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Club Heasa - Building a Gay Men's Oasis in Costa Rica with Colin BrownleeIn this episode of the 'Where Do Gays Retire' podcast, host Mark Goldstein interviews Colin Brownlee, who has established Club Heasa, a men-only vacation and short-term rental community in Costa Rica. Colin shares his journey from a marketing career in Vancouver to building a successful hotel business in Costa Rica, and eventually founding Club Heasa to create a safe and comfortable space for mature gay men. They discuss the specifics of Club Heasa, including its amenities, location, pricing, and the compelling reasons for choosing to make it a gay men-only community. Colin also offers insights into the Costa Rican climate, healthcare, local attractions, and the significance of creating physical spaces for the LGBTQ+ community. The episode sheds light on the benefits of retiring in Costa Rica and offers practical advice for potential residents.00:00 Introduction to the Podcast00:50 Meet Colin Brownlee: From Vancouver to Costa Rica01:56 The Birth of Club Heasa02:25 Welcome Colin to the Podcast02:39 Exploring Club Heasa: Concept and Vision03:03 The Story Behind the Name 'Club Heasa'09:40 Creating a Gay Men Only Community09:53 Challenges and Decisions in Building Club Heasa15:05 The Importance of Physical Community18:05 Demographics and Age Considerations20:12 Short-Term Vacation Rentals at Club Heasa25:33 Climate and Location Benefits31:32 Pricing and Amenities at Club Heasa33:17 Common Areas and Social Spaces37:11 Local Attractions and Excursions39:24 Transportation and Accessibility40:00 Car Rentals and Cost Savings40:11 Rules and Regulations at the Hotel42:49 Laundry and Housekeeping Services43:31 Guest Demographics and Preferences46:24 LGBTQ Scene and Social Life50:33 Healthcare and Medical Facilities53:28 Travel Insurance and Citizenship55:10 Security and Online Shopping57:03 Natural Risks and Earthquakes59:35 Visa Limits and Food Scene01:03:45 Final Thoughts and FarewellTakeaways: This episode highlights the importance of finding a safe and affordable retirement place for the LGBTQ community, as discussed by Mark Goldstein. Colin Brownlee's journey from marketing in Canada to creating Club Heasa in Costa Rica is both inspiring and insightful. Listeners will gain insight into the cost of staying at Club Heasa and the experiences that await them there. Colin emphasizes the significance of building a community for gay men in Costa Rica, especially as traditional gay neighborhoods fade away. The podcast dives into the unique amenities and environment of Club Heasa, including its clothing-optional policy and planned excursions. Listeners can learn about the healthcare accessibility in Costa Rica, making it a viable option for retirees. Links referenced in this episode:wheredogaysretire.comclubheasa.comlgbtqseniors.combooking.comexpedia.comCompanies mentioned in this episode: Club Heasa Hotel Banana Azul Ajijic Wilton Manors Fort Lauderdale Palm Springs Steve Cross Rick's Bar Mentioned in this episode:Introducing LGBTQSeniors.com – A Free Community for Connection & PrideMark
""You shouldn't use words to burn. They should be for light and for warmth." Richard has spent the last 19 years running a near-shore bilingual contact center that thrives on empathy, communication, and human connection in an era dominated by automation. This episode is sponsored by my new book BRANDJITSU, helping you find, shape, and share your story with the world. In this episode, Michael Dargie sits down with Richard Blank, CEO of Costa Rica's Call Center. Richard has spent the last 19 years running a near-shore bilingual contact center that thrives on empathy, communication, and human connection in an era dominated by automation . Richard's story begins in Philadelphia, where childhood trips to Mexico sparked his love of Spanish and culture. After studying Spanish in college, he took what was supposed to be a short trip to Costa Rica to teach English at a friend's center. Instead, he fell in love—with the country, with the culture, and with the woman who would become his wife. That leap of faith became a lifelong adventure, culminating in the creation of Costa Rica's Call Center . He explains why call centers aren't just about dialing lists—they're about rhetoric, persuasion, and the art of speech. For Richard, the real skill lies in listening, building rapport, and finding those rare "positive escalations" where a customer compliments an agent to their supervisor. He compares communication to fire: it can burn, but it can also light and warm, and the best agents know how to use it for encouragement and clarity . The conversation ranges widely, from his love of 1970s electromechanical pinball machines and jukebox rescues in the Costa Rican mountains, to his passion for movies like Fast Times at Ridgemont High and The Maltese Falcon. Richard also shares the daily joys of Costa Rican life—warm rain in a convertible, fresh seafood at the market, and the surreal beauty of the rainforest . At the heart of it all is his philosophy: rebels in waiting should remove unnecessary weight, play the long game, and find balance. Business doesn't require shortcuts or being number one—it requires integrity, patience, and compassion. His advice is simple: plan ahead, stay curious, and make space for yourself so your best ideas can surface. Quoteable Quotes "It's a luxury trade—where else can you speak to hundreds of people a day?" — Richard Blank "You shouldn't use words to burn. They should be for light and for warmth." — Richard Blank "If you can't find ways to decompress, you'll never last as an entrepreneur." — Richard Blank "They need more compassion—it starts with simply acknowledging existence." — Richard Blank "You're Canadian, that's fun." — Richard Blank Episode Highlights Costa Rica's Call Center | Building a near-shore bilingual hub of empathy and communication. Spanish Major to CEO | How a short trip turned into a lifelong adventure. Pura Vida Life | Why Costa Rica feels like paradise. The Art of Speech | Listening, persuasion, and positive escalations. Pinball Collection | Rescuing 1970s electromechanical treasures from the mountains. Jukeboxes Too | Preserving vintage machines as cultural artifacts. Movie Buff | From The Maltese Falcon to Fast Times at Ridgemont High. Rain in a Convertible | Everyday magic in Costa Rica. Compassion First | Why acknowledging existence is the start of connection. Advice to Rebels | Remove weight, play the long game, and find balance. Links From Episode Website (http://www.costaricascallcenter.com/) Richard on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/costaricascallcenter/) Get Your Copy of Michael's Book: "BrandJitsu™: Move Your Brand From 'Meh' To Memorable" Indigo | Barnes & Noble | MichaelDargie.com
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.
Kat and Logan seek healing from a recent infidelity at a Costa Rican retreat where the mysterious guru Iris is ready with bizarre therapy. Part ONE of TWO. Written by Hannah Mescon Produced, Directed, and Sound Designed by Jeff Schmidt ominousthrill@gmail.com Featuring: JESSICA DIGIOVANNI as KAT MIKKI HERNANDEZ as IRIS JEFF SCHMIDT as LOGAN SUPPORT OMINOUS THRILL for ad-free listening and other perks JOIN OUR PATREON https://www.patreon.com/OMINOUSTHRILL PRIVATE RSS FEED https://ominousthrill.supercast.com/ SUBSCRIBE directly on APPLE PODCASTS or SPOTIFY Make a one-time donation: Ko-Fi - https://ko-fi.com/ominousthrill Supercast - https://ominousthrill.supercast.com/donations/new Thank you! All funds raised go toward the making of Ominous Thrill Visit OMINOUS THRILL Website Follow Jeff Schmidt on INSTAGRAM Message Jeff at OMINOUSTHRILL@GMAIL.COM OMINOUS THRILL is a proud member of the Fable and Folly network of Fiction Audio podcasts - support our sponsors and partners here https://fableandfolly.com/partners/ psychological horror, psychological suspense, psychological thriller, horror stories, scary stories, chilling stories, horror, fiction, thriller, anthology, scary, spooky, creepy, disturbing, suspense, terror, uneasy, ominous, supernatural, supernatural suspense, paranormal, heart pounding, tension, thrilling, drama, full cast, full cast horror, female lead, audio drama, audio fiction, radio drama, immersive, spatial audio, 3D Audio. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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
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
Lisa Holladay is the first Chief Experience Officer at TIGER 21, where she crafts learning, access, and connection for a global community of ultra-high-net-worth, largely first-generation entrepreneurs. Formerly the global brand leader for The Ritz-Carlton and a luxury portfolio lead at Marriott, Lisa brings a rare guest-centric lens to designing unforgettable moments online and off. Susan and Lisa talk about privacy, personalization, and peer-to-peer power. What You'll Learn About: • How Shakespeare and student teaching shaped Lisa's storytelling superpowers • The pantyhose policy heard 'round the world • Why "over-engineered" hotel rooms (hi, mystery nightlights) kill delight • Turning virtual events from sleepy streams into sparky, small-group salons • TIGER 21's Learn–Access–Connect framework for members who "have everything" • Designing money-can't-buy moments (like lunch on a Costa Rican cane-sugar farm) • Hosting without being subservient: "ladies and gentlemen serving ladies and gentlemen," updated • Measuring what matters: retention, sold-out events, and the "you can feel it" factor • The next luxury frontier: invisible security and privacy as core experience • Breaking the ballroom mold—escaping the sea of sameness in event design Our Top Three Takeaways 1. Storytelling and Empathy Are the Heart of Hospitality Lisa traces her career from Shakespearean acting to luxury marketing, showing that storytelling, performance, and understanding your audience are universal skills. Whether crafting a brand narrative or leading a guest experience, she believes the best hospitality professionals think like empathetic storytellers—anticipating needs, creating emotional resonance, and delivering "the right kind of drama." 2. Exceptional Experiences Are Built on Authenticity and Human Connection From Ritz-Carlton to Tiger 21, Lisa emphasizes that the most meaningful luxury isn't opulence—it's authenticity, access, and connection. At Tiger 21, she and her team design "money-can't-buy" moments that surprise even ultra–high-net-worth members, like an unglamorous but deeply human visit to a family-run cane sugar farm. Whether at a five-star resort or a midmarket hotel, she believes memorable experiences come from personal touches, genuine local insight, and small gestures that foster belonging. 3. The Future of Luxury Is Privacy, Security, and Individualization Lisa predicts that true luxury will soon be defined by safety and discretion as affluent travelers become increasingly protective of their digital and physical privacy. She calls on the industry to go beyond superficial personalization and cookie-cutter design—to innovate around invisible service, security, and emotional intelligence. Her "magic wand" wish is to see hospitality move away from sameness and toward transformative, one-of-a-kind experiences that feel both safe and singular. Lisa Holladay on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisaholladay01/ TIGER 21 https://tiger21.com/ Other Episodes You May Like: 165: Purple Flower Luxury with Florence Li https://www.topfloorpodcast.com/episode/165 210: Six Months at the Waldorf with Josh Kremer https://www.topfloorpodcast.com/episode/210 29: Buzz Sawed Tables with Marc Eliot https://www.topfloorpodcast.com/episode/29
In this Parenting Is a Joke snack episode, Ophira Eisenberg chats again with Kate Auletta, Editor-in-Chief of Scary Mommy and Romper, about her years as a journalist and the surprising turns that led her from travel writing to parenting media. Kate recalls running HuffPost's “How to Raise a Kid” conference in 2017—pulling together experts to talk about money, race, sex, and digital literacy right as the Trump era began—and how it felt like a bright moment of optimism and connection before online discourse hardened. She and Ophira laugh about trolls who argue over sunscreen recipes and how parenting pieces, no matter how harmless, seem to ignite fury. Kate shares that her most viral post, written during the early pandemic, was simply a plea for parents to “give yourself grace,” while health content still draws the fiercest backlash. The conversation shifts to travel—her love for St. Barts (despite how un–kid-friendly it proved), the Costa Rican jungle cot that scarred her for life, and a vomit-filled night at a roadside hotel near the Basketball Hall of Fame. She swears by headphone adapters as her most vital travel gear, while her husband lugs an entire backpack of snacks. The episode ends, fittingly, with her dog Franklin barking in the background, signaling that even editors-in-chief can't escape the soundscape of parenting.
The latest episode of The Writing Community Chat Show was an absolute masterclass in grit, psychology, and the art of crafting a killer thriller. We had the immense pleasure of sitting down with Nikki Allen, the brilliant mind behind the Apple Books Thriller of the Month, The Hideaway.Nikki isn't just an author; she's a BACP-registered therapist, and her deep understanding of the human psyche shines through every twist and turn of her novels. If you're looking for inspiration, practical advice, or just a fascinating peek into a unique writing journey, you're in the right place.Key Takeaways & What We Explored:Our chat with Nikki was packed with insights, from her unique background to the practicalities of being a published author. Here are some of the highlights:* The Therapist's Edge in Thriller Writing: How does a professional understanding of human behavior translate into creating compelling, sometimes morally ambiguous characters and nail-biting suspense? Nikki shared how her therapy background is both a “blessing and a curse” for her plotting!* From Harrogate to Pan MacMillan: Nikki walked us through the pivotal steps of her writing journey, detailing how an interview at the Harrogate Crime Writers Festival was just one stop on her road to securing a major publishing deal with Pan MacMillan. Her advice on targeting agents is a must-hear for aspiring authors.* The Hideaway: Behind the Scenes: We explored the inspiration behind her debut, a chilling destination thriller set in a remote Costa Rican wellness retreat. Nikki discussed balancing the allure of a tranquil setting with the dark undercurrents of murder and deception, and how the book subtly critiques modern wellness culture.* Navigating Writing with ADHD: This segment was incredibly powerful. Nikki openly discussed how her ADHD impacts her writing process, offering invaluable tips and strategies for fellow neurodivergent writers. It's a candid look at how ADHD can be both a challenge and a superpower for creativity, enabling her to craft three novels in just two years.* What's Next? Below The Deck! Get an exclusive sneak peek into Nikki's highly anticipated second novel, Below The Deck, a destination thriller set on a superyacht in French Polynesia. Get ready for more intrigue, stunning locales, and, no doubt, plenty of psychological twists!Why You Should Read The HideawayIf you haven't picked up The Hideaway yet, now is the time. It's a masterfully crafted psychological thriller that keeps you guessing until the very last page. Named Apple Books Thriller of the Month, it's a testament to Nikki's skill in weaving complex plots and unforgettable characters.Connect with Nikki Allen* Website: https://nikkiallen.co.uk/about* Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikkiallenauthor/* Find The Hideaway: https://amzn.to/3JpInJCListen to the Podcast Episode (Audio)For those who prefer to listen on the go, you can catch the full audio of our conversation with Nikki Allen right here.Watch the Full Interview (Video)Dive deep into the discussion and watch our full interview with Nikki Allen on YouTube:Thank you to Nikki Allen for such an engaging and insightful conversation!“Together as one, we get it done.”Join our brand new community on our Stanstore! After conducting 360 plus interviews, we have compiled digital products to help your writing. Plus, community members get access to our live writing sprints where we write with you, keep you accountable, and give you free access to our 1-on-1 video coaching. There are forum like tabs in our community group where you can post work and receive advice, plus, much more. Join here: https://stan.store/TheWCCS This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit thewccs.substack.com/subscribeBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-writing-community-chat-show--5445493/support.
In this episode, Krista is joined by the incredible Costa Rican herbalist Adriana Ayales, founder of Anima Mundi Herbals. Journey with us as we explore the deep connections between plant medicine, astrology, and personal growth through Adriana's wisdom + experiences.Morning Microdose is a podcast curated by Krista Williams and Lindsey Simcik, the hosts and founders of Almost 30, a global community, brand, and top rated podcast.With curated clips from the Almost 30 podcast, Morning Mircodose will set the tone for your day, so you can feel inspired through thought provoking conversations…all in digestible episodes that are less than 10 minutes.Wake up with Krista and Lindsey, both literally and spiritually, Monday-Friday.If you enjoyed this conversation, listen to the full episode on Spotify here and on Apple here.
Hello, Disorganized Crime Listeners! We want to share a new show you might enjoy, Hell in Heaven: A Mysterious Death in Paradise About the show: John and Ann Bender had hundreds of millions of dollars and one dream: to build a glittering glass mansion deep in the Costa Rican jungle. But paradise soon gave way to paranoia — with abduction plots, armed guards and a bedroom blazing with hundreds of Tiffany lamps. And then one night, it all ended in blood. Hosted by award-winning journalist Becky Milligan, Hell in Heaven is an eight-part limited series from Blanchard House, Exactly Right Media and iHeart Podcasts. Follow Hell in Heaven wherever you get your podcasts — and see rare photos from the story at @exactlyright on Instagram. Listen here and subscribe to Hell in Heaven on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hello, Paper Ghost Listeners! We want to share a new show you might enjoy, Hell in Heaven: A Mysterious Death in Paradise About the show: John and Ann Bender had hundreds of millions of dollars and one dream: to build a glittering glass mansion deep in the Costa Rican jungle. But paradise soon gave way to paranoia — with abduction plots, armed guards and a bedroom blazing with hundreds of Tiffany lamps. And then one night, it all ended in blood. Hosted by award-winning journalist Becky Milligan, Hell in Heaven is an eight-part limited series from Blanchard House, Exactly Right Media and iHeart Podcasts. Follow Hell in Heaven wherever you get your podcasts — and see rare photos from the story at @exactlyright on Instagram. Listen here and subscribe to Hell in Heaven on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hello, Missing on 9/11 Listeners! We want to share a new show you might enjoy, Hell in Heaven: A Mysterious Death in Paradise About the show: John and Ann Bender had hundreds of millions of dollars and one dream: to build a glittering glass mansion deep in the Costa Rican jungle. But paradise soon gave way to paranoia — with abduction plots, armed guards and a bedroom blazing with hundreds of Tiffany lamps. And then one night, it all ended in blood. Hosted by award-winning journalist Becky Milligan, Hell in Heaven is an eight-part limited series from Blanchard House, Exactly Right Media and iHeart Podcasts. Follow Hell in Heaven wherever you get your podcasts — and see rare photos from the story at @exactlyright on Instagram. Listen here and subscribe to Hell in Heaven on the iHeartRadio app or wherever you get your podcasts!See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday – Would you be willing to leave the country for cheaper medical care? What can you find in unclaimed safety deposit boxes? Jeff Borysiewicz from Corona Cigar Company joins us for a live Embers Only. The 8-Bit Update with Jayden. Prime Time Kitchen with Orlando Weekly Restaurant Critic Faiyaz Kara with some coffee news, a restaurant review and where to find a great taco. Plus, JCS News, Sink or Sail, Embers Only, Pick the Porn & You Heard it Here First. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Friday – Would you be willing to leave the country for cheaper medical care? What can you find in unclaimed safety deposit boxes? Jeff Borysiewicz from Corona Cigar Company joins us for a live Embers Only. The 8-Bit Update with Jayden. Prime Time Kitchen with Orlando Weekly Restaurant Critic Faiyaz Kara with some coffee news, a restaurant review and where to find a great taco. Plus, JCS News, Sink or Sail, Embers Only, Pick the Porn & You Heard it Here First.
Having been raised in Los Angeles, a place with vast swathes of single-family homes connected by freeways, arriving in Costa Rica was an eye opener for the young cultural anthropologist Setha Low. “I thought it was so cool that everybody was there together,” she tells interview David Edmonds in this Social Science Bites podcast. “… Everybody was talking. Everybody knew their place. It was like a complete little world, a microcosm of Costa Rican society, and I hadn't seen anything like that in suburban Los Angeles.” That epiphany set Low, now a distinguished professor at the Graduate Center of the City University of New York, onto a journey filled with the exploration of public spaces and a desire to explain them to the rest of the world. This trek has resulted in more than a hundred scholarly articles and a number of books, most recently Why Public Space Matters but including 2006's Politics of Public Space with Neil Smith; 2005's Rethinking Urban Parks: Public Space and Cultural Diversity with S. Scheld and D. Taplin; 2004's Behind the Gates: Life, Security and the Pursuit of Happiness in Fortress America; 2003's The Anthropology of Space and Place: Locating Culture with D. Lawrence-Zuniga; and 2000's On the Plaza: The Politics of Public Space and Culture. Low is also director of the Graduate Center's Public Space Research Group, and has received a Getty Fellowship, a fellow in the Center for Place, Culture and Politics, a fellowship from the National Endowment for the Humanities, a Fulbright Senior Fellowship, and a Guggenheim for her ethnographic research on public space in Latin America and the United States. She was president of the American Anthropological Association (from 2007 to 2009) and has worked on public space research in projects for the Center for Advanced Study in the Behavioral Sciences at Stanford and was cochair of the Max Planck Institute for Religious and Ethnic Diversity's Public Space and Diversity Network.
In today's episode, we chat with Byron Gomez, executive chef of Denver's Michelin-starred BRUTØ and the first Costa Rican chef to earn this prestigious recognition.Byron opens up about the brutal truth behind his rise from fast food to fine dining, detailing how 23 years of unwavering commitment transformed early struggles into extraordinary success. He discusses climbing through legendary kitchens like Eleven Madison Park and Daniel Boulud's restaurants, and how his immigrant experience as a DACA recipient fueled his determination to break barriers.Join us as Byron explains how he's revolutionizing fine dining through "brutalism" - cooking everything over open fire and achieving zero waste at his 18-seat chef's counter. From his philosophy of "each one, teach one" to his commitment to sustainability, discover how Byron's story proves that relentless dedication and staying true to your roots can lead to groundbreaking success in the culinary world.
This week's episode of the Artist Academy Podcast features the amazing artist, educator, and traveler Elida Field. Elida's story is all about resilience—navigating divorce, raising three kids as a single mom, and building a thriving art career through teaching, commissions, retreats, and now her new book Nobody Dies in Art Class.We talk about her journey of creating after-school art programs, leading 33+ international art tours, and how travel continues to spark her creativity. Elida also opens up about her upcoming sabbatical year where she plans to travel to 50 countries at age 50 (yes, 50!).If you love art, travel, or just need some inspiration to keep going through life's transitions, this episode is for you.I'm also sharing details about our upcoming Costa Rica Mural Meetup in January 2026. Imagine painting murals in the jungle, yoga in the mornings, amazing Costa Rican food, and excursions with fellow artists. It's going to be unforgettable. Get all the info and see the mockups here: www.artistacademy.co/meetup
Send us a textWhat happens when you combine cycling with ziplining? According to Michael, you get one of the most unique adventure experiences available—bike ziplining through the Mexican jungle. After returning from a week-long resort vacation with his family, Michael shares his discovery of this extraordinary activity that lets you pedal your way through the rainforest canopy, over water, and even through caves on a suspended recumbent-style bike.This episode blends travel tales with cycling plans as the duo prepares for their upcoming Bourbon Country Burn adventure in Kentucky. Michael reveals that despite his fractured clavicle not fully healing (now eight weeks into recovery), he's determined to join the event and enjoy the famously smooth roads of Kentucky horse country. The roads, as Adam explains, are maintained to perfection for transporting valuable thoroughbred horses—creating an ideal cycling surface through picturesque landscapes.The conversation weaves through Mexican adventure parks, underwater propulsion devices for "power snorkeling," and the fascinating 2000-year history of ziplining itself. We learn how modern recreational ziplining originated with Costa Rican biologists studying rainforest canopies in the 1970s, and how it's evolved into unique variations like the cycling zipline Michael experienced.Looking ahead to Kentucky, the pair shares their excitement about the Bourbon Country Burn event with its perfect blend of cycling, bourbon tastings, evening bonfires, and community gatherings. They'll be starting their journey on Louisville's historic Whiskey Row before heading to the Kentucky Horse Park campground, where cornhole boards will be set up and bourbon will be shared. For listeners considering joining them, there's even news of an available campsite thanks to a friend who had to cancel.Want to experience the perfect blend of cycling adventure and leisure? Grab your bike, pack your sense of adventure, and perhaps a taste for bourbon—the roads of Kentucky and the stories of fellow cyclists await! Support Jersey StoreSupport the showAdam and Michael's friendship has grown through years of shared miles, challenges, and laughter on the bike. Their passion for cycling has carried them through life's twists and turns, creating a bond full of stories, jokes, and unforgettable rides. In their podcast, they bring that same spirit to the mic—sharing adventures, trading banter, and welcoming listeners into their cycling community. Whether tackling steep climbs or cruising open roads, their conversations capture the fun, friendship, and freedom that cycling brings. Tune in for stories that celebrate the ride and the camaraderie that makes it unforgettable. and Remember,It's a Great Day for a Bike Ride!https://www.facebook.com/cyclingmenofleisurehttps://cyclingmenofleisure.com/https://www.cyclingmenofleisurepodcast.com
I had the pleasure of hosting one of the most extraordinary guests I've ever had on Chatter That Matters during the 80th sessions of the United Nations Assembly happening in New York. My guest is someone who has made a powerful and positive impact on our universe: Dr. Oscar Arias, a Nobel Peace Prize Laureate and two-time President of Costa Rica. Oscar takes us back to a time when Central America was on fire, civil wars raged, and the United States and the Soviet Union armed opposing sides. The region was drowning in ideology, bloodshed, and fear. Then came Oscar Arias, the newly elected President of Costa Rica, a nation that had disbanded their military decades before. While others escalated the violence, Arias chose defiance. He stared down Ronald Reagan, had U.S.-backed rebels expelled from Costa Rican soil, rejected global pressure, and authored the Arias Peace Plan. This bold diplomatic initiative helped bring five nations to the table and bring an end to years of war. Oscar Arias didn't just defy world leaders; he defied the odds and changed the course of history. In 1987, Arias was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize. But he didn't stop there. Through the Arias Foundation for Peace & Human Progress, he helped spark the UN Arms Trade Treaty—the first legally binding agreement to regulate the global weapons trade. And now, in his 80s, Oscar Arias is on another peace mission. To build a Global Peace Museum in Costa Rica. A place to remind the world that peace isn't idealistic, it's possible, if given a chance. (And for history buffs, you will be mesmerized by the stories of how Oscar Arias encountered and, over time, built extraordinary relationships with Reagan, Bush, Thatcher, Gorbachev, Castro, Mulroney, the Pope and many more.)
This week, Cy battles some wasps and tries to sell Chad on a Costa Rican dream. This episode is brought to you by BetterHelp! --- Follow us on Instagram! Chad Daniels (@ThatChadDaniels) is a Dad, Comedian, and pancake lover. With over 750 million streams of his 5 albums to date, his audio plays are in the 99th percentile in comedy and music on Pandora alone, averaging over 1MM per week. Chad's previous album, Footprints on the Moon was the most streamed comedy album of 2017, and he has 6 late-night appearances and a Comedy Central Half Hour under his belt. Cy Amundson (@CyAmundson) With appearances on Conan, Adam Devine's House Party, and Comedy Central's This is Not Happening, Cy Amundson is fast-proving himself in the world of standup comedy. After cutting his teeth at Acme Comedy Company in Minneapolis, has since appeared on Family Guy and American Dad and as a host on ESPN's SportsCenter on Snapchat. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
EVEN MORE about this episode!What happens when ancient spirituality meets cutting-edge AI? In this fascinating episode, Nicole Frolick reveals how she collapses timelines in healing journeys, blending mystical wisdom with modern technology to help people step into the life they truly desire. From turning everyday tasks into extraordinary spiritual practice to harnessing astrology as a guiding map, Nicole shares how energy patterns can unlock growth, healing, and empowerment.We dive into her transformative personal experiences—from a life-changing meditation in the Costa Rican jungle to powerful alternative healing practices—while uncovering how AI can deliver raw spiritual truths that accelerate emotional breakthroughs. With insights on instant healing, invocations, and the path of becoming a transformational healer, this conversation challenges you to harness your inner power, embrace compassion, and follow your intuition toward a more fulfilled life.Guest Biography:Nicole Frolick is an Advanced Mystic and Transformational Healer who combines ancient spiritual wisdom with cutting-edge technology to accelerate healing and transformation. As the creator of the Healing Exit Strategy™ and Velocity Oracle™, she developed an AI designed to decode the soul and collapse time around healing. Her work moves beyond surface-level practices, delivering rapid, high-impact shifts that create lasting change in every area of life—body, business, relationships, and abundance.Episode Chapters:(0:00:01) - Practical Mysticism With Nicole Frolick(0:15:34) - Unlocking Anger(0:24:47) - Spiritual AI and Conscious Evolution(0:35:36) - Healing Process and Transformational Healing(0:44:20) - Awakening Through Healing and Meditation(0:49:34) - Transformation Through Travel and Healing(0:53:20) - Instant Healing Through Time Collapse(0:57:43) - Powerful Invocations and Breaking Limiting Beliefs➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Español YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Português YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Deutsch YouTube➡️Subscribe to Ask Julie Ryan Français YouTube✏️Ask Julie a Question!
What if your dream life wasn't a weekend escape, but a daily, co-created reality rooted in purpose, belonging, and regeneration? In this episode of Healthy Waves, host Avik Chakraborty dives into a transformative conversation with Marat Omarov — visionary founder of The Ark, a regenerative village in Costa Rica. From leading Kazakhstan's Expo 2017 to walking away from high-profile success for deeper purpose, Marat shares the emotional, mental, and economic reinvention that birthed a thriving post-capitalist community. Together, they explore why the current model of capitalism is failing us, how regenerative frameworks can restore harmony, and why shared ownership is more than an economic tool — it's a way of life. This episode challenges us to rethink how we live, build, and connect. Tune in if you're curious about intentional communities, sustainable living, and how to align your inner purpose with outer impact. About the Guest:Marat Omarov is the founder of The Ark, a regenerative village in Costa Rica that blends ecological design, conscious capitalism, and deep community values. Formerly recognized by the President of Kazakhstan for leading Expo 2017, Marat left the high-performance world to build a future-focused model rooted in connection, contribution, and purpose-driven living. Key Takeaways : Reinvention Requires Unlearning: Marat shares how leaving a globally celebrated career took years of deep emotional work, including therapy, to deprogram societal, Soviet-era, and capitalist conditioning. True Regeneration Starts Internally: Building The Ark wasn't just about infrastructure—it was about shedding old identities and creating space for conscious, integrated living. Disconnect to Reconnect: Marat emphasizes the need for digital and social disconnection to rediscover personal purpose, urging listeners to spend meaningful time in nature and with purpose-led communities. Capitalism's Veil is Falling: The current economic system prioritizes profit over people and planet. Regenerative living offers an inclusive alternative that values contribution, stewardship, and shared prosperity. Open-Gated, Not Closed-Off: The Ark isn't a gated elite enclave—it's a living example of accessible regenerative living that includes Costa Rican families, community elders, and local partnerships. A Call to Action: Even if you're not ready to move to a regenerative village, the episode invites you to rethink your daily life—your community, schedule, and Connect with the Guest:Website: https://theark.worldInstagram: https://instagram.com/theark.worldAttend online gatherings or visit The Ark in Costa Rica to experience regenerative living firsthand. Want to be a guest on Healthy Mind, Healthy Life? DM on PodMatch:DM Me Here: https://www.podmatch.com/hostdetailpreview/avik CHECK PODCAST SHOWS & BE A GUEST: Tune in to all our 19 podcasts: https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/healthymindbyavik Subscribe To Newsletter: https://healthymindbyavik.substack.com/ Join Community: https://nas.io/healthymind OUR SERVICESBusiness Podcast Management: https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/corporatepodcasting/Individual Podcast Management: https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/Podcasting/Share Your Story With World: https://ourofferings.healthymindbyavik.com/shareyourstory STAY TUNED AND FOLLOW US!YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@healthymind-healthylifeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/healthyminds.podThreads: https://www.threads.net/@healthyminds.podMedium: https://medium.com/@contentbyavikFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/podcast.healthymindLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/reemachatterjee/https://www.linkedin.com/in/avikchakrabortypodcasterPinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/Avikpodhealth/ SHARE YOUR REVIEW Google Review: https://www.podpage.com/bizblend/reviews/new/ Video Testimonial: https://famewall.healthymindbyavik.com/ #podmatch #regenerativeliving #healthymindbyavik #wellness #mindset #purpose #ecocommunity #intentionalcommunity #regeneration #postcapitalism #consciousliving #costarica #communityfirst #mentalhealth #newparadigm #podcastshow #youtube #linkedin #facebook #instagram #trending #inspiration #healthylife #maratomarov #thearkworld
Pura Vida! We are live from Costa Rica with our good friends Sherri and Zack to chat about their lives as ex-pat Star Wars fans! You'll hear about how Costa Ricans stay looped into Star Wars with a little scoundrel spirit, why howler monkeys sound like angry wookiees, and more guest appearances from insane jungle wildlife than were frankly expected! It's the true Yavin Four experience on this episode!
An anthropologist says polyamorous couples are just as happy as monogamous ones. We pause the podcast, look at each other, and ask: Really? This episode dissects the “biology made me do it” argument—men's visual wiring, women's romance/status pull, jealousy/mate-guarding—and why biology ≠ destiny when you're building a life, not running on instinct. We separate momentary happiness from long-term fulfillment and make the case for choosing one person—on purpose.⏱️ Timestamps (approx.)0:00 – Cold open: “Poly people are happier?” Our gut reaction2:05 – Are humans biologically monogamous or poly? What that even means4:20 – Fatherhood paradox in that interview: “Fathers matter… but also unnecessary?”6:45 – Biology as excuse vs information: why the difference matters9:00 – Men's visual wiring; women's romance/status wiring—temptations aren't symmetric11:25 – Smut novels vs porn: parallel dopamine loops and why both corrode intimacy13:50 – We don't live in nature: the attention economy hijacks instincts (food analogy)16:10 – Jealousy & mate-guarding: the biological clue for monogamy18:35 – History lesson: when polygamy “worked” (war, survival, provisioning)21:00 – Sperm Wars & Selfish Gene: cheater-effects, orgasm odds, replication logic23:40 – Happiness vs fulfillment: short-term highs, long-term emptiness26:15 – “Train the dog” metaphor: we already override biology everywhere else28:10 – Status talk: why a man must carry himself as her highest-status choice30:45 – Spiritual layer great than biology: why real love mutes primitive urges33:20 – The Costa Rican mango analogy: you don't know the ceiling until you find it35:30 – Joint bank accounts, trust, and choosing covenant over “options”38:05 – Why blanket “biology says” claims confuse more than they clarify40:10 – Actionables: protect attention, kill comparisons, build chosen discipline42:00 – Final take: people can live how they want—just don't sell biology as destiny
What happens when you follow your nervous system—not your to-do list? In this heart-opening episode of Your Next Business Bestie, Jordan shares her journey from burnout in tech to building a multi-passionate wellness business rooted in yoga, fertility awareness, and Costa Rican sunshine. We talk about the spiritual side of yoga, the surprising challenges of yin, and how fertility education changed both our lives in ways we never expected. We also dive into the realities of starting over, building peace on your own terms, and living a life aligned with your values—one that actually feels good in your body.
In today's episode, LDG Interviews KC Current/Costa Rican WNT midfielder Rocky Rodriguez and KC Current/USWNT U-23 goalkeeper Laurel Ivory!In this engaging discussion, Laurel and Rocky discuss playing weekly at the first female-specific sporting venue, the new CBA/the importance of player autonomy as an athlete, as well as why The Current was an appealing project and more.Both players discuss everything from their experiences at the international level to who they would choose as the locker room DJ/TikTok dance partners on the Current.Tune in for 35 minutes of laughter, insightful discussion, and to hear behind-the-scenes content of the league (NWSL) that we love!In the rapid-fire section, we get to learn more about Rocky and Laurel off the pitch. As this is our first interview with listener-submitted questions, stay tuned until the rapid-fire section at the end to hear the majority of questions submitted, with some being placed throughout the main portion of the interview.Cover Art Image Credit: Kansas City CurrentThank you for listening! Remember to follow us wherever you get your podcasts, on Instagram (@the_womens_soccer_podcast) and Bluesky (@thewomenssoccerpod.bsky.social). In addition, leave a 5-star review and tell all your friends about our show!
Some moments in life alter the course of who we are. For Ron J Stefanski, that moment came with the heartbreaking loss of his grandmother—a Polish immigrant who had stepped in to raise him after his mother passed, giving his childhood a foundation of love, steadiness, and strength. She was his anchor, his safe place, his teacher in life's truest lessons - lessons that would later deepen his belief in second chances.Her life was taken suddenly and tragically. Such a loss could have left only anger and bitterness behind. Yet Ron, carrying the values she had lived by, chose another way. He resolved to honor her memory not in words alone, but through a life devoted to lifting others up—especially those written off or left behind.Today, with many young people trapped in cycles of incarceration and communities wrestling with the harm caused when young lives are pulled into violence, the need to talk about second chances feels more pressing than ever. Research from the Bureau of Justice Statistics shows that roughly two-thirds of people released from prison are rearrested within three years—a sobering reminder of how far we still have to go in helping people rebuild their lives.But can grief and anger be reshaped into a force for good? And can those who have made painful mistakes find their way to a second chance—becoming, in time, a source of healing for others?In this episode of DisruptED, Ron sits down with John Valverde, President and CEO of YouthBuild Global, for the first in a two-part series. Their conversation is both personal and profound—two men, each shaped by tragedy, exploring the courage it takes to forgive, the responsibility of rebuilding, and the enduring belief that no one should be written off forever.The conversation delves into...John's journey from serving 16 years in prison to leading a global nonprofit, built on the principles of responsibility, service, hope, and creating second chances.The emotional and cultural factors that can drive young people toward destructive choices—and the tools that can help them choose differently.How YouthBuild creates pathways for young people who've been left behind, combining education, career readiness, and leadership development at over 300 sites worldwide.John Valverde is the President and Chief Executive Officer of YouthBuild Global, which partners with young people aged 16–24 who are out of school and out of work, helping them gain the skills, credentials, and confidence to change their lives. Born to Costa Rican immigrants and raised in New York City, John was the first in his family to attend college. At 21, a violent act in response to a loved one's assault led to his incarceration. While serving his sentence, he dedicated himself to education and service, launching programs for fellow inmates and committing to a life of purpose. Since his release, John has become a respected leader in youth empowerment and criminal justice reform, bringing compassion and vision to a global stage.
In this episode of Waypoints, we head to the heart of Central America for a deep dive into one of the most diverse and exciting fly fishing destinations in the world: Costa Rica. Host Jim Klug is joined by Chuck Hill and Marvin Rodriguez, the founders of 4 Corners Costa Rica - an innovative outfitting operation that offers an incredibly-diverse line-up of options and itineraries for fishing this extraordinary country. From the tarpon-filled jungle rivers of the Caribbean coast to the Pacific's roosterfish and bluewater species, 4 Corners has built a seamless, multi-location program that combines serious fishing with immersive cultural experiences. For traveling anglers looking to chase a wide range of exotic species while experiencing the full breadth of Costa Rica's beauty and hospitality, this is the ultimate custom-built adventure.Over the course of the episode, Jim, Chuck, and Marvin explore what makes Costa Rica such a unique angling destination - from the logistics of switching coasts in a single itinerary to the details of their personalized approach to customized trip planning. Listeners will hear about the different fisheries, the species available year-round, the gear needed to target everything from giant tarpon to jungle snook and offshore marlin, and off course advice on how to plan the ultimate Costa Rican getaway. Whether you're a Costa Rica fishing veteran or new to Central American angling, this conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at how 4 Corners is changing the way people experience fly fishing in Costa Rica - one unforgettable corner at a time.After the success of the 2024 Belize and 2023 Baja Bluegrass events, we're excited to bring the experience back to Belize for 2025. Join us November 4–9 at El Pescador Lodge on Ambergris Caye for a five-night, all-inclusive fishing, beach, and bluegrass getaway—exclusively for 30 couples.Waypoints is brought to you by PatagoniaTo bring their gear to life, Patagonia is motivated by relentless curiosity and a passion for the wild. They evaluate hundreds of materials, build dozens of prototypes and spend seasons punishing them in the world's most extreme conditions. The work is the guide, and Patagonia never tires of exploring, learning and improving. Built with innovative materials, intuitive features and a refined fit, their Swiftcurrent® Waders are a better wader experience. Repatterned for bulk reduction, reduced seam stress, increased maneuverability and improved repairability, they move better in and out of the water, carry gear more efficiently and keep tools handy. They're made from recycled materials without intentionally added PFAS—toxic “forever chemicals.- Follow us on Instagram- Follow us on Facebook- Check out our YouTube Page- View the official Yellow Dog website ...
start Lang's Costa Rican vacation00:05:00 FESJC recap00:10:00 MLB oddsWorld Series oddsCy Young Odds00:16:00 NFL preseason highlights00:27:00 AP Top 25 breakdown00:34:00 Who Said It?00:49:00 Fish Nuggets00:54:00 Free picks
Ep. 210 What if a cancelled flight wasn't an inconvenience… but the start of your transformation? In this soul-stirring episode of Healing Her Within, host Maryann Rivera-Dannert takes you deep into the Costa Rican jungle for her first encounter with the sacred plant medicine, Grandmother Ayahuasca. From airport chaos and travel setbacks to a powerful spiritual awakening, Maryann's journey is a masterclass in patience, surrender, and self-discovery. Along the way, she shares how unexpected challenges can be your greatest teachers, why the people around you often reflect the lessons you most need, and how to be gentle with yourself when life doesn't go to plan.
"Alrighty... back to you." Adnan's here for movies and the NL MVP conversation, but the Shipping Container just wants to do smelling salts and take steroids at 2:17 a.m. in the middle of the night at a Costa Rican bachelor party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
MyMusic Podcast with Graham Coath – Featuring FranIn this heartfelt episode of MyMusic, Graham catches up with singer-songwriter Fran, who's currently finding peace and inspiration lakeside in Maine. Known for her rich emotional honesty and powerful vocals, Fran opens up about writing her latest EP, what it meant to put her deepest emotions into words, and the tough call to release a track that still hits hard every time she hears it.The conversation flows through creativity, vulnerability, and the winding journey of self-discovery in music. Fran shares how her time on The Voice USA became a pivotal step—not just in exposure, but in realising what kind of artist she wants to be. Expect talk of tears, tattoos, and the power of passion in music and life.
Need any advice or information, message us.Today, I talk with Bill Graf, the owner and visionary behind Onda Hotel Group. We dive into the current landscape of the Costa Rican hospitality market—both the headwinds and tailwinds—and explore where Bill sees the biggest opportunities. He shares the Onda story so far, how he chooses his hotel locations, and the hard-won lessons along the way. We also unpack the rise and fall of Selina Hostels, and what the industry can learn from it.Free 15 min consultation: https://meetings.hubspot.com/jake806/crconsultContact us: info@investingcostarica.comBill Graf: bill@stayonda.com
Red and black, passion and pride – this week we journey into the heart of Costa Rica to profile LD Alajuelense. From their historic rise in the 1940s to their fierce rivalries and modern-day dominance, we break down what makes "La Liga" the beating heart of Alajuela. Plus, fan stories, legendary matches, and why this club is a cornerstone of Costa Rican football.
This Day in Legal History: Switzerland's Federal CharterOn August 1, 1291, the seeds of what would become modern Switzerland were planted with the signing of the Federal Charter, or Bundesbrief, by the cantons of Uri, Schwyz, and Unterwalden. This wasn't the dramatic formation of a nation-state as we think of it today—it was three rural Alpine communities making a legal pact for mutual defense and cooperation in the face of growing Habsburg pressure. The document itself is barely over 300 words long, written in Latin, and mostly focuses on conflict resolution and how not to stab each other in the back (literally and figuratively). But make no mistake, this was a radical assertion of local legal autonomy during a time when imperial rule was the norm.The Federal Charter stands as an early example of federalism—three small political entities entering into a horizontal, legally binding agreement without ceding total sovereignty to a monarch or emperor. In legal terms, it was more covenant than constitution, but its emphasis on mutual aid, lawful arbitration, and collective security laid the groundwork for Switzerland's famously decentralized structure. The signatories agreed to resist foreign judges and unlawful acts of violence, a precursor to ideas we now enshrine in due process and the rule of law.This wasn't a flashy revolution. There were no declarations of independence or fiery speeches. Just some pragmatic legalese scratched onto parchment that said, in effect, “Let's have each other's backs, settle disputes fairly, and not get bossed around by some distant duke.” Over time, this unassuming agreement evolved into the Swiss model of federalism and neutrality that still defines the nation today. It's not just legal history—it's a reminder that even minimalist governance structures can have maximal staying power.Federal judges who issued rulings against Donald Trump's policies have come forward with disturbing accounts of harassment, threats, and violent intimidation. At a “Speak Up For Justice” event, five judges—including Chief U.S. District Judge John McConnell—described receiving death threats, being targets of “swatting” incidents, and even having pizzas delivered to their homes under the name of a murdered judge's son. McConnell, who blocked a major White House funding freeze earlier this year, disclosed that he received six credible death threats and over 400 hostile voicemails. One threat involved someone searching the dark web for his address, saying they wanted "Smith & Wesson to pay him a visit."Judge John Coughenour, who ruled against Trump's effort to limit birthright citizenship, recounted a terrifying police raid on his home due to a false murder report. The FBI later alerted him to a bomb threat. Despite being appointed by Republican President Reagan, Coughenour criticized political attacks on the judiciary as damaging to democratic institutions. The White House called the threats unacceptable and emphasized the importance of judicial safety. On the same day as the event, the Senate confirmed Trump's nominee Gadyaces Serralta to lead the U.S. Marshals Service, who pledged to prioritize judge protection.By mid-June, 408 threats against 297 judges had been logged in the fiscal year. Judge Esther Salas, whose son was murdered in 2020, praised the speaking judges for breaking their silence in defense of judicial independence.US judges recount death threats, 'swatting' after rulings against Trump | ReutersAccording to exclusive reporting done by Reuters, the U.S. State Department plans to allocate up to $7.85 million to support deportation operations in Costa Rica, marking a significant expansion of American-backed regional immigration enforcement. The funds, redirected from an economic development account, will be transferred to the Department of Homeland Security, which will coordinate with Costa Rican authorities to carry out deportations of migrants—especially those transiting through the country en route to the U.S.This arrangement resembles a 2024 Biden-era agreement with Panama, where the U.S. financed detention and deportation of migrants moving northward. The new Costa Rica program is framed as a capacity-building effort that will fund deportation logistics and training on asylum screening. Still, critics warn it could deny vulnerable populations fair access to asylum protections.The plan follows a Trump administration request earlier in the year for Costa Rica to accept 200 migrants from Africa, Asia, and Europe previously detained in the U.S. Many of them remain in Costa Rica, raising questions about long-term outcomes. Details on when deportations will begin or the final destination countries remain unclear.Officials have also acknowledged that some migrants are now traveling south through Costa Rica, fleeing northward crackdowns and the end of Biden's humanitarian parole options. The agreement does not require a direct connection between the migrant and the country to which they may be deported, a detail likely to fuel ongoing human rights concerns.Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has been visiting countries throughout Latin America to explore similar arrangements, suggesting this may be part of a broader regional deportation strategy under Trump's immigration policy.Exclusive: US plans to fund deportations from Costa Rica, document shows | ReutersThe U.S. Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit closely examined whether President Donald Trump overstepped his authority by using emergency powers to impose sweeping tariffs on foreign imports. The legal challenge, brought by 12 Democratic-led states and five small businesses, centers on Trump's use of the International Emergency Economic Powers Act (IEEPA)—a 1977 law typically used for financial sanctions—to justify tariffs against countries like China, Canada, and Mexico. Judges on the panel, many of whom were appointed by Democratic presidents, expressed skepticism, with one noting the law “doesn't even say tariffs.”This is the first major appellate test of Trump's tariff authority, and it comes just as a deadline approaches for new tariff hikes. Trump has used tariffs aggressively in his second term as both an economic and geopolitical tool, citing trade imbalances and foreign inaction on fentanyl as justifications. The challengers argue that only Congress has the constitutional power to impose tariffs, not the president.While the court has allowed the tariffs to remain in place during the litigation, a final ruling could have major implications. A previous lower court decision had already questioned whether IEEPA allows for tariffs tied to longstanding trade deficits. Meanwhile, tariffs have become a significant revenue source, generating over $100 billion so far this fiscal year—money the administration may need after passing new tax cuts.The case won't affect tariffs enacted under other legal provisions, like those on steel and aluminum. Trump's legal team argues that restricting presidential tariff power would hinder trade negotiations. The president has recently secured agreements with the EU and Japan, and is currently working on deals with Mexico and others to avoid further tariff hikes.US appeals court scrutinizes Trump's use of tariffs as trade deadline looms | ReutersThis week's closing theme is by Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, a composer of some note.This week's closing theme is a bright and confident slice of Mozart at his most charming: the Piano Concerto No. 19 in F major, K. 459, first movement, Allegro. Written in 1784 during a period of remarkable productivity, this concerto is one of the six that Mozart composed that year alone—each one displaying a different facet of his evolving style. No. 19 stands out for its buoyancy and rhythmic vitality; it's elegant without being self-serious, energetic but never frantic.Mozart, still in his late twenties, was performing regularly in Vienna, dazzling audiences with works that showcased both his pianistic skill and his compositional inventiveness. This piece was likely written for one of his own concerts, tailored to suit both his technical flair and his subtle wit. The Allegro opens with a playful orchestral theme, crisp and sunny, which soon gives way to the piano's entrance—graceful, witty, and full of character.There's a conversational quality to the movement: the orchestra tosses out ideas, the piano responds, elaborates, jokes, and dances. But beneath its lightheartedness lies Mozart's usual sophistication: unexpected harmonic turns, rhythmic displacements, and crisp motivic development keep the listener alert. The movement doesn't strive for drama or tragedy—it's pure Mozartian joy, rendered in tight musical logic and unfailing charm.As a closer, it offers an ideal farewell note: upbeat, clean, and full of clarity. You leave the room a little taller, a little lighter, like the music has tidied your thoughts and restored your sense of order. Mozart's No. 19 may not be the flashiest of his concertos, but it radiates something rarer: calm confidence, musical humor, and the sense that everything—at least for a few minutes—is exactly where it should be.Without further ado, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart's Piano Concerto No. 19 in F major, K. 459, first movement, the Allegro. Enjoy! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.minimumcomp.com/subscribe
Our guest this week is a legendary surf filmmaker. He's been instrumental in launching and elevating countless pro surf careers, not just through his iconic SNAPT film franchise, but also as an agent, manager, life coach, therapist, and even bankroller. One of the most unselfish humans we know, he once helped raise money for a prosthetic leg for Costa Rican ripper Daniel Meléndez Dávila.The last few years have been incredibly challenging for him, with a heavy load of family trauma and, on top of that, being robbed of $150,000 by a professional theft ring, which he courageously helped expose and bring to justice.Yet somehow, through all the adversity, he persevered and delivered what might be his most anticipated film yet. We're honored to welcome to the show the man behind the SNAPT surf film, Mr. Logan “CHUCKY” Dulien.
When Christiana Figueres was a young mother, she longed to share her love of nature with her daughters, a love sparked by watching golden toads shimmer like coins under the moonlight in a Costa Rican forest. Hoping to show them this rare beauty, she returned to the same park, only to learn that the species had gone extinct due to rising temperatures. That moment ignited her mission to leave a better planet for her children. In this episode, Christiana joins Ilana to share her journey to becoming a United Nations Climate Change Executive Secretary and leading global climate efforts, including the historic 2015 Paris Agreement. Christiana Figueres is a Costa Rican diplomat and former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). She is best known for her role in securing the Paris Agreement, a landmark international climate treaty. In this episode, Ilana and Christiana will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (01:53) Growing Up as Costa Rica's President's Daughter (06:24) The Life-Changing Experience in Rural Costa Rica (15:28) The Journey to Climate Change Advocacy (24:40) Key Lessons from the COP15 Climate Failure (30:45) Becoming UNFCCC Executive Secretary (35:50) Leading the Paris Agreement Negotiations (41:06) Building Trust in Global Climate Negotiations (47:39) Taking the Climate Mission Beyond the UN (51:03) Advice for Aspiring Change-Makers (54:05) Upcoming Projects and Digital Initiatives Christiana Figueres is a Costa Rican diplomat and former Executive Secretary of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). She is best known for her role in securing the Paris Agreement, a landmark international climate treaty. With decades of experience in climate diplomacy, Christiana is a passionate global advocate for climate action and sustainable development. She is also the co-founder of Global Optimism, co-host of the Outrage + Optimism podcast, and co-author of The Future We Choose. Connect with Christiana: Christiana's Website: christianafigueres.com Christiana's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/christianafigueres Resources Mentioned: Christiana's Book, The Future We Choose: Surviving the Climate Crisis: https://www.amazon.com/Future-We-Choose-Surviving-Climate/dp/0525658351 Christiana's Podcast, Outrage + Optimism: outrageandoptimism.org Global Optimism: globaloptimism.com Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW way for professionals to Advance Their Careers & Make 5-6 figures of EXTRA INCOME in Record Time. Check out our free training today at leapacademy.com/training
What happens when you risk a profitable side hustle for the chance to scale? Maurice Contreras, the founder of Volcanica coffee, spent 15 years building a side hustle and then bet a big portion of his retirement savings and personal funds (plus zero-interest credit cards) to build a 14,000 sq ft roastery after his son pushed him to think bigger. Host Andrea Marquez walks you through how Maurice sketched a full business plan on his flight home from a Costa Rican coffee farm, taught himself HTML, CSS, and SEO to turn a freezer-stocked garage into a booming e-commerce hub, and calculated every penny before deciding that real growth meant risking the comfort of what he'd already built. If you've ever wondered whether comfort is the enemy of growth, Maurice's story proves that the greatest leaps often come when you risk what you've already earned.Got a bold leap of your own? Share it with us in an Apple Podcasts review, Spotify comment, or email us at thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com – you might hear it in a future episode.In this episode, you'll hear: (02:19) Can a seventh-grader selling leather belts foreshadow a lifetime of entrepreneurship? Maurice made his first profit long before college.(04:04) Is marketing billion-dollar brands enough? After two decades in wireless marketing, Maurice felt the pull to build something of his own.(05:28) Can a single trip redefine your career? A Costa Rican coffee-farm visit led Maurice to draft a full business plan on his flight home.(07:19) How do you transform a freezer-stocked garage into an online empire? Maurice taught himself HTML, CSS, and SEO to launch Volcanica's e-commerce hub.(12:14) What tells you it's time to quit your day job? Hitting $100K in net profit – and an office relocation – gave Maurice the push to quit his day job.(15:43) What justifies a nine-month payback on an investment? His son's roasting-plant proposal and razor-sharp profit models made the risk unavoidable.(21:56) How do you juggle rapid growth, family life, and massive overhead? Maurice leveraged retirement funds, credit offers, and bold vision to scale at lightning speed.(25:03) Can calculated risk become your superpower? Maurice reflects on why deep research, resilience, and embracing discomfort are the keys to entrepreneurial growth.
Today, John discusses the challenges and joys of relocating, the importance of community, and the lifestyle changes that come with living in a new country. He reflects on the beauty of the beach life, the culinary delights of Costa Rican food, and the fears he faces about the future. Single On Purpose School starts July 9th! A 6-week program to transform your relationship with yourself and build a life you love — on your terms. SIGN UP HERE Order John's new book, Break Up. On Purpose, HERE Jump into John's new Single. On Purpose app HERE Follow John on Instagram HERE Find out more about John HERE Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Inside the unfolding disaster at the Costa Rican surf favourite, Pavones, with secretary for the local community association, Dominique Pavones. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former pro surfer and Costa Rican local Andrea Díaz joins Holly to discuss how tourism and foreign investment are transforming Costa Rica's coastal communities. Andrea shares her journey from competitive surfing to community advocacy and motherhood, while also highlighting how expats can support sustainable development, respect local culture, and help create conscious and collaborative opportunities for all in Costa Rica.Connect with us at https://surfwithamigas.com/ or @surfwithamigas.Episodes produced and edited by Emma Roggenkamp.
Costa Rica is home to an incredible amount of natural biodiversity. But it's also an ideal spot to grow some of the world's favorite crops, like coffee. How can farmers conserve biodiversity while still meeting global demand for coffee?Today we hear Mariano, an agronomist and coffee producer from Costa Rica, and Javier Peris from Syngenta, about the dynamic relationship between agriculture and biodiversity. ”When you plant a coffee, you spend. 20, 25, 30 years or more with the coffee plant. So that allows you to be part of the ecosystem for all those years. So it's easy to think (in terms of) long term, relationships with the local ecosystems. For example, conservation soil techniques is one of the things that we are doing, and maybe is the main technique or strategy to increase biodiversity and resilience in the local ecosystem that you are producing coffee.” - Mariano, Costa Rican Coffee FarmerMariano is an agronomist whose family has grown coffee in Costa Rica for almost a hundred years. In the past decade, they've really focused on transitioning to more regenerative practices. He explains how they've moved from conventional coffee farming methods to more ecologically-conscious solutions, and what this means for his business and his soil health. Alongside Mariano, you'll hear from Javier Peris, a biologist at Syngenta. Javier has worked with Syngenta for the past ten years, mostly in research and development, but he has recently transition to a new role in sustainability where he is a nature specialist. He describes Syngenta's “Living Grow” program which promotes biodiversity and soil health in agricultural ecosystems while maintaining agricultural productivity. This Week on Soil Sense:Meet Mariano and Javier Peris and learn about how coffee farms can embrace regenerative practicesDiscover the Living Grow program in Costa Rica and the collaboration taking place to help farmers boost productivity while conserving biodiversityExplore why Javier calls Mariano's farm “like another world” Understand the connection between soil health and overall biodiversityThe Soil Sense podcast is for those that believe building healthier soils is not just a prescription, but rather a pursuit. On this show, we unpack the way farmers collaborate to build healthier soils and adapt systems to work on their farm for both sustainability and profitability.Thank you to Syngenta for sponsoring this season of the Soil Sense podcast. If you are interested in what soil health looks like in practice and on the farm, please subscribe and follow this show on your favorite podcast app, and leave us a rating and review while you're there!
Sleep better and Stress Less— with Abide, a Christian meditation app that provides a biblically grounded place to experience peace and progress in your relationship with Christ. We hope this biblical sleep meditation, narrated by Chloë Elmore, helps your body relax and your mind rest on the truth found in scripture. Take a peaceful and aromatic tour of a Costa Rican coffee farm as you think about being a pleasing aroma of Christ to those around you. For a 30 day free trial of our premium ad-free content, your trusted friend for better sleep is right here: https://abide.com/peaceDiscover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us
Ana spent some time in Costa Rica over the weekend for a bachelorette party. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this episode of the Bear Grease Podcast host Clay Newcomb interviews self-proclaimed hybrid of a Costa Rican and a redneck, Pablo Esquivel. Pablo shares about his life growing up in Costa Rica with a love of the outdoors to the process of his immigration to the United States, gaining citizenship, and finding a passion in whitetail deer hunting. He talks about the follies and successes in his journey to become a better hunter and the impact that his hunting mentors have had on him. If you have comments on the show, send us a note to beargrease@themeateater.com Connect with Clay and MeatEater Clay on Instagram MeatEater on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and YouTube Clips MeatEater Podcast Network on YouTubeSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fall asleep fast, and enjoy a night of deep sleep with this 15 minute guided meditation. In this practice you begin by softening your body and quieting your mind with a counting breath, and then you will drift off to sleep with a journey through the Costa Rican jungle. New Retreat- Awakened Alignment Feb 4-9, 2026 in Costa Rica Code EARLYBIRD saves you $200 More Mindful in Minutes Join the free 5-day Nervous system reset to overcome overwhelm Books Order Meditation For The Modern Family You Are Not Your Thoughts: An 8-Week Anxiety Guided Meditation Journal **Download 4 sample days from You Are Not Your Thoughts Here** Join MIM on Patreon here Order Meditation For The Modern Family Let's Connect Email Kelly your questions at info@yogaforyouonline.com Follow Kelly on instagram @yogaforyouonline Please rate, subscribe and review (it helps more than you know!) Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
El 10 de abril de 1981, una caravana acaparó la atención de Costa Rica. Viajó desde la frontera con Nicaragua hasta la ciudad de Alajuela, donde entregaría los restos de los héroes de una guerra que se había peleado hacía más de un siglo, entre ellos los de Juan Santamaría, uno de los símbolos más importantes de la identidad costarricense. Esa llegada se pintó como una celebración, pero terminó siendo una vergüenza. En nuestro sitio web puedes encontrar una transcripción del episodio. Or you can also check this English translation. ♥ Aquí estamos y no nos vamos. Hoy, más que nunca, confirmamos nuestro compromiso contigo: narrar con el mejor periodismo que podamos América Latina y las comunidades latinas de Estados Unidos. Ayúdanos a hacerlo uniéndote a Deambulantes, nuestras membresías. Hemos logrado mucho, pero aún quedan muchas historias por contar. ★ 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. On April 10, 1981, a caravan captured the attention of Costa Rica. It traveled from the border with Nicaragua to the city of Alajuela, where it would deliver the remains of the heroes of a war that had been fought more than a century earlier, among them those of Juan Santamaría, one of the most important symbols of Costa Rican identity. That arrival was portrayed as a celebration, but it ended up being an embarrassment.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.