Viva Tropical

Peter Chapman Financial Times reporter and author of Bananas joins the show to discuss the subject of his book. The rise of one of the most powerful companies in the world during the early to mid 1900's The United Fruit Company. Listen how the creator of the Banana Republic and purveyor of the yellow fruit would stop at nothing to maintain control of their business.For 100 years the company controlled most of Central America, they rigged elections and massacred people, while building a banana empire.It is a fascinating story and has inspired many from the Latin region to speak up, from Che Guevara to Pablo Neruda. Peter also talks about how United Fruit set the blue print for all multinational companies today. Enjoy the show.

Free diving championships in Greece, 2500ft under water in a DIY submarine, and learning the language of whales. Author of Deep, Free Diving, Renegade Science, and What the Ocean Tells Us about Our Selves, James Nestor joins the show. Listen as he describes his journey from surface dweller to swimming with Sperm whales. James also tells us that he learned the human body is uniquely adapted to the underwater environment. Tune to hear all this and more and add a little adventure to your day.

In this episode we cover The Southern Zone of Costa Rica, an area on the Pacific coast stretching from Manual Antonio south to the border of Costa Rica and Panama.Casey Stamps, investment specialist, comes back on to do a deep dive into this very large and diverse region. We discuss building costs, where he thinks the opportunities are located, what is making this region grow, and the investment and buying strategies that are working today. We also discuss who would really love this stretch of coast and why.

Mayan Scholar Dave Schaefer drops by to discuss the Mayan calendar, The Mayan creation book the Popol Vuh, and how modern Mayan people aren't being recognized. Dave talks with Josh about his favorite ruins and how he got started studying Mayan hieroglyphs in Guatemala. If you are interested in Mayan history or just want an introduction to Mesoamerican culture this show is for you.

Learn what you need to know before you build the house of your dreams in the Latin Tropics.Scott Nichols joins the podcast to discuss his trials and tribulations of the building process in Central America. He is currently in the middle of building a house and stopped by to tell us what he has learned so far. Josh and him discuss how to find a builder, what to know before you design a house, and why certain materials are more expensive. A must listen for anyone who is considering building a house in the Latin Tropics for living or investment.

Ecuador has a ton of coastline, but much of it isn't good for beach living due to high cliffs and industrial activities. Park and I explored Ecuador from tip to tip and covered the entire coastline. What we found was there are several spots that could be perfect to live and you have to know what is happening locally to determine where is best. So today we are speaking with Greg Gilliam long time Ecuador expat about how to approach the Ecuador market and where you should focus your time when looking for your own paradise. Greg is a builder, hotel owner, and real estate entrepreneur, who has lots of experience and a straightforward approach you are sure to learn from on the show.

John Acott long time broker in Belize tells you what is happening. Learn how much it costs to build in Belize, where the top 3 places to live and invest are located. Also a major infrastructure change on the horizon that if happens will be something you need to hear. John is from the San Ignacio, which is rarely covered and from all accounts seems to be a tremendous value for living. Tune to hear all this and more.

Murder Confessions, 300 LB Tunas, and 9mm Barettas, all make appearances when Josh and Park recount some of their stories from the road. They have experienced many different colorful situations over the years while scouting out real estate investments.Maybe the greatest job in the world, Park and Josh reminisce about some of their most memorable days while exploring the far reaches of Central America in their search for the best real estate on offer.

Author Jonathon Weisberger joins the show to discuss his experience living and helping the Secoya people. What happens to culture, life, and spirituality when they develop within the jungle away from modern life. Jonathon discusses what he learned and why he continues to work with the Secoya elders. He also talks about how others can experience their sacred Ayahuasca/Yage ceremonies. Listen and enjoy an amazing opportunity to get a glimpse into a another world.

On this episode we discuss Nicaragua and all its awesome potential. Barry Oliver real estate professional has over 10 years of experience in the country and it will make a difference if you are considering buying or investing there.One of the safest countries in Central America, Nicaragua is often overlooked because of its turbulent history and lack of organization. Today's situation is much different and many have already discovered why this is one of the best options for living in Central America.Tune in now and hear where the investment opportunities are located, how much it costs to build, how much beachfront property costs, and who buys in the biggest country in Central America.