Podcasts about Costa Rica

This episode will help you find inner peace through the practice of generosity. Dr. Diana Hill explores the concept of generosity, from personal stories to Buddhist teachings to modern science, revealing how giving freely can transform your mental and physical health. Diana highlights methods to cultivate generosity, empathy, gratitude, and awe, which can enhance your relationships and overall well-being. Tune in to learn practical tips on how to integrate these practices into your daily life and experience the flow of giving and receiving.Listen and learn:The three levels of generosity in Buddhism and their health benefitsScientific insights on how generosity influences attractiveness and social dynamicsPersonal experiences on the power of givingPractical tips to cultivate gratitude, empathy, and awe in daily lifeSuggested Next Episode:Episode 98: Savoring The Good: A Short Meditation With Dr. Diana HillRelated ResourcesGet enhanced show notes for this episodeOrder my book, Wise Effort: How to Focus Your Genius Energy on What Matters Most, and receive special bonus gifts.Want to become more psychologically flexible? Take Diana's "Foundations of ACT" course.Diana's EventsReserve your spot in Diana's Costa Rica retreat in 2026!See Diana at an upcoming eventConnecting With DianaSubscribe for free on Apple Podcasts and Spotify.Leave a 5-star review on Apple so people like you can find the show.Sign up for the free Wise Effort Newsletter.Become a Wise Effort member to support the show.Follow Diana on YouTube, Instagram, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Diana's website.Thanks to the team, Craig and Ashley Hiatt, and Benjamin Gould of Bell & Branch for your beautiful...

What if the dream trip starts feeling like a job? We sit down with traveler and author Melissa Rodway to unpack the real highs and lows of a life built on movement—starting with a wild childhood year in Western Australia, a no-guidebook leap through Europe in the 90s, and the pre-smartphone hacks that kept her safe and curious in Costa Rica.The story turns when she quits an advertising job and heads to Southeast Asia for months of motion—Thailand, Laos, Cambodia, Vietnam, and China—where gritty bus rides collide with occasional five-star stays. Melissa shares how travel fatigue sneaks in, why purpose is the antidote, and the moment a seasoned traveler taught her the hardest lesson of the road: know when to go home. Those long rides turned into pages, and pages into The People You Meet, a witty, honest travel book about culture, food, and the human dramas that follow you across borders.Then we switch gears to a slower kind of adventure: five winter weeks in Quebec City during her year off. Daily cross-country laps on the Plains of Abraham, ice skating under big skies, a Nordic spa two minutes from home, and the electric roar of Carnival with its ice canoe races on the St. Lawrence. We dig into the ice hotel, maple syrup snow taffy, tourtière, French schools for all levels, and why Quebec is built for outdoor lovers in every season—plus practical tips on walkability, ferries to Lévis, nearby trails, and affordable stays that make lingering easy.If you're craving travel that's deeper, steadier, and more you, this conversation is your map.Map of Quebec CityYou can find Melissa:On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/fly_travel_media/Her website at: https://flyrodway.comMelissa's book: The People You Meet BookSupport the showPlease download, like, subscribe, share a review, and follow us on your favorite podcasts app and connect with us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wherenextpodcast/View all listening options: https://wherenextpodcast.buzzsprout.com/HostsCarol Springer: https://www.instagram.com/carol.work.lifeKristen: https://www.instagram.com/team_wake/ If you can, please support the show or you can buy us a coffee.

Warning: the topic of suicide is discussed during this episode of The ModGolf Podcast. This is more than a story about golf; it's a story about how a single moment, a single community, a single purpose can pull someone back from the brink and empower them to save others. Listen to this full episode with Jonathan to discover: The Therapeutic Power of a Single Shot: Jonathan explains how the intense, fleeting focus required to hit a golf ball can break the cycle of traumatic "thought traps" and provide a unique form of mental therapy. Building a "Technical School" for Golf & Life: Learn about Jonathan's vision to create a comprehensive pathway for veterans and first responders. Not just to play golf, but to build careers in the industry as players, caddies, clubhouse staff, and agronomy crews. From Isolation to Community: Hear how the Warrior Golf Academy is intentionally designed to combat the #1 killer—isolation—by creating a tight-knit, supportive community that replicates the camaraderie of military and first responder teams. https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/h7dt0CoG.jpg Episode Chapters: (01:15) Introduction: The Transformative Power of Golf (01:54) Jonathan's Story Begins: A Descent into Darkness (07:24) The Turning Point: A Divine Intervention (10:23) The Road to Recovery: Costa Rica and a Return to Golf (13:50) The Birth of a Mission: Founding the Warrior Golf Academy (17:55) Discipline on the Course vs. the Battlefield (22:58) Filling the Gaps: A New Model for Veteran Support (27:05) Stories of Transformation: The Ripple Effect of Hope (31:45) Creating Community: Indoor Simulators and Local Events (34:05) The Ripple Effect on Families and Communities (37:12) The Future Vision: Scaling Hope and Building a "Golf Technical College" (41:39) A Message to Those Struggling: "You Are Not Alone" (43:22) How to Get Involved and Support the Mission Quotable Moments from Jonathan: On Purpose: "What people are looking for in this life is belonging and purpose. If you don't have those, then you don't have that will to want to live." On Golf as Therapy: "It's really just that extreme focus for the few seconds it takes to hit the golf ball and then you don't have to think about anything. It helps me get out of my own way." On His Mission: "My vision for Warrior Golf Academy is to reach at least one person and save their life. If I could do that, then everything I've done is worth it." Are you more of a watcher than a listener? Then enjoy our video with Jonathan on The ModGolf YouTube channel (https://youtu.be/Rse3sTSr-18). Click on this link (https://youtu.be/Rse3sTSr-18) or the image below to watch. https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/qZ4t9TVC.jpg (https://youtu.be/Rse3sTSr-18) Jonathan Sessa's bio page >> https://modgolf.fireside.fm/guests/jonathan-sessa Jonathan Sessa is a US Army veteran and the Founder & CEO of the Warrior Golf Academy, a nonprofit organization dedicated to saving lives and rebuilding purpose for veterans and first responders. His journey is a profound testament to post-traumatic growth. After his military service, Jonathan faced a profound period of darkness, grappling with the physical pain of service-connected injuries, the grief of personal loss, and the isolation that led him to the brink of suicide. His path to healing began with a powerful personal intervention and a transformative period in Costa Rica, where he rediscovered golf not just as a game, but as a therapeutic tool for mental wellness and a catalyst for his new mission. Driven by his own experience, Jonathan founded the Warrior Golf Academy to create the supportive community he found lacking. His vision extends far beyond teaching the golf swing. He is building a comprehensive "technical school" for the golf industry, providing veterans and first responders with the skills and connections to build careers as players, caddies, club managers, and agronomy staff. By focusing on belonging, purpose, and tangible career pathways, Jonathan's work directly combats the isolation that leads to the tragic statistic of "22 a day." Today, Jonathan leads a growing movement from the Academy's home in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. He is a certified PGA HOPE instructor and a passionate advocate for leveraging the game's unique disciplines—focus, patience, and incremental improvement—to rewire the mind and heal the spirit. His work ensures that those who have served their country have a welcoming community they can return to, proving that our deepest wounds can indeed become the source of our greatest purpose. Connect and Support the Mission You can learn more about Jonathan and the incredible work of the Warrior Golf Academy, including how to get involved, donate or access their resources at their website: https://warriorgolfacademy.com/ https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/YHhU7z-I.jpg (https://warriorgolfacademy.com/) If you or someone you know is struggling, please reach out for help. In the US, you can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. We also encourage you to reach out to Heads Up Guys for mental health resources, tools and support. https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/Ofm7iX5k.png (https://headsupguys.org/) Join our mission to make golf more innovative, inclusive and fun... and WIN some awesome golf gear! As the creator and host of The ModGolf Podcast and YouTube channel I've been telling golf entrepreneurship and innovation stories since May 2017 and I love the community of ModGolfers that we are building. I'm excited to announce that I just launched our ModGolf Patreon page to bring together our close-knit community of golf-loving people! As my Patron you will get access to exclusive live monthly interactive shows where you can participate, ask-me-anything video events, bonus content, golf product discounts and entry in members-only ModGolf Giveaway contests. I'm offering two monthly membership tiers at $5 and $15 USD, but you can also join for free. Your subscription will ensure that The ModGolf Podcast continues to grow so that I can focus on creating unique and impactful stories that support and celebrate the future of golf. Click to join >> https://patreon.com/Modgolf I look forward to seeing you during an upcoming live show!... Colin https://files.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/q_IZwlpO.jpg (https://patreon.com/Modgolf) We want to thank Golf Genius Software who have supported The ModGolf Podcast since 2019! Are you a golf course owner, manager or operator looking to increase both your profit margins and on-course experience? https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-uploads-2024/images/1/1ea879c1-a4a2-4e10-bea4-e5d8368a3c7a/K9NPjjAv.jpg (https://www.golfgenius.com) Golf Genius powers tournament management at over 10,000 private clubs, public courses, resorts, golf associations, and tours in over 60 countries. So if you're a golf professional or course operator who wants to save time, deliver exceptional golfer experiences, and generate more revenue, check them out online at golfgenius.com (https://www.golfgenius.com). Special Guest: Jonathan Sessa - Founder of The Warrior Golf Academy.

Reporte Urbano. Programa periodístico informativo en radio de interés general. Un recorrido por la actualidad con entrevistas, noticias, opinión, cultura, economía, información, sociedad, espectáculos, comentarios y política. Emisión Principal: Todos los viernes de 10 a 11 horas por AM 1010 y más de 50 retransmisoras en 8 países: España, Colombia, México, EEUU, Costa Rica, Chile, Uruguay, y todo el territorio argentino. Programa periodístico en radio de Roberto VILLALOBOS ATLAS, Cintia NEVES y equipo. 💥Víctor RODRÍGUEZ Transporte 💥Julio PARDO Deportes 💥Víctor LENNIN Psicología 💥Antonio FANÁ Espectáculos 💥Silvana RIDNER Nutrición 💥Walter TELECHEA Trabajo 💥Fabricio GUERRERO Operación Técnica 💥INDESANET Desarrollo Personal Declarado de Interés para la Comunicación Social de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires por la Legislatura Porteña. Distinguido por el Premio Latinoamericano "Señal Latina" y por el Premio Nacional "Reina Del Plata" en el rubro Programa Periodístico en Radio. Tags: #Información #Periodismo #Opinión #Actualidad #Entrevistas #Notas #Noticias #Radio #Secciones #Política #Economía #Niños #Infancia #Oyentes #Publicidad #Derecho #DDHH #Cultura #Educación #Vecinos #AyudaSocial #Solidaridad #Salud #Apoyo #Amor #Felicidad, #Efemérides #BolsaDeTrabajo #DadoresDeSangre #Campañas #Historias #Sorteos #Nacionales #Mundiales #Locales #Provinciales #Amigos #Compañeros #Horóscopo #Comunas #Barrios #Justicia #Porteño #Amigos #Lucha #AlienaciónParental #ObstrucciónDeVínculos #ImpedimentoDeContacto #Niñas #Niños #Adolescentes #Infancia #RadioOnLine #RadioEnLínea #RobertoVillalobosAtlas #VAconvos #ReporteUrbano #RadioOrión #CintiaNeves #Ciudad #BuenosAires #Podcast #Ivoox #Spotify #TuneIn #Itunes #Radio #Entrevistas #Nota #VillalobosAtlas #Ayuda

Reporte Urbano. Programa periodístico informativo en radio de interés general. Un recorrido por la actualidad con entrevistas, noticias, opinión, cultura, economía, información, sociedad, espectáculos, comentarios y política. Emisión Principal: Todos los viernes de 10 a 11 horas por AM 1010 y más de 50 retransmisoras en 8 países: España, Colombia, México, EEUU, Costa Rica, Chile, Uruguay, y todo el territorio argentino. Programa periodístico en radio de Roberto VILLALOBOS ATLAS, Cintia NEVES y equipo. 💥Víctor RODRÍGUEZ Transporte 💥Julio PARDO Deportes 💥Víctor LENNIN Psicología 💥Antonio FANÁ Espectáculos 💥Silvana RIDNER Nutrición 💥Walter TELECHEA Trabajo 💥Fabricio GUERRERO Operación Técnica 💥INDESANET Desarrollo Personal Declarado de Interés para la Comunicación Social de la Ciudad Autónoma de Buenos Aires por la Legislatura Porteña. Distinguido por el Premio Latinoamericano "Señal Latina" y por el Premio Nacional "Reina Del Plata" en el rubro Programa Periodístico en Radio. Tags: #Información #Periodismo #Opinión #Actualidad #Entrevistas #Notas #Noticias #Radio #Secciones #Política #Economía #Niños #Infancia #Oyentes #Publicidad #Derecho #DDHH #Cultura #Educación #Vecinos #AyudaSocial #Solidaridad #Salud #Apoyo #Amor #Felicidad, #Efemérides #BolsaDeTrabajo #DadoresDeSangre #Campañas #Historias #Sorteos #Nacionales #Mundiales #Locales #Provinciales #Amigos #Compañeros #Horóscopo #Comunas #Barrios #Justicia #Porteño #Amigos #Lucha #AlienaciónParental #ObstrucciónDeVínculos #ImpedimentoDeContacto #Niñas #Niños #Adolescentes #Infancia #RadioOnLine #RadioEnLínea #RobertoVillalobosAtlas #VAconvos #ReporteUrbano #RadioOrión #CintiaNeves #Ciudad #BuenosAires #Podcast #Ivoox #Spotify #TuneIn #Itunes #Radio #Entrevistas #Nota #VillalobosAtlas #Ayuda

Bring a Friend, Save $200 @ Michael's New Year's Meditation Retreat in Costa Rica:  https://events.agapelive.com/awaken-to-a-new-year-of-possibility/  After a profound spiritual awakening, Gugu is learning to love her fundamentalist Christian family as they are—yet struggles to comfort them during crises without betraying her own soul's knowing. How can she be truly compassionate when the language of her heart no longer matches their doctrine? Next, Becky wants to believe in God beyond the "man in the sky," but wonders how to pray to "a vibration"—and whether such a Presence can really answer. How can she really know what God is and how to reach It?  Finally, Michael leads a powerful meditation in the sacred silence that leads to inspired thoughts and 'real thinking.' ✍️Love Take Back Your Mind? This podcast grows through your support. If you've been inspired by an episode, we'd love to hear from you! Consider leaving a 5-star review or drop a comment. It helps others join this journey of growth and connection

What if the missing link in your longevity plan isn't another metric but your intuition? Krista Williams (Almost 30, Morning Microdose) joins me to unpack what actually makes a women's retreat transformative, how to spot the line between self-improvement and self-rejection, and the feminine path back to intuition, ease, and long-term vitality. If you felt the pull toward intentional community and body-led living, join my women's retreat in Costa Rica (March 2026). Bring your whole self; I'll bring the science, the softness, and the container.  Tune in, share this with a friend, and start practicing intuitive longevity today. WE TALK ABOUT:  11:05 – What turns a retreat from "nice trip" into real transformation 16:00 – Retreat fears: "Will I have to blow up my life?" 19:35 – When optimization becomes obsession and how to course-correct 27:35 – Naming narcissistic dynamics and reclaiming your agency 29:55 – Supporting friends in messy seasons without losing yourself 34:25 – Redefining success in relationships beyond other people's stories 37:45 – Balancing masculine drive with feminine ease in biohacking 40:30 – Community as the mirror that brings you back to yourself 44:05 – Intuition vs. fear: How each actually feels in the body 53:45 – The courage to be uniquely you in life, online, and onstage SPONSORS: Join me in Costa Rica for Optimize Her, a 5-night luxury women's retreat in Costa Rica with yoga, healing rituals, and biohacking workshops—only 12 spots available. Feeling bloated, tired, or hormonally off? Try BiOptimizers — supplements that actually absorb and work for women's health. Get 15% off at bioptimizers.com/biohackingbrittany with code BIOHACKINGBRITTANY. RESOURCES: Trying to conceive? Join my Baby Steps Course to optimize your fertility with biohacking. Free gift: Download my hormone-balancing, fertility-boosting chocolate recipe. Explore my luxury retreats and wellness events for women. Shop my faves: Check out my Amazon storefront for wellness essentials. Join my private community. Live longer. Feel stronger. Thrive fully. Krista Williams' website and Instagram Almost 30 website and Instagram LET'S CONNECT: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook Shop my favorite health products Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music

Editorial.El Informe Estado de la Nación 2025 vuelve a poner sobre la mesa una verdad incómoda, pero necesaria: Costa Rica atraviesa un momento decisivo, un punto de inflexión en el que los avances institucionales, sociales y ambientales de décadas conviven con señales de deterioro que ya no pueden ignorarse. Este capítulo de sinopsis sintetiza con claridad las tensiones que atraviesan al país: la persistencia de brechas sociales, la desconfianza creciente en las instituciones, el debilitamiento de la gobernabilidad democrática y los desafíos asociados al crimen organizado, la desigualdad y la sostenibilidad ambiental.#larevistacr @larevistacr www.larevista.cr

Are you thinking of recruiting for a school in Latin America? If so, how much do you know about the region? In this episode we learn a great deal about Latin America by interviewing Mark Webber of the Webber's Ed recruiting agency. Mark answers lots of questions like, “When is the main recruiting season? What are some of the less-tangible benefits of working in Latin America? And what is school life like?”  Mark Webber began his career in education as a Theatre, Debate and Public Speaking teacher in Texas and moved into international education in 2001 after backpacking the route of Che Guevara throughout South America. He has taught IB Theatre and served as a Director of Fine and Performing Arts in Venezuela, Malaysia, Sudan, and Mexico, where he decided to start his own consulting company, which quickly turned into a boutique recruitment company for international schools in Latin America in 2012/13.Mark has continued his teaching of Debate and Public Speaking as the founder of the Mexican Debating league, coach of Team Mexico for the World Schools Debating Championships (2011-2017) and owner and operator of an online Debating Academy. Since leaving Mexico, he has lived in Colombia and Costa Rica and is now back in Mexico, living in Chiapas with his lovely wife, who is a Head of School, and their two little dogs. Webber's Ed-Teacher Talent has been named the Best International Schools Recruitment Agency for Latin America every year since 2019, except for 2022 when no award was given.Our guiding question for this show was: “What does recruiting for schools in Latin America entail?”Some of the topics covered include:Approaching your Latin America recruitment focusing on individual schools and countriesSome commonalities to school lifeSalary and benefit packagesNuts and bolts of recruiting in Latin America TrendsLots of “under the hood” insights!Resources Mentioned in the Episode: Webber's EdBlog Post - Why Do Educators Come to Latin America?Connect with Mark on LinkedInThis episode was recorded on October 27, 2025.Categories: Recruiting | School Life | Travel | Finances Remember to access our Educators Going Global website for more information and consider joining our Patreon community at patreon/educatorsgoingglobal!Email us with comments or suggestions at educatorsgoingglobal@gmail.com Follow us on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram or YouTube.Listen on your favorite podcast app: connect from our share page.Music: YouTube. (2022). Acoustic Guitar | Folk | No copyright | 2022❤️. YouTube. Retrieved October 11, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YOEmg_6i7jA.

Good afternoon, I'm _____ with today's episode of EZ News. Tai-Ex opening The Tai-Ex opened down 87-points this morning from yesterday's close, at 27,816 on turnover of $7.7-billion N-T. Taiwan ranks top in Asia and 7th in world for internet freedom Taiwan has once again been rated the freest country in Asia for internet use and seventh globally in the latest Freedom on the Net report released the US-based Freedom House. The report assessed internet freedom in 72 countries between June 2024 and May 2025. It measures obstacles to access, restrictions on online content, and violations of users' rights. Taiwan had a score of 79 out of 100 and that was unchanged from last year, reaffirming (再次肯定或加強。) its status as one of the most open online environments in the world. Japan placed eighth with 78 points. The list was topped by Iceland with a score of 94 - while Estonia, Chile, Costa Rica and Canada rounded out the top five. China and Myanmar remained at the bottom of the list with scores of 9. Trump-Epstein relationship in spotlight ahead of key vote on files Donald Trump's relationship to late-sex offender Jeffrey Epstein is still under scrutiny ahead of key vote that could release more files. The House of Representatives is expected to vote to compel the Justice Department to release all the evidence (證據) it has, but the files may not see the light of day. As Nick Harper reports from Washington. Russia Launches Attack on Kyiv Russia has launched a massive attack on Kyiv, causing fires and scattering debris across the city. Local officials report at least 11 people were injured, with five hospitalized. The attack continues today, prompting officials to urge residents to stay in shelters. City authorities warned of possible power and water outages. The strike came as European Union officials warned this week that Ukraine must continue to crack down on corruption following a major graft scandal that has put top nuclear energy officials under scrutiny (受到審查). But they also offered assurances (保證) that aid will continue to flow as Kyiv strains to hold back Russia's invasion. Borso D'Este Bible on Display in Italy One of the most spectacular examples of Renaissance illuminated manuscripts is going on rare public display as part of the Vatican's Holy Year celebrations. The 15th century Borso D'Este Bible is known for its miniature paintings in gold and lapis lazuli (青金石). It was unveiled Thursday in the Italian Senate, where it will remain on display until Jan. 16. It is usually kept in a safe at a library in Modena and is rarely exhibited publicly; it was transported to Rome under heavy security. The Bible was created between 1455 and 1461. It will remain behind humidity-controlled plate glass while in Rome, but visitors can “read” it digitally via touch screen displays featuring ultra-high-resolution images. That was the I.C.R.T. EZ News, I'm _____. AI 不只是科技，更是投資的新藍海 ?? 您還沒上車嗎? 11/22下午二點，由ICRT與元大投信共同舉辦的免費講座 會中邀請理財專家阮幕驊和元大投顧分析師及專業團隊 帶你掌握「AI 投資機會」 加碼好康！ 只要「報名並親臨現場參加活動」 就有機會抽中 全家禮券200元，共計5名幸運得主！ 活動地點：台北文化大學APA藝文中心--數位演講廳（台北市中正區延平南路127號4樓） 免費入場，名額倒數中!! 立即報名：https://www.icrt.com.tw/app/2025yuanta/ 「投資一定有風險，基金投資有賺有賠，申購前應詳閱公開說明書」 #AI投資 #元大投信 #理財講座 #免費講座 #投資趨勢 #ETF -- Hosting provided by SoundOn

Le public ayant toujours de bonnes questions, voici les échanges que nous avons après l'interview avec la salle, pour approfondir la question de l'amour inter-culturel.Enregistré en public à l'Alliance Française de Pereira, le 6 août dernier, cet épisode fait partie de ma tournée latino-américaine. Pendant six mois, je voyage en famille avec Crush dans mon sac à dos, enregistrant en live des histoires d'amour interculturelles au Mexique, au Guatemala, au Salvador, au Costa Rica et en Colombie. Sur scène, des couples franco-latinos-américains racontent leur rencontre, entre chocs culturels et quiproquos linguistiques.Ce projet est soutenu par l'Institut Français, sous tutelle du Ministère de l'Europe et des Affaires étrangères et du Ministère de la Culture, qui soutient à travers le monde la promotion de la langue française, la circulation des œuvres, des artistes et des idées et favorise ainsi une meilleure compréhension des enjeux culturels.À l'origine de cette tournée : l'Alliance Française de Medellín, en Colombie, moteur engagé du dialogue culturel entre la France et l'Amérique latine.Crush est le podcast qui explore la magie des premiers jours des histoires d'amour, la rencontre amoureuse, pour t'aider à comprendre et vivre mieux tes émotions et relations amoureuses. Il y a mille et une façons d'aimer, et je compte bien toutes les montrer.

On today's Morning Espresso, we go around the corner from everywhere as World Cup dreams burn bright across the globe. From a solemn and emotional night in Paris as France marks the 10th anniversary of the 2015 attacks, to the electric, combustible atmosphere in Guatemala where a nation chases its first-ever World Cup berth, the stakes have rarely been higher.We break down the clinching scenarios across UEFA, the pressure on Cristiano Ronaldo in Dublin, Italy's push for momentum, Croatia's showdown with a fearless Faroe Islands, and the wide-open chaos in Group H. Then it's over to Concacaf, where Jamaica, Honduras, Panama, Costa Rica, and Guatemala face make-or-break nights with everything on the line — plus the latest from Africa and Asia as playoff paths tighten.We'll also dive into MLS' looming structural overhaul, NWSL's continued expansion with Atlanta's 2028 club now official, global transfer ripple effects, San Lorenzo's crisis, and a busy slate of Women's Champions League action.World Cup roads twisting everywhere — and every dream still alive.This is Morning Espresso.

Honduras y Jamaica llegan a la penúltima fecha de la eliminatoria de Concacaf con la posibilidad de clasificar para el Mundial de Norteamérica 2026. Escucha el resumen deportivo de este jueves 13 de noviembre 2025.

PURA VITA in Costa Rican means "PURE LIFE". I just spent a week in the mountains of Costa Rica with my two brothers, preaching Sunday's service. God is at work in Costa Rica. I pray that you are blessed by this episode. Reason for Truth is partnering with Rancho Costafalo as we move forward in spreading the Gospel and EQUIPPING the body of Christ in this beautiful country.Please SUBSCRIBE to our channel as a simple way of supporting us. We greatly appreciate that.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/reason-for-truth--2774396/support.This episode includes AI-generated content.

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Have a question or comment for Pastor Plek or one of his guests. Send it here.374: A 15-minute walk into a Venezuelan church changed everything. Manny grew up in Iran with loving, educated parents, a strict culture, and a head full of questions no one would answer. Kickboxing and Muay Thai gave him structure; wrestling shaped his base; but joy in worship—clapping, singing, smiling—gave him a first taste of freedom. That brief encounter set him on a path through Damascus, deep into Costa Rica, and eventually into a life built around language, resilience, and the mats. His perspective on freedom isn't theoretical; it's earned, layered, and fiercely protective.If you crave a story that blends courage, immigration, entrepreneurship, and the quiet miracles that show up when you're almost out of options, this one will stay with you. Subscribe, share this episode with a friend who needs hope, and leave a review telling us: what does freedom feel like to you?Text your questions to us at 737-231-0605 or visit pastorplek.com. We talk faith, culture, and everything in between.Like, share, and subscribe! We love seeing and responding to your reviews and comments.Support the show: https://wbcc.churchcenter.com/givingSupport the show

Summary: Ants are such diverse organisms that extremes have evolved. Join Kiersten to learn about some ant extremes.   For my hearing impaired followers, a complete transcript of this podcast follows the show notes on Podbean   Show Notes:  “Tales from the Ant World” by Edward O. Wilson Music written and performed by Katherine Camp   Transcript (Piano music plays) Kiersten - This is Ten Things I Like About…a ten minute, ten episode podcast about unknown or misunderstood wildlife. (Piano music stops)   Kiersten - Welcome to Ten Things I Like About… I'm Kiersten, your host, and this is a podcast about misunderstood or unknown creatures in nature. Some we'll find right out side our doors and some are continents away but all are fascinating.  This podcast will focus ten, ten minute episodes on different animals and their amazing characteristics. Please join me on this extraordinary journey, you won't regret it. In this penultimate episode I thought we'd talk about the extremes of ants. The fastest, the slowest, the fiercest, and maybe a few more. The ninth thing I like about ants is the extremes. Edward O. Wilson studied ants for his entire life, give or take a few years when he was still in diapers, and that was 92 years. He discovered species we didn't know about and described ant behaviors that boggled our human minds. It is no surprise that he included some of the extremes of ant life in his writings.  Something I had no idea about when I decided to pick ants as my next topic was that each species of ant has it's own tempo. Not unlike music, this is the speed at which worker ants get things done. Some colonies are speedy as a tornado and others are as slow as molasses in winter, but they all get the job done. Each tempo fits the niche that a specific species fills in their habitat. Sometimes fast wins the race while other times slow persistence fairs better.  The fastest ants on Earth may very well be the workers of the genus Ocymyrmex. There are 34 known species in this genus and are found in most of eastern and southern Africa. Their chosen habitats are hot, hot, and hotter. Ocymyrmex, or swift ants, have streamlined bodies with very long legs attached with thick segments at the base. The mandibles are narrow and fit tightly against the head when folded. Their spiracles, air holes through which they breathe, are large. Ocymyrmex are built to be sprinters.  On a trip to Gorongosa National Park in Africa, Edward Wilson came across a colony of Ocymyrmex and wanted to grab a few for the Harvard University Lab. By this time in his career he'd caught a lot of ants, so he was well versed in the best ways to snatch a few specimens. The first obstacle he had to overcome was the extreme heat emanating from the mud flat on which the ants were running. It felt like a stove top, so kneeling down to catch some ants was going to be a challenge, but he was up for it. He positioned himself above the workers, readied his forceps, and caught not one single ant. The workers were just moving too fast. He could barely follow them with his own eyes much less grab them with forceps. A quote from his book Tales from the Ant World, “The ants were moving like a sizzle of water droplets in a frying pan, difficult even for the eye to keep track.” End quote. Those are some fast ants! Ocymyrmex are made for sprinting but another ant, which is a double extremist, is made for marathons. Ants in genus Cataglyphis are long-distance runners and Cataglyphis bicolor is one of the most heat tolerant animals known to western science. These ants live in the Sahara desert and are mainly scavengers. They search for dead insects and other arthropods that have succumbed to the heat of the desert to dismantle and bring back to the nest.  Cataglyphis bicolor can withstand temperatures up to 158F,  or 70C, but they must keep moving. If they stop, they fry. Talk about a good reason to keep moving. Let's look at the opposite side of tempo, the slowest ants in the world. Ants in genus Basiceros are as slow as ants can get without dying. These ants are found in Central and South America. They are not well studied and; therefore, poorly understood. The main problem is they are incredibly difficult to find. If you can't find it, you can't study it.  What we do know is Basiceros ants are medium in size and rely on their camouflage to survive. Their opaque brown color closely matches the fallen leaves and mold in which they live. They do hunt for food and like any other slow moving predator they are ambush predators. They simply wait for prey to come to them, lunge, strike, and seize it. They will stalk prey, as well, just at a very slow pace. If they are discovered by something, or someone, uncovering their hidden pathways under the leaf litter they freeze and will remain still for minutes at a time to protect themselves. Edward O. Wilson says of them, “Their tempo may be as slow as an ant species can employ and still survive.” End quote. The Basiceros ants are also an extremist twofer. They are the slowest ants and also the dirtiest ants, which may be a linked trait. When Edward Wilson stumbled across some Basiceros in Costa Rica and transferred a colony to Harvard to study, they realized that the brown color of the ants wasn't just camouflage to blend in with the dirt, it was dirt. The bodies of these ants are covered in coiled and feather-shaped hairs that essentially collect dust and debris. They use the dust and debris to hide amongst the leaf litter.   The colony of Basiceros studied at Harvard demonstrated this in an unexpected way. At the university, the colony that was brought back and housed in tunnels made of plaster of Paris. Within several weeks of living in the man-made tunnel the ants had turned white! They had replaced their dirt colored garments with the white plaster of Paris so they could blend in with their new habitat! For the last extreme we will discuss lets's look at timidity and fierceness, both serve ants well in different situations. Dolichoderus imitator is probably the most timid, or least offensive, ant in the world. This small ant lives in the Amazon rainforest of South America. Most colonies typically consist of a few hundred workers and a rarely seen queen. They nest in random cavities of decaying leaf litter and do not set up permanent colonies. If they are disturbed, by person or predator, they scatter in all directions. Nothing seems to be directed; although, they do pause long enough to pickup the closest larva or pupa to take with them. The individuals will shelter in any covered place they find nearby waiting for the danger to pass. The colony will reconvene in another random clump of leaves elsewhere. Maybe the transience of their nests breeds timidity for survival reasons.  On the other side of the coin is fierceness. There are several candidates for the fiercest ants in the world. Our first candidate is the bull ants from Australia. They are in the genus Myrmecia and the largest workers are the size of hornets. They nest in craters of soil and are not intimidated by any creature that comes near, including something as big as a human. Edward Wilson has seen them lock their large eyes onto an animal simply walking by the nest. Sentries will turn and watch and if you come close, they walk toward you. If they catch you, you will regret it. When the interloper makes the correct decision to leave, they follow up to 10 meters, or 32 feet, to make sure you don't come back.  Bull ants are pretty scary due to their size, but ants that live in symbiosis with a specific bush or tree are even scarier, especially if you come in contact with them in their home. The guardian ant, Pseduomyrmex triplar, are found in palo alto trees common in Colombia. In 1770 Jose Celestino Mutis happened upon these ants in an unpleasant encounter. He paused under a palo alto on a hot sunny day and quickly found himself covered in red ants that were continuously stinging him. There were so many and they were stinging so fiercely that he had to remove all of his clothes and jump into the nearest body of water.  Edward Wilson gives his vote for most ferocious ant to the tree-dwelling Amazon ant Camponotus femoratus. These ants are also know as the epiphyte garden-ants. They live in the trees and use soil and vegetable detritus gathered from the ground and surrounding branches to build spherical ant-gardens around certain species of epiphytes. Epiphytes are plants that grow on the surface of another plant but does not harm the host plant. The ants' nest is held together in part by the roots of the epiphyte. A quote from Edward Wilson's book Tales from the Ant World tells us all we need to know about why he voted these as the fiercest ants in the world. Quote, “When I turned and walked downwind toward the colony, a swarm of workers erupted almost instantaneously. As I came closer, but still without touching the nest, the defenders went berserk. Piling up on top of one another, they reached out toward me with the abdomens of many pointing in my direction and spraying a cloud of formic acid.” End quote. I see what he voted the garden ants as the fiercest ants in the world! There are many more extremes in the ant world, but I have already gone over time for this episode. I'm glad you joined me for my ninth favorite thing about ants, their extremes.  If you're enjoying this podcast please recommend me to friends and family and take a moment to give me a rating on whatever platform your listening. It will help me reach more listeners and give the animals I talk about an even better chance at change.  Join me next week for another exciting episode about ants.        (Piano Music plays)  This has been an episode of Ten Things I like About with Kiersten and Company. Original music written and performed by Katherine Camp, my very own piano playing hero.

What if your emotions, habits, and even your worldview are simply the result of where you've trained your mind to go? In this thought-provoking episode of The Greatness Machine, Darius sits down with Hindu priest, entrepreneur, and former monk Dandapani for a powerful conversation about awareness, energy, reincarnation, and emotional mastery. Dandapani explains how most people live life unconsciously, letting their awareness drift into anger, distraction, or fear—when in truth, we can train our awareness to dwell in peace, gratitude, and purpose. In this episode, Darius and Dandapani will discuss: (00:00) Introduction and Reconnection (04:12) The Journey to Monastic Life (09:37) Understanding Reincarnation and Past Lives (17:31) The Mind and Awareness (22:47) The Power of Unwavering Focus (25:07) Navigating the Mind Mansion (26:46) Awareness vs. Mind: A Parent's Lesson (29:14) Harnessing Anger: A Double-Edged Sword (32:04) Reincarnation and Historical Patterns (36:20) The Cycle of Anger and Energy (41:23) Teaching Resilience to the Next Generation (47:17) Finding Purpose Through Self-Reflection (51:41) The Challenge of Stillness and Self-Discovery (56:49) Accepting Ourselves: The Journey of Self-Compassion (01:02:56) Elevating Consciousness in Leadership (01:09:56) Overcoming Barriers to Greatness   Dandapani is a Hindu priest, entrepreneur, and former monk who spent ten years in a traditional monastery under the guidance of Satguru Sivaya Subramuniyaswami. Blending ancient Hindu wisdom with practical modern tools, he helps people cultivate focus, discipline, and self-mastery. His book “The Power of Unwavering Focus” has been translated into 23 languages, and his teachings have reached audiences worldwide, from entrepreneurs to global organizations like Nike and Bloomberg. He currently lives in Costa Rica, where he's creating a 33-acre spiritual sanctuary dedicated to reflection and transformation. Sponsored by: Indeed: Get a $75 sponsored job credit to boost your job's visibility at Indeed.com/darius. Shopify: Start your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/greatness. Brevo: Head over to brevo.com/greatness and use the code greatness to get 50% off Starter and Standard Plans for the first 3 months of an annual subscription. Masterclass: Get 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/DARIUS. Connect with Dandapani: Website: https://dandapani.org/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dandapanillc/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DandapaniLLC/  Book: https://www.amazon.com/Power-Unwavering-Focus-Dandapani/dp/0593420454  Connect with Darius: Website: https://therealdarius.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariusmirshahzadeh/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/imthedarius/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Thegreatnessmachine  Book: The Core Value Equation https://www.amazon.com/Core-Value-Equation-Framework-Limitless/dp/1544506708 Write a review for The Greatness Machine using this link: https://ratethispodcast.com/spreadinggreatness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Bring a Friend, Save $200 @ Michael's New Year's Meditation Retreat in Costa Rica:  https://events.agapelive.com/awaken-to-a-new-year-of-possibility/ Today, Michael welcomes Dr Espen Wold-Jensen. Dr Espen is a researcher in Neuroscience and Quantum Physics, a Conscious Business Mentor, and a Multi 7-Figure 'SoulPreneur' who teaches his clients how to use the power of their own consciousness to turn obstacles into opportunities. Dr Espen went from having two broken legs and nearly succumbing to a hospital infection to healing himself from the inside out. His signature event, the Quantum Experience, delivers the same art, science, and application of consciousness that has transformed the lives of clients in over 12 countries. Conversation highlights: -The Accident That Changed Everything: The emotional suppression that led to a 2006 motorcycle crash, broken femurs, spine/pelvis fractures, and a long recovery -"Go Home and Breathe:" A moment of grace: receiving an inner directive to leave the hospital and start a specific breath practice, leading to the beginning Quantum Breathwork -You Are the Healer: How innate intelligence heals; while medicine supports, inner sovereignty and practice restore wholeness -Turning Pain Into Power: Reframing past hurts with purpose and gratitude; change the meaning, change your life -Quantum Explained Simply: We are 99.999…% "empty space"; our attention collapses possibility into form—when we raise our frequency, we change our outcomes -The Alchemy of Emotion: Transmuting fear?love, guilt?gratitude, shame?self-worth, grief?grace to heal relationships and reality -Emotional Healing Protocols: "Issues in the tissues"—clear lower-frequency emotions to shift habits and health -Out of Survival, Into Sovereignty: Media conditioning and fear states, and reclaiming executive function and heart coherence -Childhood Imprints & Programs:  The first 7 years wire beliefs about money, love, safety; you don't have "problems," you have programs -Inside the 3-Day Curriculum: Descent (past), Presence (truth), Ascent (future design) across eight centers; and more! Finally, Michael leads a guided meditation on focusing our intention + attention.

Coffee can be both a tool and a toxin, depending on how it's grown, prepared and used. In this episode, I take a closer look at caffeine and coffee through a practical lens — what science says, what I've experienced, and what really determines whether that morning cup helps or harms you. Caffeine blocks adenosine, which makes you feel less tired and can improve focus and performance. I've noticed that benefit myself when coffee happens to precede a workout, though I've also learned the hard way that more isn't better. Once, before a 100-meter race, I overdid it with caffeine pills and ended up jittery and nauseous — proof that even biohacks have limits. For most people, moderate coffee consumption can support alertness and provide antioxidants that are otherwise missing from a typical Western diet. But caffeine doesn't create energy — it just masks fatigue. It can raise cortisol, interfere with deep sleep, and build dependency if you rely on it to function.  That's why I now drink coffee for the ritual and enjoyment, not as a crutch. My cutoff is late morning, around 10 or 11 a.m., because even if I fall asleep easily, caffeine too late still reduces slow-wave sleep and recovery. What's changed most for me is the kind of coffee I drink. Many conventional beans are contaminated with pesticides, glyphosate, mold, and mycotoxins such as ochratoxin A, which may be why some people feel worse after drinking coffee.  My wife and I wanted something cleaner, so we started sourcing beans from a small regenerative farm in Costa Rica — hand-harvested, sun-dried, and lab-tested for over 300 pesticides, mold and toxins (all of which came back zero). That coffee became Terra Lava, and it reshaped my view of what "healthy" coffee can be. The key is intention: drink less but better, choose purity over convenience, and see coffee not as stimulation but as connection and ritual. Learn more: Subscribe to Terra Lava Coffee and enjoy 10% off every delivery — fresh, toxin-free beans straight from our Costa Rican farm to your door: https://terralava.com/collections/all 18: What I Eat in an Animal-Based Diet + My Go-To Food Choices and Supplements: https://www.primalshiftpodcast.com/what-i-eat-in-an-animal-based-diet-my-go-to-food-choices-and-supplements/ In this episode: 00:00 Introduction: The coffee debate 01:15 The benefits of coffee and caffeine 03:09 The downsides of coffee consumption 07:46 The hidden toxins in coffee 11:07 Discovering clean coffee: A personal journey 13:33 Introducing Terra Lava Coffee 15:31 Tips for enjoying coffee responsibly 20:52 Conclusion: Coffee as a ritual and connection Find me on social media for more health and wellness content: Website: https://michaelkummer.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MichaelKummer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/primalshiftpodcast/ Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/michaelkummer/ Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/mkummer82 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/realmichaelkummer/ [Medical Disclaimer] The information shared on this video is for educational purposes only, is not a substitute for the advice of medical doctors or registered dietitians (which I am not) and should not be used to prevent, diagnose, or treat any condition. Consult with a physician before starting a fitness regimen, adding supplements to your diet, or making other changes that may affect your medications, treatment plan, or overall health. [Affiliate Disclaimer] I earn affiliate commissions from some of the brands and products I review on this channel. While that doesn't change my editorial integrity, it helps make this channel happen. If you'd like to support me, please use my affiliate links or discount code. #Coffee #OrganicCoffe #ToxinFreeCoffee  

Austin and Amit get together for a full preview of a high-stakes set of World Cup Qualifiers. First, the guys try to make sense of CONCACAF, where big favorites Panama & Costa Rica face pressure from upstarts like Suriname, Honduras, and Guatemala. In UEFA, drama looks to center around a big Denmark-Scotland matchup while the jostling for the final playoff spots should provide plenty of drama. The show closes out with a look at the playoffs in Africa and Asia, where tickets to the ICP Last Chance Saloon hang in the balance.

Need any advice or information, message us.We sit down with property investor and life coach Jake Rieke, who made the bold decision to relocate his family — including two teenage daughters — to Costa Rica in 2024. Jake shares what inspired the move, how the transition has unfolded, the challenges they've faced, and what the education system is really like for expat families. We also delve into the investment analysis he conducted before investing in property in Costa Rica.Free 15 min consultation:  https://meetings.hubspot.com/jake806/crconsultContact us: info@investingcostarica.comJake Rieke: https://www.brilliantlifejourney.com/

Akasha J. Smith, PhD is the founder of School of Awakening which offers The Professional Intuitive Healer Certification Program and Transformational Retreats in Bali and Costa Rica. She's been Teaching,  facilitating Intuitive Healing sessions, Transpersonal Counseling and Past Life Regressions for people around the world for more than 20 years. She also offers Akashic Records Readings and Channeled Awakening Transmissions.One of her favorite parts about the work is watching people's hearts, bodies, minds and souls open to the connection and lives they've been so deeply longing for. When someone is ready and really shows up, true healing simply happens. With that can come a freedom unlike anything else that is absolutely beautiful to witness…another human shining.Akasha's Soul Purpose is to Help People Remember and Be Who they Truly Are. She does this through teaching, healing and creative expression. She is Deeply Passionate about Teaching Intuitive People, even if they Doubt their Abilities, how to Become Professional Healers, Heal Themselves and Awaken. Akasha has taught everything from Human Development Psychology to Creativity Enhancement and Dance to How to Connect with your Spirit Guides.She taught Mindfulness Meditation in Naropa University's Graduate Transpersonal and Contemplative Psychology Counseling Programs. Akasha researched Passionate Engagement for her Doctorate in East West Psychology at The California Institute of Integral Studies. She has a Masters Degree in Psychology from The Institute of Transpersonal Psychology with specializations in Teaching, Education & Research and Creative Expression. Akasha graduated from Naropa University with a Bachelor's degree in Contemplative Psychology and minors in Traditional Eastern and Healing Arts and Improvisational Dance. She also trained in The Clairvoyant Program at Psychic Horizons Institute and The Colorado School of Transpersonal Counseling and Hypnotherapy where she became an internationally certified hypnotherapist. She completed her yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India and has studied traditional dance in Bali, Thailand, Hawaii and Spain.Akasha is a best-selling contributing author of Activate Your Life and just finished contributing to a 2nd book on Awakening Experiences and their impact on daily life. She was the co-author of a Transformation from Trauma study which was published in the peer-reviewed academic journal, The International Journal of Transpersonal Psychology.When Akasha isn't helping people Become Counselors and Healers and Leading Retreats, she's Creating Lightcode Art, Writing Poetry or Traveling the World Solo studying Dance, Healing and Yoga. https://www.schoolofawakenedliving.com/

Can a spa director also be a systems thinker, a creative artist, and a human performance strategist? In this episode, Arnaud Dieutegard, Senior Director of Wellness, Spa & Retail at Four Seasons Costa Rica, shares how he's reimagining resort wellness, from creative leadership and culturally rooted experiences to peak performance programs grounded in science. Listeners will hear how one property is using data, design, and disciplined creativity to move beyond "amenities" and build a truly transformational wellness ecosystem for guests. Arnaud traces his journey from a wellness-focused childhood in France to leading multi-property spa operations for Four Seasons, outlining how the role of the spa director has evolved into a strategic, revenue-driving position. Along the way, he unpacks new models in sleep health, retreat design, performance diagnostics, and the subtle art of teaching guests to listen inward instead of endlessly chasing external fixes. What You'll Learn: How the spa business has shifted from "nice-to-have" amenity to strategic, performance-driven revenue center in luxury hospitality Why today's therapists must act as wellness experts, guiding guests with personalized education, not just delivering treatments How Four Seasons Costa Rica blends ancestral healing practices with modern technology to create memorable, differentiated guest experiences A behind-the-scenes look at Peak Performance programs, including MRI, bloodwork, sleep analysis, and lifestyle interventions designed for long-term change Practical insights into creative discipline, how structure, time-blocking, and constraints can actually unlock innovation for spa leaders and wellness entrepreneurs Episode Highlights: 01:10 – What does a Senior Director of Wellness, Spa & Retail actually do across multiple Four Seasons properties? 07:45 – From hippie upbringing to Ayurveda, Chinese medicine, and tuba: how early influences shaped Arnaud's view of holistic wellness 16:30 – The evolution of the spa director role: from "just keep guests happy" to driving revenue, strategy, and innovation 24:05 – Designing memorable spa concepts by merging ancestral rituals with modern technology at Four Seasons Costa Rica 32:50 – Inside the Wellness Chalet and wellness villa: building retreat-style experiences within a luxury resort environment 41:20 – How the Peak Performance program uses diagnostics and lifestyle intervention instead of quick-fix "biohacks" 48:40 – The Sleep Box: a curated toolkit for travelers that turns any room into a personalized sleep lab 55:15 – Discipline, creativity, and inner listening: Arnaud's prediction for the future of wellness and hospitality Meet the Guest: Arnaud Dieutegard is the Senior Director of Wellness, Spa & Retail at Four Seasons Costa Rica, where he oversees on-property operations and supports multiple Four Seasons spas across the Americas. With a background that spans aesthetics, holistic therapies, music, and hospitality leadership, Arnaud is known for designing wellness concepts that are financially sound, culturally authentic, and deeply human.   Tools, Frameworks, or Strategies Mentioned: Cluster Wellness Leadership Model – Supporting several Four Seasons properties with shared expertise, concept development, and operational insight Ancestral + Tech Integration Framework – Designing experiences that pair local rituals (cacao, Ayurvedic and Chinese influences, Costa Rican ingredients) with modern modalities and devices Wellness Chalet & Wellness Villa Retreat Model – A contained, retreat-style environment inside a resort, where guests follow a pre-designed, stress-free wellness program Peak Performance Program – A high-touch, data-driven lifestyle intervention that includes: Pre-arrival MRI, blood panels, and at-home sleep study On-site coaching and analysis with a human performance physician Personalized supplement and habit recommendations Six months of post-stay follow-up with a multidisciplinary clinical team Sleep Box Toolkit – A curated sleep optimization kit including a continuous-measurement sleep ring, red-light panel, breathing tools, blue-light blockers, masks, and travel-friendly accessories Creative Discipline Framework – Time-blocked "creative workshops," constraints-based creation (like limiting instruments or colors), and structured routines that allow innovation without chaos Closing Insight: At its core, this episode is about shifting wellness from "more" to "meaningful." Arnaud reminds us that the next wave in hospitality isn't just about bigger menus or more technology, it's about teaching guests to notice their own cues, trust their bodies, and integrate what they learn after they go home. As he puts it, real transformation happens when discipline, creativity, and inner listening finally align.   Looking for expert advice in Spa Consulting, with live training and online learning?   Spa Consulting: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-consulting Live Training: wynnebusiness.com/live-education Online Learning: wynnebusiness.com/spa-management-courses   Other Links: Connect with Arnaud Dieutegard: linkedin.com/in/arnaud-dieutegard   Follow Lisa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisastarrwynnebusiness, Listen on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/at/podcast/starrcast/id1565223226 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/00tW92ruuwangYoLxR9WDd Watch the StarrCast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wynnebusiness Join us on Facebook: facebook.com/wynnebusiness/?ref=bookmarks Join us on Instagram: instagram.com/wynnebusiness

In this episode, our friend Kevin tells us his wonderful story of when he arrived in Costa Rica from Canada 35 years ago.

An Angel For Bishop: Part 4 A Criminal Investigation Exposes Powerful Alliances. But Willow Becomes Free & Legal. In 4 parts, based on a post by BurntRedstone. Listen to the Podcast at Steamy Stories. Dan pulled the keyboard towards him and banged out a quick email to Kira with the measurements and the details of where to get the secure credentials. He maintained an online repository for such details and he knew she had the credentials to access that. Once that was sent he pushed back his chair and stood up with Willow in his arms. She snuggled her face into his neck. He carried her into the kitchen and checked on the timer for the pizza. It was almost ready. Dan walked over to the kitchen table and set Willow down on a chair. She seemed reluctant to let go but when he asked her to she did immediately. He set the table and poured some drinks. The oven chimed and he took the pizza out. He ran the cutter over the pizza to ensure the slices were separated and brought it over to the table setting it between them. "If there are any toppings you don't like feel free to pick them off," he said. Apparently Willow had a lot of experience with pizza so Dan was free to just watch her devour slice after slice. Finally she pushed back from the table and rubbed her tummy which showed just the slightest bump. Dan tidied up and wrapped up a few sliced that were left over. These would be good for her mid-morning snack tomorrow. It was still early so he asked Willow if she'd like to see a movie. She got a strange look in her eye which Dan wasn't able to interpret but she nodded hesitantly. Dan grabbed the tablet PC and pulled up the listing of movies they had on the house server. He thought he would start out really light. He had no idea what she liked or what kind of movies she had been exposed to. This would be a good experiment. He took her hand and led her through the living room grabbing up the blanket they'd left on the couch. Once they were comfortably seated on their recliners in the theater room he used the tablet to activate the projector. She watched the screen with some hesitancy until she saw it was an animated film about dogs. She glanced over questioningly. "Have you ever seen 'Lady and the Scamp'?" he asked She shook her head, eyes wide and riveted to the screen. Dan leaned back and enjoyed the movie. He especially enjoyed watching the innocence in Willow's face as she became thoroughly involved with the story. He saw her delight, her tears, and once heard her laugh out loud before she clamped her hand over her mouth and looked at him nervously. He only smiled so she turned back to the film. When it was over she was looking at him and practically vibrating with excitement. He smiled and gestured for her to come closer. She leapt from her chair and climbed onto his to smother his face with kisses. "So you liked that?" he chuckled. She nodded vigorously with a big grin on her face. "I'm going to read in bed before I go to sleep. I suppose we should discuss sleeping arrangements," he said. Willow looked a little nervous. "From the fact that you snuck into my bed this afternoon, may I assume you would prefer to not sleep in your own room? I want you to know that I won't be offended, hurt, angry, or disappointed if you would like to have your very own room and sleep in your own bed. I respect your need for privacy and personal space. I also want you to know that the offer for having your own room will always be there even if you don't choose to do it right away." Willow's voice got really quiet. "May I stay with you?" "Yes," he simply said. She beamed at him and rubbed her body against his. He could feel himself responding so he sat up and lifted her to her feet. They walked out of the theater and made their way back to the master bedroom. He put new sheets on the bed and dug out a long t-shirt Willow could use for pajamas. He was going to run out of clothes himself if he had to share so much of this wardrobe with her. He slipped off his clothes and stepped into some shorts he slept in. When he turned back Willow was in the t-shirt and had her dirty clothes in her arms. They put their clothes in the bin and brushed their teeth together, an activity which seemed to delight Willow. Soon they were tucked into the bed, he reading the news from his tablet and she stretched out against his side. Dan managed to read for an hour before his eyes grew weary and he put the tablet away. He slipped down under the covers and Willow snuggled in after looking at him for permission. He'd have to work on that. Then they drifted off. Chapter 4 Dan arranged with Wally to do some deliveries for him. His friend was also delighted to hear his best buddy had found some female companionship. The pilot made two separate drops over three days, the first being extra groceries to tide them over until spring thaw and the second was the clothes for Willow. Kira really came through with the shopping spree and Willow was set. So many beautiful outfits and some seriously sexy underwear. Willow delighted in trying them on for Dan to see and he delighted in taking them off. She enjoyed that too. A few weeks later Andrei got back to Dan to say his investigator was having some difficulty following the cold trail but was still working on it. The people in question had lived secretive lives and even the information on their deaths was often limited. Officer Duncan called back and said that the Fed's would wait for Dan and Willow to come in for an interview. Dan worked on two projects for customers during those months and was very pleased with his productivity. While Willow was often a distraction and a delightful one, he was far more focused when he was working. His clients were very happy as well. He determined that she needed a hobby. She was fascinated when he built prototypes for his projects in the metalworking shop so he started teaching her how to work with metal, including welding. She showed an immediate aptitude for it and began building small sculptures with pieces of scrap metal as practice. Once he was confident that she understood and followed all of the safety precautions he would leave her to her creating and go back to his work. She wouldn't stay away from him for long though. She'd pop her head in to see him every 30 minutes or so and the anxious look would slip from her face when he smiled her way. The next few months flew by. Dan kept up the calorie and nutrition rich diet for Willow, combined with some light exercises and she responded very well. Soon the gauntness left her features and her curves began to fill out. Sooner than he expected the winter months passed and the snows began to recede. Spring rains began in earnest and did their best to wash away the rest of the snow. Dan received notification from the highway patrol that the mountain road would officially open in a week. This gave him time to make preparations and setup appointments with the various government officials in the city to begin the process of building Willow a new identity. Andrei had gotten back to him with the disappointing news that his investigator had been unable to identify Willow's mother. There had been a surprising number of unidentified dead Jane Doe's in the rough geographic area and time frame the investigator had been given. There was a good possibility that the woman had been renting her apartment on a cash basis from the original owners so there were no records. There were no work records they could trace back either so he'd reached a dead end. Dan sat down with Willow to discuss next steps. They sat on a couch in the living room before the fireplace watching the flames dance across the logs. He asked her how she wanted to proceed. Willow just asked him what he thought she should do. She had no emotional connection to her past. What she'd gone through had scoured that away. Dan held Willows hands as he looked into her eyes and felt himself falling into their depths. She'd become such an important part of his life over the past few months. He'd come to the realization that he could no longer see his life without her in it. He was still dealing with his PTSD though the flash back episodes were less frequent now than they'd ever been. Dan was amazed that this beautiful, damaged woman could make his own broken mind feel so strong and complete. "I've set up some appointments to get you identity documentation so we can get you a passport so you can travel with me. It hinges on your having a name." "My name is Willow," she smiled at him and he felt his heart skip. He really did love this woman! "If you would have me, I would like you to be Willow Bishop. Will you be my wife?" he asked holding his breath. Willow's eyes went large and her mouth opened in surprise. Tears welled up in those beautiful eyes and she flung herself against his chest as the tears burst forth. "Yes! Oh, yes!" she wailed. They clung to each other and shared tears and kisses, both feeling more complete than they'd ever felt apart. Once they'd got control over their tears they sat back on the couch holding hands and watched the fire. "Normally I'd present you with an engagement ring but there's a shortage of jewelry stores in this neighborhood," Dan said, smiling. "You don't need to buy me a ring," Willow whispered, still in shock over Dan's proposal. "Yes I do and you will have the most lovely and dazzling ring we can find but it's still going to pale next to your beauty," Dan insisted. She snuggled into his arm and purred. The following week was especially warm for spring. They climbed into the Jeep for the first time since he'd rescued her from the cliff. They made their way carefully down to the road and drove to the city. Willow had no memory of her first time through this route as she'd been in a far worse physical and mental state on that trip. Their first errand was to meet with the police and the Feds. He'd made arrangements in advance so they were expecting them. Dan and Willow were ushered into a conference room where they sat holding hands. Two men entered the room shortly after them. Officer Duncan was a big man. Peppery hair cropped short and broad shoulders with a barrel chest, he looked like he'd be better fit as a lumberjack than wearing a suit in an office. The man next to him was so average your eyes would pass over him on the street and not even register he was there. Grey suit, brown hair, medium height and build, regular features, he was a study in neutral. Officer Duncan introduced him as Special Agent Joel Gregson. The only thing that seemed off character was the dainty gold pinkie ring the man wore. For some reason it raised the hairs on the back of Dan's neck. An Agent Pays A Price For Corruption. After the introductions were made, Dan gave his statement about Willow's rescue to the two men. Duncan recorded the statement and asked questions. Gregson sat quietly, watching. Mostly watching Willow in Dan's opinion. The man was creepy but he supposed working on the violent gang task force probably did that to a person. Exposed to so much horror and violence, some of it had to leak in. Willow was obviously picking up on it as well as she moved closer to Dan and clung to his hand. Finally, Dan had had enough. "Excuse me, Agent Gregson. Would you please stop staring at Willow. She's had enough of that in her life and it makes her very uncomfortable," he said firmly. "I'm not sure what you mean," the man said with an emotionless voice. Dan felt her grip on his hand tighten. Duncan had picked up on the vibe as well and was uncomfortable with the federal agent too. "You read the history report Dan sent us. The woman was traumatized." The agent just looked at Duncan and looked away. "If you've finished with Mr. Bishop I would like to interview 'Willow' about what she saw and heard during her time with the Blood Brothers. Alone." Dan's hackles went up when Gregson said her name. "That's not going to happen. If you want to ask her questions you're free to do so, but I will be here for her support and protection." "Protection? You really think you're up to that task? I've read your file. You're a mental gimp. Load on the pressure and you crack. How are you going to single handedly protect her from the Chula Vista Chapter of the Blood Brothers? When they learn you've killed one of theirs and stolen one of their bitches-" he sneered. Dan surged to his feet and Duncan grabbed his arm. "You will not refer to Willow with that term." Duncan turned an angry glare at the Fed. "And how would the Chula Vista Chapter come into possession of that information. I noted you said when not if ." Gregson examined his nails and shrugged. "Information is so difficult to contain these days," he said. "Not really Agent. That information will not leave my files so the only possible leak would have to come from you, wouldn't it?" Duncan growled. "The only truly secure files are those involved in active investigations. Where witnesses actively assist Agents in building solid cases against the criminals." He looked straight at Willow with a greasy smile. "So basically you're telling us we give you what you want or you leak the information to the gang," Dan growled. Officer Duncan stared at the Agent with a thunderous rage building. "I'm saying nothing of the sort. Those aren't my words," the agent said with a false look of innocence. "You've been working too long with the worst sort of people Agent Gregson. We can no longer distinguish you from them. We're done here. Come on Willow, the air is tainted in here," Dan said with a look of disgust. She was immediately at his side and followed him out. Gregson admired the view as she left. Duncan shook his head and left to speak with Dan before he left. "Mr. Bishop! I'm so sorry about that. I had no idea the FBI would send such a scumbag. You were right, he HAS been undercover too long. I'll speak with my Captain about this." Dan leaned in to the officer. "I think what bothered me most was that the guy gave off the impression that he wanted to be the next name on Willow's list of Masters. The list is dead. She's no longer a slave." "Yeah, I got that impression too. Creepy," the officer shuddered. "Thanks! You know where to find me if you have any more questions," Dan said and walked out of the precinct with Willow who was trembling. Once they were back in Dan's Jeep he turned to her. "Willow, I'm so sorry you had to be exposed to that creep." "Maybe I should have spoken with him alone? Then he wouldn't tell the gang where to find you?" she whispered. "Agent Gregson doesn't have any humanity left in his soul. I could see it in his eyes. I seriously don't believe he wanted to help you or wanted assistance in a case. I believe he wanted to own you and I swore to protect you from that. Do you trust me?" Dan asked. "Yes!" she gasped. "Do you love me?" he asked gently. "Yes!" she gushed. "I love you and I want us to get married so let's go do that!" he smiled and she gave him a dazzling smile back. They made their way to the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration office. He had arranged an appointment today to review the paperwork he'd submitted for Willow. He had no idea how long it would take them to do their own investigation. It turned out that the Immigration woman had worked some miracles. Willow now had official government documentation identifying her as U.S. citizen, Willow Smith. Dan had raised an eyebrow at the surname but the woman just quirked a mysterious smile and stamped the document to make it legal. They stopped by the local jewelry shop and picked up some simple wedding bands that fit and Dan picked out a stunning engagement ring. There was a large, brilliant diamond in the center surrounded by smaller but equally brilliant diamonds in a circular pattern. Willows eyes were wide with shock at the size and beauty of the ring and she began to tremble when he dropped to one knee in the store. He had to make it official. "Willow, will you marry me?" he said looking into her eyes which were filling with tears. She nodded rapidly as she was unable to speak. He slipped the ring on her trembling finger and took her in his arms. She kissed him and cried with joy. The sales clerks and a few customers all cheered and Willow's cheeks hurt from how broadly she was smiling. Dan paid for the rings and promised to return to get the engagement ring resized. Next they'd visited the Justice of the Peace for a quick ceremony and they were legally married. The paperwork was submitted and soon Willow Smith would be Willow Bishop on paper as well. Then he'd apply for her passport. After all, they had a honeymoon to plan. Willow had never been as happy in her life. She clung to her husband's arm as they left the building. Husband! She never contemplated that she'd ever use that word for herself. Dan turned to her and smiled. "Now for the really glamorous side of marriage; we get to go grocery shopping!" he grinned. Willow giggled, a sound rarely heard from her but she just couldn't help herself. "We'll have our honeymoon soon but for now we need to stock up on some items for the house," he said. At the grocery store Dan ran a practiced eye over the shelves and filled the cart with the necessities. Willow pushed a cart of her own and they soon filled them both. They paid and loaded the bags into the jeep. As they pulled out of the parking lot they missed the tan sedan slipping out of the lot behind them. Chapter 5 It didn't take long for Dan and Willow to unload the jeep and put away the groceries. Dan got dinner started then he scooped his wife over his shoulder and rushed into the bedroom as she grinned madly. He laid her out on the bed and she beamed up at him. "Hello, wife." Dan said with a smile. Willow's eyes brimmed with tears of joy and she held her arms up to draw him down onto the bed with her. Dan knelt next to her then lowered his body over her slowly, drinking in her beauty with his eyes. Willow grabbed his shoulders and pulled him down the final inches so she could kiss him. The kiss was sweet and slow at first; the caressing of lips and just the lightest of touches with the tips of their tongues. This inflamed their need and soon their mouths were eagerly pressed together. Their passions exploded as Willow slid her tongue deeply into his mouth. Dan returned her kiss with equal fervor. He slid his right hand up the side of her body from her thigh to her breast and gently tugged at her nipple. She gasped into his mouth and kissed him just a little harder. Dan sat up and undid Willow's pants. He tugged them off then quickly slid her panties down and off as well. Willow arched her back in reaction and cried out. He stroked her again and again and each time Willow's voice grew louder and her body arched up to meet him more. His tongue pressed deeply into her. Willow screamed as her orgasm gushed from her. Her body thrashed as wave after wave rushed through her senses. When Dan noticed she was twitching from her over sensitivity he pulled back and let her come down from her bliss. Her face was covered in a sheen of sweat from their exertions, she panted and her eyes were rolling but he was completely enraptured by her. Even, no, particularly when she was in her most raw state she was beauty personified. Her eyes finally opened and she looked at him with a heat he hadn't seen before. She grinned and pushed him onto his back. She tugged his pants and underwear. She gave herself a moment to admire it.  He felt himself getting harder until it felt like iron. Dan gasped and would have sat up in reaction but her hand was outstretched in preparation and forced him down onto his back. She slowly pulled back until she was able to get a deep breath. The sensation was unbelievable. She repeated this again and again and Dan was moaning with the intensity of it and quickly losing control. Suddenly she pulled off and gasped to catch her breath. Willow climbed up his legs and positioned herself above him. Dan's eyes shot. He looked up at her face and saw the intense. "Easy, Willow. If it hurts we don't have to do this." he said to her. She smiled at him without opening her eyes. Dan was losing his mind in the incredible. She pulled off her blouse and undid her bra and tossed them aside. She pulled his hands to her and he knew what she wanted. It had taken him some time to come to terms with the idea that she needed a little. While he wanted to show her tenderness, sometimes she needed him to take his pleasure from her and squeeze her flesh harder than he normally would. Sometimes those touches would add a little pain to her experience. For her, it was the secret ingredient. Her orgasms would be far more powerful and afterwards she was extra attentive and loving, her eyes shining. He knew she trusted him beyond all measure and she needed it. Now she pressed his hands against her, and looked into his eyes with need. Willow's mouth dropped opened and her eyes closed as she made little gasping noises. She was close. Dan began to gently bounce and she began to whimper. Willow threw her head back. She screamed and began to convulse as the enormity of her orgasm took her muscle control away. She slumped forward against him and he released her tender nipples so they could press against his chest. Willow cooed and gasped against his neck as her body clenched and shook. He grabbed her ass and cried out. Then she moaned and rubbed her tits back and forth across his chest. Dan took Willows head in his hands and kissed her deeply. He felt her trembling and she moaned into his mouth as aftershocks rolled through her nerves. He pulled back and they panted against each other's necks. "Oh my god, Willow! That was intense!" he gasped. She just snuggled tighter to him, crushing her big tits against his chest.. He ran his hands over her back and down to her ass. She trembled under his hands and she kissed his neck. "I love you, wife," he said quietly and felt her tremble. Willow pushed up to look down into his eyes. "I love you, husband," she whispered back to him. Dan's face split into a huge smile. These rare times when Willow opened up were precious to him. He pulled her down and kissed her tenderly. They snuggled for a little longer then they got up to get cleaned up for dinner. Dan walked into the kitchen. Willow skipped into the room and hugged him from behind. He squeezed her arms then noticed they were missing the breadstick they'd picked up for dinner. "Willow, can you check the car to see if the breadstick is still in the trunk? I think it fell out of the grocery bag," he asked. She nodded and skipped down the hall to the garage. Dan pulled the roasting pan out of the oven and set it on the stove top. He lifted the lid and smelled the delicious roast beef he'd made. He reached forward and turned the oven off and saw a reflection on the glass front of the stove. He looked over his shoulder. Glass shattered and the first bullet struck his right shoulder and spun him around. Two more bullets struck his torso knocking him across the kitchen to slam up against the wall where he slumped to the floor. More glass shattered as Agent Gregson enlarged the opening in the patio door so he could reach in and unlock it. He pulled it open and crossed the kitchen to look down at the crumpled body. "Gimp," he snorted then looked down the hall towards the garage where he'd seen his reward head. He slipped silently down the hall, peering into each bedroom, ensuring Willow wasn't hiding in them. He ducked into the master bedroom but she wasn't there either. He heard an odd pop sound followed by a hissing roar and rushed back out into the hall. He saw the door leading to the garage was open but the lights were off. He slipped to the edge of the open door and peered inside. At the far end of the room he saw an acetylene torch burning. It was clamped in place to some kind of abstract metal sculpture. The torch was the only source of light in the room. He cautiously made his way down the length of the room looking in the shadows. He knew she was in here but where? As he got closer to the sculpture he saw its scale. It was made of hundreds of small pieces of scrap metal all welded together into the shape of a huge wave cresting. It was at least twelve feet tall, eight feet wide and five feet deep. It was also full of sharp jagged points. While he wasn't an art lover by any stretch he saw the raw beauty in this piece. He had no idea why the torch was clamped to it roaring out its scorching flames. Glancing around he moved forward to turn off the torch. There was a loud pop behind him and he spun to look directly into the jetting flames of a second acetylene torch Willow was holding in his face. He screamed and reeled back swinging his gun wildly. He fired blindly three times. He heard no cries of pain or fear. He listened as keenly as he could with the gun stretched out in front of him until he heard a whooshing sound. There was a sharp tug at his right wrist then came a searing pain as his hand separated from his wrist. Before he could scream a cold metal blade sunk between his ribs to rest just above his heart. A man's body was pressed against his and a mouth pressed close to his ear. "Willow will never be a slave again." came a hoarse growl. Trembling with fear Gregson gasped. "You can't be alive! I shot you three times!" "I've died enough in this life. It's time for me to live." With that Dan twisted the knife to slice through Gregson's aorta. The agent made a brief whimpering sound as he collapsed at Dan's feet. Dan stumbled back then he sunk to his knees. Willow was immediately at his side. "First aid kit on the wall there. Pack the wounds then tape gauze to them. Then go to the safe room and call Wally on the satellite phone. The number's on the wall. Tell him what happened. Get Gregson's cell and give it to Wally when he gets here. I'm probably going to pass out soon. You'll be okay. Wally will take care of you. Get started. Now." Willow leapt into action. He was so proud of her. Then he slipped into darkness. Epilogue Wally sat on the lounge chair and watched Willow playing in the surf. He couldn't believe how lovely this woman was. Sometimes it seemed surreal. The other woman playing in the surf with her also took his breath away but there was something about Willow... "Ah! You fucker!" Wally gasped as icy slush splashed across his stomach. "Oh! Sorry dude! Bottle still had some ice clinging to it! You did say bring me a cold one!" Dan chuckled. "Very funny. Gimme my beer." Dan laid himself out on the lounge chair next to his best friend and watched his wife splashing in the water. There was a look of true happiness on the woman's face as she enjoyed the waves. He'd promised Willow a honeymoon and she was getting it. The beach front house on the Pacific shore of Costa Rica was his little slice of heaven. What better place to bring an angel? She must have felt him watching as she looked up the beach and waved at him with a brilliant smile. He waved back. Their honeymoon had to wait for him to recover in the hospital after Wally had airlifted him from the property. The Feds had been all over the place after one of their own was killed on the property but the home's surveillance footage clearly showed the agent's attempted murder. Dan was cleared of all charges and received a nice settlement from the agency for his troubles. He was just glad the creep was dead. In suspicious but possibly unrelated news, only days after the shooting all active members of the Blood Brothers gang died a horrifying fiery death when an unknown party air dropped a large fuel air bomb over the Chula Vista headquarters. Every member of the gang had all gathered at the remote roadhouse in preparation for a massive road trip up to a certain mountain community. There were no survivors. Of course Wally knew nothing about this as he was taking a commercial flight down to Costa Rica at the time... according to the flight manifest and security camera footage at least. Dan's recovery mystified the doctors. The gunshots he'd sustained should have killed him but he somehow pulled through. They'd never seen such a strong will to live. Dan just knew he had to protect his wife. She'd seen enough pain and sorrow in her life. She needed as much happiness as he could give her to compensate for those hellish early years. Combined with the wounds he'd taken in the war his scarring rivalled Willows. Also, there was something in Dan's eyes now that made would-be rivals for Willow take one look and run. She was finally safe. He relaxed back against the lounge and soaked in the hot sunlight. He was just beginning to doze when his body was covered with a cold, wet, but soft weight. Large tits squeezed against his chest as Willow's mouth found his. Her tongue was deep in his mouth and he chased it with his own. "Hey! Get a room you two!" Wally joked, and then yelped as the dark-skinned beauty whom Willow had been swimming with, dropped on top of him to get kisses of her own. Willow pulled back from the kiss and smiled over at Wally. She rolled off of Dan and tugged him to his feet. He willingly followed as she guided him back to the house. "Try to keep it down this time. You're disturbing the local howler monkey troops!" Wally yelled then found his mouth otherwise occupied . Dan and Willow grinned back at their friends as they climbed up the stairs to the roof top deck where their beautiful cabana was situated. The ocean breeze blew through the white privacy curtains keeping the interior refreshingly cool in the hot sunlight. Willow tugged the ties on her bikini and let them fall to the decking as Dan dropped his swim trunks. They stepped under the spray of the shower next to the cabana and quickly rinsed off the salt water, sweat and lotion. Willow dragged Dan back into the shelter and pushed him onto the bed inside. Dan smiled at her aggressiveness as it was such a huge leap from how she'd behaved when he'd first found her in that blizzard. The difference was love. He loved her with every fiber of his being, and she knew it. She'd given love before but she'd never felt it in return, until him. She was finally at ease to open herself completely to someone. No fear of judgement or cruelty. Just love. She still needed him to be rough for her to reach those mind-blowing, world-shaking releases, but she felt completely safe in his hands. As for Dan, he felt complete for the first time since he'd come back from the war. Strangely, the flashbacks were rare since Gregson's attack and the depth of Willow's love did amazing things for his self-esteem. She was wiggling her body over his and he grabbed her ass and squeezed it hard. She moaned and looked at him with need in her eyes. He knew where she wanted it and how rough it had to be. He rolled her onto her back and kissed her deeply, and she groaned and squirmed under him. Her stomach muscles were twitching as an orgasm roared through her. Dan flipped her onto her stomach and ran his slick fingers over her. She grunted loudly as this was a first for her and Willow cried out and thrashed. Dan pulled away suddenly and she moaned and looked back. She saw him running his slick fingers and she was making unintelligible sounds. Her cheeks grew red. She was making little whining sounds as she approached her peak. Dan was rapidly turning up the heat. He flipped Willow onto her back. She squealed in surprise. Willow's face flushed and her mouth opened as she raced towards her orgasm. Just as she crested, her eyes rolled back in her head as her body went into convulsions as he growled his pleasure. He looked down at the beautiful woman and saw her loving smile beaming back up at him. "I love you, wife," he said quietly. Her eyes welled with tears of joy. "I love you, husband," she whispered back. Based on a post by BurntRedstone for Literotica

11-10-25 Joe returns from Costa Rica & New Mexico United makes club history as they move onto the Western Conference Finals

Cada año, Costa Rica recibe millones de turistas de todas partes del mundo. Se ha posicionado como un destino seguro para admirar belleza natural sin igual y disfrutar de un estilo de “pura vida”. Pero últimamente, el país también ha atraído a cientos de personas buscando sanación con medicinas ancestrales indígenas. Y en agosto del 2024, un incidente expuso una cara turbia de lo que pasa en esos retiros espirituales. En nuestro sitio web puedes encontrar una transcripción del episodio. Or you can also check this English translation. ♥ Vivimos tiempos difíciles. Somos un medio sin ánimo de lucro, y nuestra permanencia depende de oyentes como tú. Si valoras nuestro trabajo, únete a Deambulantes, nuestras membresías. Ayúdanos a elevar las voces latinas y narrar la experiencia de nuestras comunidades. Tu aporte se invierte directamente en nuestro trabajo periodístico y hace toda la diferencia. ★ Si no quieres perderte ningún episodio, suscríbete a nuestro boletín y recibe todos los martes un correo. Además, los viernes te enviaremos cinco recomendaciones inspiradoras del equipo para el fin de semana. ✓ ¿Nos escuchas para mejorar tu español? Tenemos algo extra para ti: prueba nuestra app Jiveworld, diseñada para estudiantes intermedios de la lengua que quieren aprender con nuestros episodios. Every year, Costa Rica welcomes millions of tourists from around the world, eager to admire its unparalleled natural beauty and enjoy a “pura vida” lifestyle. But lately, the country has also attracted another kind of tourist too: hundreds of foreigners seeking healing with ancestral indigenous medicines. And in August 2024, a tragic incident revealed a dark side of these spiritual and wellness retreats.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Welcome back to another episode of School Counseling Simplified! Today, I'm taking you behind the scenes of successful small groups and sharing how to set them up for success. We'll talk about how to engage your students, keep sessions organized, and measure their progress with ease. Small groups are a key Tier 2 intervention and an important part of a layered approach to student support. In this episode, you'll learn everything you need to know to start and lead small groups with confidence. How to Set Up Counseling Groups Identify students using referrals, previous counseling data, or needs assessments. Choose group size (4–6 students is ideal) and keep age and behavioral needs in mind. Plan for 6–8 sessions, around 30 minutes each, and consider holidays or school events when scheduling. Set up a welcoming group space with privacy for journaling and reflection. Send home permission slips and coordinate schedules with teachers. Organize your materials: individual folders, crafts, worksheets, sign-in sheets, and a group folder with rules and games. Keep a digital spreadsheet or counseling log to track attendance and progress. How to Lead Engaging Small Groups Begin each session with group rules and a feelings check. Focus on what students should do rather than what they shouldn't. Incorporate icebreakers like bingo, Jenga, "sides of the room," or Simon Says to build connection and teamwork. Introduce your main concept with a mini-lesson, video, or poster. Use interactive activities like role play, crafts, flipbooks, sorting games, or discussion cards. End with a journal reflection or quick self-assessment to encourage personal growth and track student progress. By creating structured yet flexible small groups, you can provide meaningful support and help students grow socially and emotionally. Resources Mentioned: Join IMPACT Connect with Rachel: TpT Store Blog Instagram Facebook Page Facebook Group Pinterest Youtube   More About School Counseling Simplified: School Counseling Simplified is a podcast offering easy to implement strategies for busy school counselors. The host, Rachel Davis from Bright Futures Counseling, shares tips and tricks she has learned from her years of experience as a school counselor both in the US and at an international school in Costa Rica. You can listen to School Counseling Simplified on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google Podcasts, and more!  

Nuestro invitado en el episodio #329 de Máximo Desempeño es Juan Mario Gutiérrez, director y fundador de Kajuyalí, un visionario que está revolucionando la educación en Colombia. Después de ser expulsado de varios colegios no por falta de capacidad sino porque el sistema no conectaba con él, Juan Mario convirtió su mayor frustración en su propósito de vida. A los 22 años conoció Robin Hood Camp en Estados Unidos y esa experiencia lo encaminó. En 1992 fundó Kajuyalí, un modelo innovador de campos de verano que saca a los niños de su zona de confort para llevarlos a descubrir lo mejor de ellos mismos en lugares maravillosos de Colombia. Juan Mario es mi primo hermano. Parte de una familia que ha sido fundamental en mi vida: sus papás Mario y Ceci, que dejaron una huella imborrable, y sus cinco hermanos, todos especiales en mi recorrido. El camino fue difícil. El país vivió momentos de seguridad complicados. Juan Mario quebró. Se reinventó. Operó en Ecuador, Guatemala y Costa Rica. Se cayó muchas veces y siempre volvió a levantarse. Tras la pandemia, después de más de dos décadas de experiencia, decidió llevar la idea de Kajuyalí a la educación formal y fundar un colegio, integrando metodologías de Finlandia, Italia y Estados Unidos adaptadas al contexto colombiano. Vive bajo un lema que lo define perfectamente: "¿Por qué hacerlo fácil si difícil también se puede?". Además, Pablo profundiza en "Being You: La Ciencia de Ser Tú", una reflexión transformadora basada en el trabajo del neurocientífico Anil Seth. Descubre por qué todo lo que experimentas -cada color que ves, cada sonido que escuchas, cada sensación que sientes- es una "alucinación controlada" creada por tu cerebro, cómo tu cerebro no es una ventana pasiva al mundo sino un visionario sofisticado que hace predicciones constantes sobre la realidad, y por qué tu sentido del "yo" -esa sensación íntima de ser tú mismo-, es también una construcción brillante de tu cerebro. Aprende la diferencia crucial entre estar atrapado en una versión fija de ti mismo y entender que puedes trabajar conscientemente con los procesos de tu cerebro. Descubre por qué cuando entrenas tu mente para crear mejores modelos de predicción -a través de visualización, práctica mental o cuestionando creencias limitantes- estás literalmente cambiando tu realidad, y cómo tus limitaciones autopercibidas, tus miedos y tu identidad son construcciones que puedes influenciar conscientemente. Un episodio que te desafiará a preguntarte: ¿Qué excusa has estado usando para no perseguir ese cambio que sabes que necesitas hacer? Si tuvieras la certeza de que vas a quebrar varias veces antes de lograr construir algo duradero, ¿seguirías persiguiendo esa visión? ¿Estás luchando contra tu mente o entendiendo cómo funciona realmente para trabajar con ella? Tu conciencia no es un problema que resolver, es tu herramienta más poderosa para crear la experiencia que deseas.

From hairy fruit to child rescue, today's Kingdom Culture Conversation certainly runs the spectrum!Lonney Moore is a missionary with Hope Partners, an international, worldwide ministry enterprise that focuses on placing change-makers into communities wherein poverty takes many different forms.  While financial poverty is the sort that most of us imagine when we think of the needs within developing nations, the truth is that poverty can be spiritual, moral, and more.  Today, Lonney walks us through what that looks like specifically in Costa Rica.As well, we discuss what happens when you place a Northwest Christian High School student right in the midst of it all...For more information on Hope Partners, please follow this link.To learn about Northwest Christian School's unique partnerships through the Build Here, Build There campus improvement plan, please click here."Kingdom Culture Conversations" is a podcast created through Frameworks, a Biblical worldview initiative of Northwest Christian School.For more information on Frameworks, please visit: https://frameworks.ncsaz.org/For more information on Northwest Christian School, visit: https://www.ncsaz.org/To reach out to Geoff Brown, please email gbrown@ncsaz.org or you can reach him by cell phone: (623)225-5573.

El martes 28 de octubre en Río de Janeiro, la llamada Operación Contención contra la organización delictiva Comando Vermello dejó al menos 121 muertos (incluyendo 4 policías) y un número de heridos que según la fuente consultada oscilan entre 6 y 100. Las acciones de este tipo en las inmensas favelas de Brasil son habituales, no así la cantidad de fallecidos que ha generado una intensa polémica social y política, dada la cantidad de civiles inocentes que fueron víctimas del fuego cruzado que produjo la acción, según la organización no gubernamental Human Rights Watch, dirigida al parecer a asesinar (no a capturar) a los 48 líderes delincuenciales de un comando que tiene 40 mil efectivos y que controlan el inmenso territorio compuesto de dos villas miseria donde no está presente el Estado. Por eso la gran interrogante ahora para los 250 mil habitantes es quiénes serán los que controlarán el territorio. Mueren jefes y mandos medios y surgen otros. Siempre es así. Esa es parte de la cruda realidad de la nación carioca, en la que los expertos estiman que el 10% de la población vive bajo los términos de la gobernanza criminal. Y ese es (guardando las proporciones) también el espejo del crimen transnacional organizado de América Latina en este siglo XXI. Aquí en Costa Rica, exactamente una semana después, el martes 4 de noviembre, se llevó a cabo la Operación Traición en la que participaron 1,200 agentes del OIJ, el Ministerio Público y la Judicatura. El megaoperativo más grande en nuestra historia, tuvo epicentro en el Caribe Sur y repercusión en otras zonas del país. Fue una acción limpia. Sin muertos ni heridos. Con al menos 28 detenidos, y decomisos de bienes por unos 2,000 millones de colones entre propiedades, vehículos, embarcaciones y hasta un hotel. Así nuestra policía desarticuló la que al parecer era la primera banda de narcotráfico costarricense con control total de gestión operativa, desde la compra de la droga, el transporte, almacenamiento, reventa, colocación en Europa y Estados Unidos así como el lavado de los activos, También abastecía de mariguana y crack todo el mercado local. Esta era la banda de los hermanos Grijalba, alias Schock (detenido en Londres) y alias Nogui. Ambos esperando procesos de deportación a Estados Unidos. ¿Es posible acabar con esta poderosísima espiral de muerte y destrucción? O como sostienen algunos expertos mundiales, ¿es mejor que las policías se enfoquen en la disminución de la violencia, puesto que será imposible exterminar al crimen transnacional organizado? Conversamos con el criminólogo Rodrigo Campos en Hablando Claro.

Akasha J. Smith, PhD is the founder of School of Awakening which offers The Professional Intuitive Healer Certification Program and Transformational Retreats in Bali and Costa Rica. She's been Teaching,  facilitating Intuitive Healing sessions, Transpersonal Counseling and Past Life Regressions for people around the world for more than 20 years. She also offers Akashic Records Readings and Channeled Awakening Transmissions.One of her favorite parts about the work is watching people's hearts, bodies, minds and souls open to the connection and lives they've been so deeply longing for. When someone is ready and really shows up, true healing simply happens. With that can come a freedom unlike anything else that is absolutely beautiful to witness…another human shining.Akasha's Soul Purpose is to Help People Remember and Be Who they Truly Are. She does this through teaching, healing and creative expression. She is Deeply Passionate about Teaching Intuitive People, even if they Doubt their Abilities, how to Become Professional Healers, Heal Themselves and Awaken. Akasha has taught everything from Human Development Psychology to Creativity Enhancement and Dance to How to Connect with your Spirit Guides.She taught Mindfulness Meditation in Naropa University's Graduate Transpersonal and Contemplative Psychology Counseling Programs. Akasha researched Passionate Engagement for her Doctorate in East West Psychology at The California Institute of Integral Studies. She has a Masters Degree in Psychology from The Institute of Transpersonal Psychology with specializations in Teaching, Education & Research and Creative Expression. Akasha graduated from Naropa University with a Bachelor's degree in Contemplative Psychology and minors in Traditional Eastern and Healing Arts and Improvisational Dance. She also trained in The Clairvoyant Program at Psychic Horizons Institute and The Colorado School of Transpersonal Counseling and Hypnotherapy where she became an internationally certified hypnotherapist. She completed her yoga teacher training in Rishikesh, India and has studied traditional dance in Bali, Thailand, Hawaii and Spain.Akasha is a best-selling contributing author of Activate Your Life and just finished contributing to a 2nd book on Awakening Experiences and their impact on daily life. She was the co-author of a Transformation from Trauma study which was published in the peer-reviewed academic journal, The International Journal of Transpersonal Psychology.When Akasha isn't helping people Become Counselors and Healers and Leading Retreats, she's Creating Lightcode Art, Writing Poetry or Traveling the World Solo studying Dance, Healing and Yoga. https://www.schoolofawakenedliving.com/

En este episodio, Carles habla con Dani sobre su próximo viaje a Costa Rica: sin billete de vuelta, sin jefe y con la cámara lista para crear contenido. Conversan sobre cómo planificar un viaje de stock, aprovechar cada destino para producir fotos y vídeos, y lo que significa realmente vivir del stock con libertad total. Además, comparten ideas sobre posibles viajes fotográficos para la comunidad de Stockeros, cómo organizar sesiones en el extranjero, y los retos reales de trabajar viajando.

En los Premios Internacionales del Chocolate 2025, Nicaragua, Nicaragua obtuvo la medalla de oro más importante del certamen. La empresa Argencove ganó oro en la categoría de chocolate oscuro con alto porcentaje de cacao. Además, recibió tres premios especiales: mejor país en crecimiento, mejor fabricante de chocolate y cultivador de cacao destacado. Honduras, Costa Rica y Belice obtuvieron medallas de oro, plata y bronce en distintas categorías, superando a marcas reconocidas de Europa, Asia y América del Sur.

At 52, John realizes how often we trade our truth for “membership” - relationships, status, the idea of success - and quietly disappear. From a house fire to shaving his head, he reframes love, loss, and identity, arguing that real growth demands new lenses, not old fantasies. What You'll Learn: Why exchanging your truth for acceptance makes you lukewarm “Corrective love” vs replaying the past's highlight reel How healthy love both confronts and delights Impermanence as a doorway to gratitude (everything can vanish) Reinvention at any age: new lenses → new life Join John in Costa Rica, Dec 1–5. A retreat for connection, creativity, and fresh starts with an optional two-day medicine journey. Sign up ⁠HERE⁠

Il y a des familles qui portent dans leurs veines le goût du large. Dans la famille qu'on vous présente cette semaine, les racines plongent en Bretagne et les branches s'étendent jusqu'à la Colombie, le Mexique, les États-Unis et l'Espagne.Philippe, le père, a quitté la France il y a plus de quarante ans pour une vie de biologiste marin au Mexique. Sa fille, Lucie, a grandi entre plusieurs continents, marquée par le deuil de sa mère et le besoin vital de se reconstruire.De Paris à San Francisco, du Japon au Costa Rica, elle trace sa route, curieuse et insatiable, avant de poser ses valises à Valence avec Javier et leurs deux enfants.Et puis il y a Gabriel, 7 ans, petit garçon polyglotte qui rêve d'un pays où les maisons seraient en chocolat, en sable et en ballon.Trois générations, trois parcours, une même philosophie : celle d'un monde sans frontières, où les racines ne se perdent pas, elles se multiplient.French Expat est un podcast de French Morning qui raconte les parcours de vie des Français établis hors de France. Retrouvez-le sur toutes les plateformes d'écoute : Spotify, Apple Podcast, Deezer, Google Podcast, Podcast Addict, Amazon Music. Cet épisode est raconté, produit et réalisé par Anne-Fleur Andrle, habillé et mixé par Alice Krief. Hébergé par Acast. Visitez acast.com/privacy pour plus d'informations.

Twinkle lights, mulled wine, and cozy vibes! Genni from @travelingfranklins joins Kelsey to share everything you need to know about visiting Europe's Christmas Markets. In December 2024, she and her mom explored Berlin, Munich, Salzburg, and Paris at Christmastime. She shares their favorite markets, the best food and drink (glühwein, wurst, pretzels, Kasespatzle), souvenir tips, and what to wear to stay warm. Kelsey's Comfrt Hoodie 15% off discount link: https://comfrt.com/?growi=kelsey279This episode is now available to watch on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@kelseygravesIf you'd like to share about your trip on the podcast, email me at: kelsey@triptalespodcast.comBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFollow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kelsey_gravesFollow me on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mskelseygravesJoin us in the Trip Tales Podcast Community Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1323687329158879Mentioned in this episode:- Genni's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/lazy-budget-travel-tips/id1797989736- Christkindl Markets- KLM Airlines- AMSTERDAM: Canal Cruise, Hop On Hop Off Tour- BERLIN: Moxy Airport Hotel, Bolt for taxis, Ku'damm shopping district, Kaiser Wilhelm Memorial Church, H10 Hotel Berlin, Alexanderplatz Christmas Markets, Glühwein, Gendarmenmarkt, Christmas pyramids, Kasespatzle (German mac and cheese), Lebkuchen (German gingerbread cookies), Schmalzkuchen (German donuts)- MUNICH: Lufthansa Airlines, Munich Airport Christmas Market, Marienplatz Market, Mio by Amano Hotel, The Sendlinger Tor gate, traditional Bavarian restaurant: Der Pschorr, Medieval Christmas Market- SALZBURG: The Bavarian Pass, Old Town Salzburg, Sound of Music, Christmas Wonderland Bar + Lounge near St. Peter's Church- Pack bubble wrap- PARIS: Ladurée Paris at Christmas, The Palais-Royal, Hôtel Thérèse, Tuileries Garden, Galeries Lafayette, Christmas Illuminations Hop On Hop Off TourTrip Tales is a travel podcast sharing real vacation stories and trip itineraries for family travel, couples getaways, cruises, and all-inclusive resorts. Popular episodes feature destinations like Marco Island Florida, Costa Rica with kids, Disney Cruise Line, Disney Aulani in Hawaii, Beaches Turks & Caicos, Germany, Austria, Park City ski trips, Aruba, Italy, Ireland, Portugal's Azores, New York City, Alaska cruises, and U.S. National Parks. Listeners get real travel tips, itinerary recommendations, hotel reviews, restaurant recommendations, and inspiration for planning their next vacation, especially when traveling with kids.

Goals from Erling Haaland, Nico Gonzalez and Jeremy Doku meant Liverpool were defeated 3-0 by Manchester City in the Premier League. In this episode of The Reaction, Arne Slot gives his assessment of events at the Etihad Stadium; we also bring you post-match analysis from former Reds Jason McAteer, Neil Mellor and Jan Molby.  Our fan panel contributors were Alex Gildea Trott, Stephanie Rohlfs and José Andrés Orozco Mora from the OLSC in Costa Rica.

Join Michael at his New Year's Meditation Retreat in Costa Rica! Click here: https://events.agapelive.com/awaken-to-a-new-year-of-possibility/ Our first Life Question of the Week comes from Victoria who is deeply concerned about the state of America's democracy and wants to know how to hold these current events in the light of her spiritual understanding. Next, Selina in the UK is an actress who was recently hired in a major theatre production. However, despite working hard, her spiritual practice, and receiving compliments on her work, she still keeps doubting herself and her abilities. How can she silence her inner critic and trust her gifts? Finally, Michael leads a guided meditation on releasing negative thoughts. ✍️Love Take Back Your Mind? This podcast grows through your support. If you've been inspired by an episode, we'd love to hear from you! Consider leaving a 5-star review or drop a comment. It helps others join this journey of growth and connection

Longevity for modern women isn't about doing more—it's about choosing what matters. Today with Dr. Vincent Pedre — an integrative physician, gut-health expert, and author of The GutSMART Protocol. We connect meditation, mitochondria, and gut integrity into one aligned approach. You'll learn why "leaky gut" is nuanced (not clickbait), how microplastics quietly erode your defenses, when biohacking tips into cellular overdrive, and why breastfeeding + active detox don't belong in the same season. Expect calm clarity and practical shifts that respect female biology, nervous-system health, and real life. WE TALK ABOUT:  08:16 - How meditation changed a Type-A med student into "the Zen guy" and why calm doctors save lives 16:50 - Antibiotics, IBS, and the personal gut-health journey that shaped a career 19:35 - Food shifts that actually help: Organic eating, fermented foods, and L-glutamine to "seal and heal" 22:10 - "Leaky gut" clarified: Imperfect tests, useful clues, and what to measure 25:30 - Microplastics from hot coffee cups and takeout: how they damage the gut's mucus layer 28:15 - Wellness without rigidity: The 80/20 that reduces stress  33:55 - Mitochondrial testing insights: When high-performers are actually over-driving their cells 40:10 - Building a truly low-toxin coffee and why micro-habits drive macro health 45:00 - Coffee enemas for migraines and detox: what the clinician actually sees 51:14 - Sauna for longevity and detox: Dose, frequency, and why infrared helps 58:00 - Breastfeeding + detox: Why mobilizing toxins is a no for now 1:03:55 - Why medicine should be gut-centric before anything "muscle-centric" SPONSORS: Join me in Costa Rica for Optimize Her, a 5-night luxury women's retreat in Costa Rica with yoga, healing rituals, and biohacking workshops—only 12 spots available. Feeling bloated, tired, or hormonally off? Try BiOptimizers — supplements that actually absorb and work for women's health. Get 15% off at bioptimizers.com/biohackingbrittany with code BIOHACKINGBRITTANY. RESOURCES: Trying to conceive? Join my Baby Steps Course to optimize your fertility with biohacking. Free gift: Download my hormone-balancing, fertility-boosting chocolate recipe. Explore my luxury retreats and wellness events for women. Shop my faves: Check out my Amazon storefront for wellness essentials. Dr. Vincent Pedre's website and Instagram LET'S CONNECT: Instagram, TikTok, Facebook Shop my favorite health products Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube Music

Rapid-fire answers to your biggest honesty hurdles: settling vs. standards, dating vs. marriage mindset, online dating that respects your time, inviting more sex without pressure, and handling rejection like a grown-up. Short, practical, and therapist-backed. Join John in Costa Rica, Dec 1–5. A retreat for connection, creativity, and fresh starts with an optional two-day medicine journey. Sign up ⁠HERE⁠

This episode of Start Today is a special cross-post from the recent conversation I had with my friend Brad Lea on the Dropping Bombs Podcast.    "Psychedelics are basically like steroids for human consciousness." – Chris Cavallini   In this raw and unfiltered sit-down, I expose the no-BS strategies that took me from 17 arrests and steroid distribution charges to building an eight-figure meal prep empire. We rip the lid off frequency elevation, the real truth about psychedelics as peak performance tools (not party drugs), and why most entrepreneurs quit right before their breakthrough. From ayahuasca journeys in Costa Rica to 5-MeO-DMT experiences that rival 20 years of therapy, I reveal how elite performers like Tony Robbins, Steve Jobs, and Elon Musk use these tools to elevate consciousness and dominate their fields.   This isn't about getting high—it's about getting higher frequency. No fluff. No excuses. Just the raw blueprint for self-mastery and business domination.  

Can we learn more about humans by studying animal behavior? For Dr. Francine Dolins, this question lies at the heart of her life's work. An Assistant Professor of Psychology at the University of Michigan-Dearborn, Dr. Dolins explores the rich intersections between animal cognition, ecology, and the evolutionary foundations of behavior. With a Ph.D. in Cognitive Psychology and Behavioral Primatology from the University of Stirling and a BSc in Behavioral Ecology from the University of Sussex, her research delves into how non-human primates and humans navigate their worlds. From lemurs in Madagascar to tamarins in Costa Rica and Peru, Dr. Dolins studies spatial cognition, decision-making, and navigation in both natural habitats and experimental settings. In this episode, we discuss: Dr. Dolins's pioneering work on virtual reality research with apes. How primates use mental maps and landmarks to make navigational decisions. What current research can reveal about the evolution of intelligence, cooperation, and social cognition. Dr. Dolins also collaborates with scientists worldwide, combining field primatology, technology, and comparative psychology to advance both animal welfare and conservation education. Eager to learn more about this fascinating subject? Click play now to deep dive into how studying our closest relatives helps us understand ourselves… You can learn more about Dr. Dolins and her work here!

In this part 3 of our Attachment series, therapist Rebecca Prolman joins John Kim to unpack how childhood misattunement wires shame, why anger isn't the enemy, and how “emotional completion” helps you reclaim the parts you exiled to survive. They explore corrective relationships (why real safety can feel scary), co-regulation for kids, and practical steps to move from fawning to sovereignty. Key topics & takeaways: Shame as a survival strategy that blocks primary emotions (grief/anger) Emotional completion: feeling what shame protected so it can release Co-regulation vs. punishment/time-outs for children's anger Corrective relationships: safety, grief, and why “boring” can be secure Depth sustains attraction; chemistry alone burns out Naming early ruptures without making caregivers “villains” Methods mentioned: NARM — Neuro-Affective Relational Model (Dr. Laurence Heller ). Resources (as mentioned by Rebecca): Try Rebecca's mini course if you're new to this work; consider the 5-module course for deeper practice HERE Parts 1 HERE & Part 2 of this series HERE

Join Michael at his New Year's Meditation Retreat in Costa Rica! Click here: https://events.agapelive.com/awaken-to-a-new-year-of-possibility/  Over the past couple of years, Take Back Your Mind has received several questions about meditation including, what is it? Why do it? Who is it for? Am I doing it right? How do I reach deeper levels of awareness? Today, Michael talks about the art, science, and practice of meditation where he addresses these questions—and so much more—followed by an extended guided meditation session.  Highlights include: -A clear definition of meditation: paying undistracted attention to Reality and being present with our thoughts, sensations, and emotions without resisting or enhancing them -The benefits of meditation: less anxiety and reactivity; more clarity, creativity, resilience, and Source-led decision making; better sleep, balanced blood pressure, immune support, and neuro-regeneration through consistent practice -Breaking myths like "my mind's too busy" to meditate—why busyness is exactly why we meditate and observing "thinking-ness" instead of fighting it -Why meditation is a universal human practice for everyone—parents, athletes, teachers, leaders—not just monks or yogis -From starting your practice to the mature practice that recognizes meditation is portable and can be done any time and anywhere -Various meditation tools: guided, breath, mantra, observation and frequency music options that make practice accessible and flexible -Spotting classic blockers at the edge of insight and stabilizing the insight so revelation becomes a living state, not a memory -Bringing the vibe with you—before meetings, generate the quality (peace, love, support) and walk in carrying it -Michael's extended guided meditation on intention, attention, and breath Meditation Resources -Livestream Michael every Sunday at 6:45 AM PT for his Way of Meditation service at Agape's YouTube channel https://www.youtube.com/@AgapeSpiritualCenter/streams. Or view his Way of Meditation clips here on his YouTube channel. -Receive a free download of Michael's guided meditation, "Raise Your Vibration and Be Untouchable" at https://michaelbeckwith.com/ when you sign up for his mailing list. -Get a free month of Soaak Meditation frequencies at https://www.soaak.com/agape and use the code AGAPE at checkout.  ✍️Love Take Back Your Mind? This podcast grows through your support. If you've been inspired by an episode, we'd love to hear from you! Consider leaving a 5-star review or drop a comment. It helps others join this journey of growth and connection

Frog and Toad Are Friends, at least according to a venerable children's book. And so are Jason (Crazy Town's resident biology nerd) and conservationist brothers, Kyle and Trevor Ritland, authors of The Golden Toad: An Ecological Mystery and the Search for a Lost Species. The three eco-explorers connect over wondrous habitats and critters in Costa Rica's cloud forest and swap stories that cover Lazarus species, global pandemics, self-taught naturalists, birding, and even pregnancy tests. Spliced into the nostalgia and stories are reflections on how to cope in a world where biodiversity is declining and how to regain the connections that modernity has severed between humanity and wild nature. Originally recorded on 10/9/25.Sources/Links/Notes:Kyle and Trevor Ritland, The Golden Toad: An Ecological Mystery and the Search for a Lost Species, Diversion Books, 2025.Adventure Term, Kyle and Trevor's nonprofit experiential learning initiativeRelated episode(s) of Crazy Town:Episode 40, "Nature Detachment and Ecocide, or… the Story of the Marauding Mountain Lion"Episode 49, "A Day at the Zoo Is No Walk in the Park: Humanity's Overexploitation of Animals and Nature"

Amy is joined by author Kaila Yu to discuss her book Fetishized: A Reckoning with Yellow Fever, Feminism, and Beauty, hearing Kaila's firsthand experiences while also learning about the colonialist origins of the fetishes harming Asian women and girls.Donate to Breaking Down PatriarchyKaila Yu is an author and on-camera correspondent based in Los Angeles. She's written for the Los Angeles Times, the New York Times, Rolling Stone, Condé Nast Traveler, National Geographic, and more. Her former band, Nylon Pink, has toured in Australia and performed across Shanghai, Costa Rica, Japan, Macau, Malaysia, and beyond. Her debut memoir, Fetishized: A Reckoning with Yellow Fever, Feminism, and Beauty, was released in August 2025.

John Kim and Rebecca Prolman unpack how childhood attachment wounds and the shame-based adaptations they create - shape adult relationships. They trace core capacities (connection, attunement, trust, autonomy, love/sexuality) and show how co-regulation and healthy boundaries restore intimacy and desire. Resources mentioned: NARM (NeuroAffective Relational Model) framework and a 5-module course by Rebecca you can find HERE Part 1 of this series HERE