PODCAST PORTUGAL

Remote work has transformed how and where we work, yet finding a productive, affordable place outside the home or office remains a challenge for many professionals. In this episode of Podcast Portugal , we speak with Charles from DeskAmigo , the platform redefining flexible workspaces by connecting remote workers with under-used tables in cafés, restaurants and hotels. Built on a simple but powerf...

Why Gut Health Matters for Mental Clarity, Resilience and Long-Term Health In this episode of Podcast Portugal, I’m joined by Margarida Beja, a registered dietitian specialising in gastroenterology at Flowin Clinics, to explore the powerful link between gut health, mental wellbeing, and human performance. ‍ ‍ We dive into the gut–brain axis, how modern diets are disrupting the microbiome, the role...

In this landmark episode of Podcast Portugal , we sit down with former England international rugby union player Dan Luger to reflect on an extraordinary career at the highest level of the game and to explore the next chapter of his life, increasingly shaped by Portugal, surfing and lifestyle transition. Despite a career repeatedly challenged by injury, Dan Luger’s international record remains exce...

In this episode of Podcast Portugal, host Justin West sits down with former pro surfer turned tech innovator, José “Zé” Ferreira, the co-founder of SurfREC — Portugal’s cutting-edge automated surf filming system now operating at Ribeira d’Ilhas and Carcavelos. Zé shares his journey from elite athlete to entrepreneur, how SurfREC’s robotic AI-powered cameras capture every wave with precision, and w...

In Episode 49 of Podcast Portugal , Justin welcomes Dr Vera Azevedo , anthropologist, researcher, and author of the groundbreaking book “Zone de Impact: Surf e Patrimonialização do Mar na Ericeira” . In this compelling conversation, Dr Azevedo explores the deep cultural, historical, and economic forces shaping Portugal’s surfing landscape. The discussion traces the evolution of surfing in Portugal...

In this episode of Podcast Portugal, Justin sits down with Colin Byrne — Serpico Ninja — a renowned MMA coach known for his influential work with Conor McGregor’s team during McGregor’s rise to global dominance. Together, they explore the surprising overlap between elite MMA coaching and high-level surf performance: skill acquisition, movement intelligence, conditioning, and periodisation systems...

If you’re hearing this podcast right now, it’s thanks to Starlink. Out here in rural Alentejo, reliable internet used to be a constant battle — but Starlink has completely changed the game. The speeds are fast, the setup was unbelievably simple, and the customer service has been excellent from day one. For anyone working remotely, especially in rural or hard-to-reach areas, it’s genuinely a lifeli...

In this episode of Podcast Portugal , we sit down with Kelly Dugmore , from Algarve Care Services (ACS) , to explore the deeply human issues of loneliness, caregiving, and dementia. Inspired by ACS’s newly launched “Share Bear Campaign,” Kelly discusses how the initiative seeks to bring warmth, connection, and visibility to people who may feel isolated—especially those living alone or navigating m...

In this compelling interview, Portugal-based listeners of Podcast Portugal will discover how the concept of family life on the move has matured into a holistic lifestyle. Mauro Repacci shares his vision behind Boundless Life: enabling families to travel long-term without sacrificing career momentum, children’s education or a sense of belonging .  We begin by unpacking the core challenge that...

In this episode of Podcast Portugal , we sit down with Lisbon-born entrepreneur André Castro , whose remarkable journey has taken him from the streets of San Francisco to the serene coastlines of the Algarve. André shares how more than a decade abroad shaped his perspective on business, creativity, and the meaning of home. We discuss the lessons travel can teach about adaptability and innovation,...

Reframing Portugal’s past through culture, memory, and the Lusophone imagination In this thought-provoking episode, host Justin West is joined by Dr Andrew João Carvalho Nunes , an interdisciplinary scholar exploring how Portugal remembers — and sometimes forgets — its complex past. From monuments and graffiti to Fado under Salazar, Justin and Andrew unpack how art, politics, and heritage continue...

This week on Podcast Portugal , we sit down with Laura Taborda — Portuguese national steeplechase champion and professional Adidas athlete — to explore the rhythm of an athlete’s life both on and off the track. Laura opens up about training schedules, recovering from injury, and the balance between fragility and strength that defines an elite runner’s mindset. We discuss the power of consistency ,...

In Episode 41 of Podcast Portugal, Ana Caramujo, founder of Savvy Cat Realty, shares her inspiring origin story and mission to redefine relocation services for those moving to Portugal. Ana dives deep into the common hurdles expats face and how Savvy Cat Realty uniquely supports clients throughout these challenges. This episode is a must-listen for anyone considering a move, real estate investment...

What does it really mean to share your life, space, and daily rhythm with others in a modern community setting? In this episode of Podcast Portugal , we speak with the founder of satvillage.com , a pioneering project redefining how people live together in Portugal. From the benefits of connection, sustainability, and shared resources, to the practical questions of privacy, conflict resolution, and...

In this episode of Podcast Portugal , host Justin West speaks with Dr Sara Marilyn Jesus, physician and wellness advocate, about the simplest and most effective steps we can all take to optimise our health. From practical biohacks that are within everyone’s reach to the importance of lifestyle and preventative care, Dr Jesus offers valuable insights that challenge the over-reliance on medication i...

Chef Nuno Mendes shares his journey from the USA to London’s Michelin-starred kitchens and back to Portugal. From his acclaimed projects Cozinha das Flores (Porto) , Santa Joana (Lisboa) , and The Rose Deal , as well as co-founder of Lisboeta London to his book Lisboeta , Nuno reflects on the experiences that shaped his success and his mission to showcase Portuguese cuisine to the world. @nunoviaj...

In this episode, we welcome Chris Jones , author of Meet the Tugas and founder of Portuguese company Paco Services . His book takes listeners on a sweeping journey across Portugal — from volcanic islands and sunlit vineyards to centuries-old villages and bustling cities. Drawing on three years of travels across every corner of the country, Chris reveals Portugal’s grandeur and pride, exploring the...

In this episode of Podcast Portugal , Justin is joined by Andre from Walking with Andre for a rich conversation that takes us through the streets of Lisbon — from its historical quarters, museums, and art galleries to the lasting legacy of the devastating Lisbon earthquake. Along the way, we explore the Portuguese mentality, cultural identity, and the unique rhythm of life in Portugal. We also div...

In this episode of Podcast Portugal , we welcome Louie Silva , the creator behind Louie in Portugal on YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok. Louie shares his personal journey of moving from the United States back to his homeland of Portugal. He tells us about meeting his American wife, their decision to settle in Portugal, and how he began documenting everyday life here. Through his content, Louie gives...

Join us for an exhilarating conversation with Ricardo Jorge Correia —also known as “El Professor”—the visionary founder of Adamastor Swim Adventures . With a Sports Science degree, over 200 open-water and triathlon races, and years coaching since 1997, Ricardo has transformed his passion into epic swimming holidays , swim tours , and clinics along Portugal’s Algarve coast and the Azores. In this e...

In this episode of Podcast Portugal, we’re joined by Bárbara Messias, activist and team member of PsychedeliCare — a groundbreaking European Citizens’ Initiative calling for the legalisation and regulation of psychedelic-assisted therapy across the EU. We explore why Portugal — with its progressive drug policy — could play a key role in the movement. We also dive into the challenges of stigma, the...

From Pico to the World: Valuing Local Produce, Promoting Sustainability, and Honouring Açorean Culinary Traditions at Bioma Restaurant  A conversation from Pico with Bioma, exploring how valuing local produce, respecting nature, and sustainable practices create an authentic Açorean dining experience. In this episode of Podcast Portugal, we travel to the island of Pico to visit Bioma, a restau...

In this hilarious and heartwarming episode of Podcast Portugal , we sit down with The Portuguese Kids — the comedy troupe turning Portuguese-American life into laugh-out-loud moments. From growing up in immigrant households to bringing cultural pride to sold-out shows across North America, these lifelong friends have built a global community by celebrating everything Avo says . We talk origins, ac...

In this deliciously inspiring episode of Podcast Portugal, we meet Rita Nascimento — the heart and hands behind @LaDolceRita on Instagram and La Dolce Rita on YouTube. A classically trained pastry chef turned bestselling author and digital creator, Rita has built a dream career teaching the joy of pastry to thousands across Portugal and beyond. But her sweet life didn’t start with sugar and succes...

In this powerful episode of Podcast Portugal, we sit down with Steven Eugene Kuhn—decorated U.S. Army combat veteran, global entrepreneur, and co-founder of NovaScale Partners. With over $700M in business deals across ten countries and a direct line once to the White House, Steven shares the raw and unfiltered reality of war, politics, and the road to purpose-driven success. What begins as a story...