk we learn that Magdalena has family connections with some of the old Deia families, including that of Toni Vives who was the secretary to Archduke Lluis Salvadore. They talk about her passion for theater and how the performing arts has become an important part of Deia culture. They also discuss the changes in Deia she has seen in her lifetime, and her sense of not understanding what a paradise she had until it changed, including concerns that they both have for the loss of Mallorcan culture on the island. Can we hold onto what is left of paradise and Mallorcan culture?

This talk holds a special place in Tara's heart. Last Fall she had the honor of talking to an incredible young woman who landed in Deia during the Pandemic with her small baby. She's a punk rocker, a documentary filmmaker, and a journalist, Hannah Brooks. After a long and arduous journey with addiction, Hannah and her partner were creating a life together here in Deia when her partner suddenly had a fatal relapse, not very long after their talk. It was for this reason that Tara was hesitant to release the talk, but after recently speaking with Hannah, they are both ready to share their talk, and Tara looks forward to having Hannah back on. Warning that we do discuss addiction.

In this episode Tara speaks to a man who is a writer, an intellectual, with an incredible gift for good conversation, and a fascination for Deia, David Holzer. In their talk, we learn about David's journey with yoga and how it helped him to stop drinking, and his lifelong relationship with writing and books. This talk takes a lot of fun turns, covering everything from cancel-culture, to rock and roll, to goddesses and beyond. Warning that there is talk of drugs and alcohol use.

In this episode, Tara speaks to a dear friend, an expert canyoner who is fearless in the face of risk, Toni Calero. A warning to the listener that in the talk they speak about a serious accident that Toni had in November of 2021 while canyoning on the island. Though Toni continues to deal with the aftermath of a serious, nearly fatal accident, his ability to heal, his mental toughness and his determination, along with his continued training makes him somewhat of an outlier who illustrates how much the human mind and body can overcome.

In this episode Tara speaks to an iconic woman who has had deep roots in Deia, with a vast career in public relations, and who has spent years lifting up other women around the world, Lynne Franks. In their talk we learn that Lynne launched her PR firm at a time when London was crackling with creative energy, a time when women were changing their dynamics at the grass-roots level. An innovator with endless energy and ideas, Lynne's reputation for understanding the current zeitgeist holds up in this fun and interesting talk.

In this episode Tara talks to a hard working man, competitive, compassionate, kind, and a natural born leader Thomas Moons, the General Manager of Hotel La Residencia here in Deia. In their talk we get a full update on all things La Residencia, including its remarkable successes and its wonderful offerings. Thomas gives us an insight into what it means to run one of the world's top hotels, with a knowledge that ties excellent customer service to an excellent staff. Thomas' commitment to being the best, his staff's personal growth and well being, combined with his openness and ability to see the big picture, explains why Hotel La Residencia is one of a kind.

In this episode Tara celebrates the female energy of Deia with a remarkable woman who is known for her excellence and her hard work, Louise Fletcher Loni. In their talk we learn about Louise's journey to becoming the owner operator of Mountain Wellness Mallorca, a successful business that encompasses a wide range of wellness services, including massage, beauty treatments, yoga, and most recently a high street hair stylist. A business entrepreneur who is juggling work, marriage and two small children, Louise gives us a look into the life of the working mom in Deia, and how community can mean everything to a young family.

In this episode Tara had so much fun speaking to an incredible native Mallorcan, he's funny, super smart, full of knowledge and great ideas, Mountain Guide Martin Bestard. In their talk they cover everything from cleaning up trails, preservation, sustainable tourism, and all of the things that people who love Mallorca love to talk about. Martin's love and respect for Mallorca, and his diplomatic approach towards tourism and protecting it, is endearing and important. Just a heads up that Tara uses some well aimed expletives so if you are listening with children, it could be a great teaching moment.

In this episode Tara had the pleasure of speaking with one of the woman painters on the island who is a risk taker, and an innovator in the art world, Natasha Zupan. In their talk, Natasha tells us about the times in her life when she had to reinvent herself as an artist in order to work within the contemporary framework. We learn that despite roadblocks she faced as a woman in the male dominated field of painting, she was able to find her own style with its unabashed feminine energy. There is so much more to painting than sitting at the canvas, it entails the logistics of packing and shipping large works to far flung places.  Natasha's intellectual and beautiful paintings are as inspirational as the artist herself.

Tara always says that every once in a while, life likes to throw out curve balls. The kind that upends you, and takes you on an unexpected journey whether you want it or not. Tara had the great fortune of meeting Antonio Navas through a common friend in Deia while recently on one of these journeys, and they sat down together in New York City to talk. Antonio has had an incredible career in branding and advertising with some of the biggest names around the globe, and in their talk, we find out that amongst his many talents, one of his strongest is that of a philosopher with an enduring ability to find beauty in life. Listen to the end to hear Antonio recite the haunting poem Regardless, by Charles Bukowski.

In this episode Tara speaks to a man who is full of determination, hard work, and a deep passion for the game of tennis, Tennis Coach Director Ariel Nastasia. In their talk, we learn that tennis is a metaphor for the challenges of life, and that the game is so much more than a game. From Buenas Aires to Mallorca, Ariel's journey as a top tennis player in Argentina, his experiences of learning from, and working with the best, as well as his passion for the game, has made him a sought after coach and mentor. Ariel's warmth and relaxed sense of humor makes this a fun talk.

In this episode, Tara speaks to a woman who led a life of adventure and fearlessness, an entrepreneur and connoisseur of living life to the fullest, Sandra Jones. In their talk, we get an earful about Sandra's life of adventures and how she landed in Deia at a time when it was exploding with powerful male energy and artistic creativity. Sandra's stories make us yearn for a time when people knew how to have fun, and were not afraid to push against societal boundaries. In a time when life is more prescribed than ever, this is a great listen.

In this episode Tara speaks to a remarkable woman who plays a key role in the operations of Hotel La Residencia in Deia, PR Manager, Hanna Bornebusch. Hanna's warmth, sense of humor, kindness, and her attention to detail, creates a comfortable, and welcoming environment at this iconic hotel. Tara holds a special affection for Hanna because she took a chance and championed the Deia Unpacked Podcast and this support has been a key factor in growing the podcast and featuring all of the fabulous people who live and spend time in Mallorca. Listen in to find out about all of the wonderful new things that are happening at La Res.

In this episode Tara speaks to two musicians who grew up in different cultures, who by chance found each other and have been exploring all of the musical similarities and overlap that comes from the ancient songs from Mallorca and Persia. The musicians are Pegah Khoei and Tomeu Gomila, and their music project is Qanat. In their talk, we learn about the ancient work songs from the Balearic islands and the elevating music from the Middle East. The similarities found in these ancient songs and how they integrate with each other, opens up a whole world of musical fusion and the sharing of art and ideas. Listen to the very end where you will find Tomeu's grandmother Margalida Canaves Aixartell, singing Sa Tonada de Esterrossar, one of the ancient work songs from the Land of Mallorca.

In this episode Tara speaks to the lovely, highly cultivated, man of many interests, Deia artist and sculptor, Laurent Gardet. In their talk, we learn about the long history that Laurent's family has with Deia, his work as an architect and designer, and his passion for sculpture and land art. Laurent's understated and charming demeanor fronts a brilliant mind and a man of great talent.

In this episode, Tara speaks to a man who has a long and interesting history with a Michelin star rating, an excellent restaurateur, and a remarkable chef of the family run restaurant, Es Raco d'es Teix, located in Deia, Josef Sauerschell. She also has the pleasure of speaking with his wife and business partner Nori and their daughter Ines, this episode's translator, who grew up helping in the well loved restaurant. In their talk, we learn that the restaurant business is rigorous, fast paced, full of artistic creativity and that Josef and Nori have turned the art of fine dining into a lifestyle that can't be beat.

In this episode, Tara speaks to the high octane, natural born leader, entrepreneur, professional actress, dancer, business woman and the person who makes Mallorca that much more fun, Emma Boardman. In their talk, we learn about what it means to have a cultivated special surprise skill, that helps to push you to the next level of career, how imposter syndrome is built into success, and why it's so important to think out of the box. Emma's dynamic energy and intelligence, her unique approach to life, and her varied experiences, makes this a fun listen.

In this episode, Tara speaks to the music legend who played all over the world and the man who brought Jazz to Spain, Ramon Farran. In their talk, Ramon shares his long musical history with us, including the influence that Deia and Mallorca had on his musical career, his love of experimentation and taking chances with his music. From Miles Davis, to the Gypsy Kings, Ramon's passion for music has created a legacy for musicians and music lovers everywhere. A true lifelong artist, Ramon is an inspiration to music lovers.

In this episode, Tara speaks to a man who has mastered the art of living the expat life, an intellectual, a publisher of books, and one of Deia's finest characters, Lanny Aldrich. In their talk, we get to experience the lively nature of the heart of the village while sitting in Lanny's magical garden, surrounded by bougainvillea and a landscape that suggests a beautiful life. Lanny's eloquence and love for living well is nothing short of fun and inspirational.