The Gringa & Local Belize

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

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

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

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

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

The information provided through our podcast and publications is for general informational purposes only. Any actions you take—or choose not to take—based on this content are entirely at your own risk, and we are not liable for any resulting loss or damage.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Gringa and Local Belize Podcast or its affiliates. This content should not be interpreted as financial, economic, legal, tax, or professional advice of any kind.

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared.

Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

#FlyFishingBelize #BelizePodcast #SanPedroBelize #Bonefish #Tarpon #TheGringaAndTheLocal #FishingLife #BelizeWildlife #BelizeCulture #belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving

The Belizean Scientist 🎙️ – Valentine Rosado

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Thu, 29 May 2025 00:00:00 -0600

In this inspiring and eye-opening episode, we sit down with Valentine Rosado, a proud Belizean and accomplished marine biologist, to explore his journey, his mission, and the science behind protecting Belize’s precious marine ecosystems.

Valentine shares how he discovered his passion for marine biology and walks us through his educational and professional path—spanning the private sector, government, and nonprofit work. We dive into how these sectors collaborate (and sometimes clash) in the realm of environmental policy, and how real estate development intersects with sustainability.

🪸 From mangrove preservation to the state of our coral reefs, Valentine explains the challenges Belize faces and what real estate agents, developers, and everyday citizens can do to help. He offers expert insight into conservation planning, Belizean environmental laws, and the role of responsible investment in preserving our natural beauty.

🌊 We tackle some tough questions:

– Are we too far gone to reverse environmental damage?

– What are king tides, and how are storms and climate change impacting the Caribbean?

– What’s the difference between Sargasso (good) and Sargassum (bad), and how can communities manage it?

Valentine also gets personal—sharing why San Pedro feels like home, his favorite Belizean dishes, and the one thing he’d change if he were mayor of the island. Plus, he opens up about his nonprofit work focused on mentoring and developing the next generation of Belizean scientists.

This episode is a deep dive into science, community, and the soul of Belize. Whether you're a traveler, expat, local, or nature lover—this one’s for you.

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that explore the heart of Belize, its people, and its future.

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

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

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

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

The information provided through our podcast and publications is for general informational purposes only. Any actions you take—or choose not to take—based on this content are entirely at your own risk, and we are not liable for any resulting loss or damage.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Gringa and Local Belize Podcast or its affiliates. This content should not be interpreted as financial, economic, legal, tax, or professional advice of any kind.

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared.

Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

#belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving #MarineBiology #BelizePodcast #ValentineRosado #Conservation #SanPedroBelize #Mangroves #Sargassum #EnvironmentalLaw #TheGringaAndTheLocal #BelizeReef #BelizeScience #CaribbeanClimate #Sustainability

The Belizean Thousandaire: Ivan’s Rise from Barback to Bar Boss

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 00:00:00 -0600

From Benque to San Pedro: Ivan’s Belizean Success Story

In this episode of The Gringa & The Local, we chat with Ivan Luna — a born-and-raised Belizean from the small border town of Benque Viejo del Carmen. Ivan shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

You’ll hear about:

His childhood and how he earned the nickname Ivan the Terrible
Climbing the hospitality ladder from barback to co-owner of Crocs Sports Bar
The mindset, work ethic, and lessons that fueled his growth
Throwback stories from island life
His passion for community and advice for aspiring Belizean entrepreneurs
His favorite local spots and what he’d improve about San Pedro if he were mayor

It’s a down-to-earth conversation full of laughs, inspiration, and love for Belize. Tune in for a real-deal story of grit, gratitude, and growth.

🎧 The Gringa & The Local — where Belizean stories come to life.

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

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

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

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared.

Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

#belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving

A San Pedrana's Memoir - Meet Patty Arceo

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Thu, 06 Mar 2025 02:00:00 -0600

Join us for an inspiring and in-depth conversation with Patty Arceo, a born-and-raised San Pedrana from one of the island’s pioneering families. In this episode, Patty takes us on a journey through her life—sharing stories of her upbringing, community service, and leadership that shaped San Pedro and Caye Caulker.

RECORDED ON SEPTEMBER 2024

🌟 What You'll Hear in This Episode:

🔹 The history of Boca del Rio and San Pedro’s early days

🔹 Her family's legacy in community service and politics

🔹 The 28+ projects she spearheaded in Caye Caulker & San Pedro

🔹 The creation of Secret Beach and the Belizean housing project

🔹 Her views on local traditions, land rights, and Belizean culture

🔹 A heartfelt message to the people of San Pedro

Patty shares wisdom, nostalgia, and a call to action for the younger generation to stay informed and engaged in shaping the future of Belize.

📢 Hit that subscribe button and join us as we uncover the incredible stories that make Belize the special place it is!

🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube!

The Gringa & Local Belize Podcast - Belize Lifestyle & Experiences

Host: Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

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

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

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 - Introduction

1:02 - Who is Patty Arceo?

8:56 - Her development in leadership roles

12:29 - Her Studies & time in Politics

23:30 - Laws and process Overview for Belizean first time land ownership

29:17 - Her Focus & Dreams

38:36 - Island Traditions dear to her

44:42 - The peace and warmth of Belize

46:02 - Her Favourite Island Dishes

51:33 - Her Mainland Visits Memoir

54:03 - Her Message to San Pedro Residents

58:00 - If she were Mayor for a day. What would she improve?

59:21 - Patty Arceo Post Politics & Now ‘Retirement’

64:28 - Conclusion

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared. Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

#belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving #SanPedroBelize #BelizePodcast #BelizeHistory #TheGringaAndLocal #PattyArceo #AmbergrisCaye #CayeCaulker #SecretBeach

The Ambergris Caye of Today

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Thu, 20 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0600

🎙️ Exploring San Pedro’s Ambergris Caye Past & Present with Dorian Nuñez

In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, with island native Dorian Nuñez—writer, historian, and founder of Ambergris Today news paper & publication and I Travel Belize.

🗣️ What’s Inside?

✅ The history of Ambergris Today

✅ San Pedro’s Carnaval & Comparsas traditions

✅ Island Icons

✅ Dorian’s van life & Belize travel adventures

✅ San Pedro’s fight against offshore drilling

✅ Hidden island & mainland gems

✅ What would Dorian change if he were Mayor of San Pedro?

Find Dorian's work here:

Ambergris Today:

Website: https://ambergristoday.com/

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

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

I Travel Belize:

Website: https://itravelbelize.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/15wYwwu95F/?mibextid=wwXIfr

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itravelbelize?igsh=MTltd253YzBqcWlpZw==

📌 Subscribe for more Belize stories! Don’t miss out on insider insights, local culture, and travel tips straight from the experts. Hit LIKE & COMMENT—we love hearing from you!

The Gringa & Local Belize Podcast - Belize Lifestyle & Experiences

Host: Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

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

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

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

TIMESTAMP:

00:00 - Intro

1:25 - Who is Dorian Nunez

2:53 - About Ambergris Today

7:10 - Carnaval & Comparsas

11:21 - 25 years ago - The book

15:44 - Who was Mr. Angel Nunez? (Dorian's Dad)

21:27- Back in the Day - Throwback pictures

25:15 - An Island Icon: Jaguars Temple Night Club

27:10 - What is Dorian up to now?

27:54 - The Vegan Lifestyle in San Pedro Belize

30:33 - Sailing the Reef

32:06 - I travel Belize - Van Life

34:19 - Revamping Ambergris Today Website

38:23 - Independent’s Day Carnaval in San Pedro

40:46 - The fight Against Offshore drilling

47:05 - Favourite Island Spot

49:36 - Favourite Mainland Spot

50:34 - Being Seasick

52:00- If you were mayor of San Pedro, what would be 1 thing you would improve or change?

55:51 - Final thoughts

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared.

Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

#belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving #Belize #SanPedro #AmbergrisCaye #BelizePodcast #ITravelBelize

Belize through a Kids Eyes: Island Adventures of Elsa & Buggy

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Thu, 30 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0600

From catching lobster to making friends through fútbol (soccer) these kids are living the ultimate Belizean dream. Watch now and get inspired! Meet Elsa & Buggy, daughters of our previous guest: Jodi, a mom who moved to Belize from Montana. These two adventurous twins live a life full of Snorkeling, soccer, and sea adventures! 🏄‍♂️⚽🐠

In this episode, they share:

✅ Learning Creole from local kids 🇧🇿

✅ Life as homeschoolers & playing in local soccer tournaments ⚽

✅ Fishing, cooking, and helping on catamaran tours 🎣⛵

✅ Their favourite food spots & island activities 🍛

✅ Advice for families with kids moving to Belize 🌎

The Gringa & Local Belize Podcast - Belize Lifestyle & Experiences

Host: Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

Contact The Schell Family Business info:

Schell Bound Adventures

Whatsapp:

+501 670-1108

Email:

Chubs@schellboundadventures.com

Website:

https://schellboundadventures.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565799006578

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

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

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

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared.

Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

Montana to Belize: A Family's Journey to Island Life 🌴

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Fri, 17 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0600

What happens when a Montana mom of three takes a leap of faith to try Belize for a year? Meet Jodi Schell and her adventurous family, who swapped the mountains for the beach and discovered a whole new way of life. From raising twins on the island to Chubs' (her son) water adventures and starting a catamaran tour company, this episode dives deep into their exciting six-year journey.

✨ Here's what we cover:

From Montana to Belize: Their first impressions and experiences

Life in Montana vs. Belize

Raising kids in a child-centered culture

Adventures beyond the reef 🌊

Belizean food, culture, and challenges

Building a new life in paradise

Discover how their vacations turned into a lifestyle, the highs and lows of expat life, and what they’d change if they were mayor of San Pedro!

🎧 Listen now for inspiring stories and insider tips about Belizean life, and don't forget to subscribe for more captivating episodes!

The Gringa & Local Belize Podcast

Belize Lifestyle & Experiences

Host: Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

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

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

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

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared.

Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

MEET NICK FROM THE BTIA

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Thu, 31 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

🎙️ Dive into Belize’s Tourism Industry with Nicholas Scavone | BTIA (SAN PEDRO CHAPTER) Chairman Interview 🇧🇿

In this episode, we sit down with Nicholas Scavone, the current chairman of the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA - SAN PEDRO CHAPTER), to explore the heart of Belize's tourism sector. 🏝️ Learn about the BTIA’s role in bridging the public and private sectors, how it advocates for industry growth, and the challenges of leading tourism efforts in a dynamic environment.

Beyond the industry talk, Nick shares personal insights on what brought him to Belize, his experiences in property management and hospitality, and his must-try local restaurants 🍽️. We even ask the BIG question: If Nick were mayor of San Pedro, what would he change? 🗳️

Whether you're in the tourism field, planning a trip, or just curious about life in Belize, this episode delivers expert insights, inspiring stories, and local gems. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that bell icon for more! 🚀

🎧 Listen now and uncover Belize from the inside!

🔗 BTIA Links:

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

Website: https://www.btia.org/

Belize Lifestyle & Experiences

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal

Find & Save our Platforms info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Gringa and Local, Job Mendizabal or Rachel Jensen. This content should not be interpreted as financial, economic, legal, tax, or professional advice of any kind.

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared.

Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

ACES WILDLIFE RESCUE

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Thu, 10 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0600

In this episode, we sit down with Ben Sept, a dedicated board member and full-time volunteer at ACES Wildlife Rescue, a non-profit organization permitted by the Belize Forest Department.

Originally from Canada, Ben visited belize for 6 months, little did they know that 2 months in they would realize that Belize was going to be their new permanent home. They moved to Belize in 2015 with his wife and three kids, and soon after, the entire family became deeply involved with ACES.

But what exactly is ACES, and who are the people behind it? Ben shares the inspiring story of Christina and Chris, the passionate pillars, who have dedicated their lives to giving the island's wildlife a voice and a safe haven. He reflects on his personal journey to Belize, his work with the rescue team, and the challenges they face protecting local wildlife, particularly the crucial role that crocodiles play in the ecosystem.

Ben takes us down memory lane, recounting his encounters with the island’s unique wildlife and sharing the tireless efforts that go into ACES' rescue missions. We also explore the impact of local development on wildlife and discuss how we, as a community, can help ACES continue their critical work.

With the recent passing of Chris, this episode serves as a tribute to his remarkable legacy and the urgent need for continued support for ACES.

We’ve included timestamps (bottom of the descriptions) to help guide you through this special, extended episode—one that is essential viewing for anyone who cares about the future of wildlife and the environment on the island.

Join us as we raise awareness and learn how you can volunteer or contribute to this incredible cause.

Want to volunteer or donate to ACES?

Contact info: +501 623-7920

Info@AcesBelize.org

Donate (US tax deductible): AcesWildlifeRescue.org/donate

Donate in belize to our Atlantic Bank account:

Aces Wildlife Rescue

2110007416

Follow them on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AcesWildlifeRescue?mibextid=LQQJ4d

Biggest donors:

Fondation Brigitte Bardot

SPCA - International

ECI Development

The Truck Stop

FOLLOW US:

The Gringa & Local Belize Podcast

Belize Lifestyle & Experiences

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

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

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

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/ CHAPTERS:

00:00 - What & Who is Aces?

04:12 - Crocs at ACES care

08:18 - Crocs & Humans In the Island

12:07 - Positive Encounters W/Aces

14:19 - Crocs Intelligence & Education in the Island

19:10 - Crocs Population Survey

21:42 - Crocs Reproduction & Characteristics

26:49 - Island Development & Restoration

33:21 - Volunteering at ACES

38:30 - The ACES Team

42:31 - Selfless Love - Chris & Christina

45:21 - ACES RELOCATION

48:17 - Croc Or Alligator?

49:56 - Island Talk

52:41 - Mainland Fun

54:15 - What if you were Mayor of the Island?

57:17 - Conclusion

#belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving

Enjoying New Island Life's

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Fri, 04 Oct 2024 03:00:00 -0600

Being Single, Sober & healthy or a mom in San Pedro Belize brings its own challenges and new perspectives. Job & Rachel, catch up on the big changes that have happened in the past 7 months since the last time we recorded an episode back in march.

Belize Lifestyle & Experiences

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

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

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

#belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving

Email: TheGringaAndLocal@gmail.com

Website: https://the-gringa-local-belize.capti...

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5i5DS3J...

The Half Gringo & Local

Rachel Jensen & Job Mendizabal — Thu, 12 Sep 2024 00:00:00 -0600

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