The Gringa & Local Belize

In this episode, we sit down with Justin Solis, a Belizean by descent and American by birth, to dive deep into the "Belizean-American Dream." Justin shares his journey from his upbringing in the U.S. to starting Belize's first vegan and cold-pressed juice eatery. Hear about his challenges, culture shocks, and triumphs as he navigates both American corporate life and Belizean entrepreneurship.

Topics we cover: 🌍 The Belizean dream of moving abroad to "get ahead" 🌱 Starting and maintaining a business in Belize 💼 Transitioning from minimum-wage jobs to global tech sales 🍽️ Justin’s top mainland and island tours and eateries 🏝️ The one thing he'd change if he were mayor of the island

Don’t miss Justin’s inspiring journey, packed with insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, expats, and anyone intrigued by life in Belize. Hit Subscribe for more candid conversations about Belizean life!

Find Juice Alive here:

Website: https://www.juicedive.com

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/juicedive?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/juicedive?igsh=eXZibWh2dXFsOGF3

Where to Find us:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegringaandlocal/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegringaandlocal

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tgalbz

TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@tglbelize

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://the-gringa-local-belize.captivate.fm

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gringa-local-belize/id1709718641

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5i5DS3J1AuuaLPBUxlPhe4?si=5e8b077b2f154dac

TIMESTAMPS:

00:00 - Introducing the EP

1:54 - How Job Met Justin

2:27 - How Rachel Met Justin

3:20 - Justin's Work Background

5:46 - Belizean Patriac

7:47 - Connecting to your Belizean Heritage

9:07 - A Business Epiphany

11:20 - Starting a Business in Belize

14:34 - keeping Belize Start up Cost Low

16:01 - How to make money in Belize

18:31 - Belize Culture Shocks & Getting Stir crazy

20:12 - Belize Business Industry Shocks

21:46 - Veganism in Belize

23:42 - Travelling Beyond Belize

30:33 - Island & Mainland Must Do & Eatery

35:20 - Major for a Day

36:49 - Concluding

#BelizePodcast #BelizeLifestyle #JustinSolis #BelizeanAmericanDream #TravelBelize #BelizeBusiness #belize #belizevacation #travelbelize #traveltobelize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize

(WATCH THE YOUTUBE VERSION FOR THE DIVING VIDEOS)- Belize: A Diving Mecca! Diving enthusiasts from all over the world travel to Belize yearly to experience its wonders for themselves, often returning multiple times over their lifetimes. With the second-largest barrier reef in the world, three of the four atolls in the Western Hemisphere, the Belize Blue Hole, and hundreds of diving sites in the reef, Belize is unparalleled.

In this episode, we literally dive into the captivating tale of Ian Oliva, who was born into the diving community. Starting off at the young age of 11, Ian's journey into diving is both attention grabbing and educational.

When we say Ian is a pro, we mean it. Explore his story, the incredible places he's visited, his extensive diving knowledge, and the wonders he's encountered beneath the waves.

Follow Belize Pro Dive Center (the Dive company Ian works at):

On Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BelizeProDiveCenter

On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/belizeprodivecenter/ 

Website: https://belizeprodivecenter.com/

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Raised in Belize, to an American Island Music Icon (Dennis Wolfe) and a Belizean Mom. Dennis Wolfe II, is perhaps one of the most loved & known musicians in San Pedro.

He sits with us on this 30 minute chat where he shares his strong family Island history, a bit of his dad's legacy, growing in the island, moving to the states to finally come back home, the place he belongs!

Join us on this fantastic journey as we get to know an Icon of the island!

Watch Episode On Youtube:

https://youtu.be/PpFvHR4vwHU

Vibe Again / Music Video:

https://youtu.be/c80sNjNyZnc?si=bpkV8Ex5gdlmU5Xi

Gringo In Belize Song:

https://youtu.be/KLyEod3uly8?si=mXSaMXoEyZ0TtS_I

#ambergris #ambergriscaye #belize #sanpedrobelize #travelbelize #visitbelize #belizeliving #belizepodcast #belizelifestyle #belizepodcast #gringoinbelize

To wrap up we asked Dr. Renae 2 questions: what is her favourite Island meal & What is 1 thing she would change/improve about San Pedro. Her answer will surprise you!

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How can Belize improve your health? What locals & expats should be aware of and check with their health as they progress in life. What are must knows about hospice/ end of life care availability in Belize? All that we touch base with the lovely Doctor Renae (GP).

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Essential Tips for Seamless Healthcare Transition! The esteemed Dr. Renae provides a comprehensive overview of Medication, Health Services, Insurance, and ER in Belize. Recognizing that individual needs vary, there's one crucial takeaway: consult with a Belize doctor and facilitate communication between your US-based doctor and Belize GP. Ensuring your well-being is prioritized locally, and you're fully informed and prepared for any future health scenarios!

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Join Dr. Renae as she shares her personal journey and insights on becoming a GP license to practice in Belize. A must watch video!

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Dr. Renae’s journey to Belize could not be made up, it is very interesting! We won’t spill the details on her journey as you’ll have to watch part 1. She shares her first years in Belize, her accomplishments and evolving from a medical student to a teacher, mom & Subsequently getting her license in Belize but that is part 2. So stay tuned.

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Rachel is BACK! We board 2 major topics. What is it like coparenting with a Belizean & Why do we see a large number of Belizeans becoming parents at a young age? Cultural differences & much more!

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Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegringaandlocal/

Follow us on Tiktok: http://www.tiktok.com/@tglbelize

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gringa-local-belize/id1709718641

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5i5DS3J1AuuaLPBUxlPhe4?si=5e8b077b2f154dac

00:00 - Co Parenting with a Belizean

11:30 - Why are Belizeans Becoming Parents at a young age?

#ambergris #ambergriscaye #belize #sanpedrobelize #travelbelize #visitbelize #belizeliving #belizepodcast #belizelifestyle #belizelifestyle

We literally plunge into our unforgettable moments from our travels and explorations in Belize. Join us for a blend of personal stories, first-time adventures, and hilarious anecdotes that will leave you both entertained and inspired. Discover the must-have experiences and get ready to create your own unforgettable memories.

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Email us: [email protected]