In today's episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Julie, a passionate spirit who sailed from her past as a yacht chef in Quebec, Canada, all the way to the vibrant beaches of Costa Rica. She's here to share with us the evolution of her dream—a boutique cafe and clothing store named Luna llena—that's stirring up the local community with coffee, fashion, and inspiration.
Join us as Julie recounts her adventure through the rugged terrain of starting a business in a new land, the cultural tides she navigated, and the personal milestones she's celebrated. From her heartfelt move into a space that was once destined to be a real estate office, to the creative culinary offerings sans kitchen, and the quirky mix of secondhand retail finds her store presents, Julie's story is one of resilience and redefinition.
visit Julie - https://www.lunallenacollectiv.com/
Highlights:
00:00 Introduction
04:37 Dislike cold, moved for more opportunities.
08:13 Tiny house owner runs coffee store inside.
11:58 Initial strict design, negotiated for functionality.
13:25 Working as a yacht chef has challenges.
16:17 Luxury environment allows for creative food offerings.
21:02 Challenges of planning and profit in hospitality.
26:47 Dad travels, I stay, hard to visit.
29:15 Integrating new ideas into established vision.
31:49 Best advice: Support and belief in your ideas.
Worst advice: Others projecting their fears onto you.
35:06 Main goal is to be happy always.
Links below:
Watch the video version on YouTube
Instagram: @j_m_alex
LinkedIn: Jake Alexander
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Linkedin:
Visit: bizpirations.com
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🎧 Audio Podcast -- Listen, Subscribe and Review!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bizpirations/id1713579711
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7jKiISQi33QYKUVzghs09E
In today's episode #8 of Bizpirations, we're journeying into the heart of the jungle with the founders of the Jungle Sol Collection, Alex and Jess, whose inspiring story will take us from the serene beaches of Costa Rica to the indigenous tribes that illuminate their brand's ethos. Join us as we uncover the significance behind every hand-drawn pattern, every interaction with the Borucan tribe, and every bikini made from recycled materials. Their story isn't just about creating a brand; it's about sustaining employment, educating others, and building a business rooted in deep values and social responsibility. Visit: junglesolcollection.com Highlights: 00:00 introduction 03:36 Spontaneous trip to Costa Rica turns chaotic. 07:50 Overwhelmed by sales, decided to produce locally. 10:18 Who changed to Jungle Soul. 13:18 Biggest order, took it, figured it out. 17:52 Unsatisfactory work experience led to ethical concerns. 22:04 Slow fashion: consuming less, high-quality products. 24:43 Emphasizing values, team approach, and diverse partnerships. 27:41 Borucan tribe 30:12 Using various techniques to incorporate Oaxacan culture. 32:46 Chose to focus on brand, very happy. 35:53 Borders closed, persisted, opened successful store during COVID 40:02 Dream of having stores in Mexico, international presence. 42:35 Pursue passions without time limits or restrictions.
Thank you for listening!
Visit bizpirations.com for more information and to sign up for our newsletter to dive deeper into the show.
Links below:
Watch the video version on YouTube
Instagram: @j_m_alex
LinkedIn: Jake Alexander
Search 'Bizpirations' on any platform (Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube)
Linkedin:
Visit: bizpirations.com
Subscribe: youtube.com/@bizpirations
🎧 Audio Podcast -- Listen, Subscribe and Review!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bizpirations/id1713579711
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7jKiISQi33QYKUVzghs09E
On today's episode of Bizpirations, we're taking the plunge with Brad Stephens, the spirited founder of Rica Freedivers. Brad grew up with an affinity for the water which led him to the picturesque shores of Costa Rica, where a casual conversation and a touch of serendipity had him trade in conventional jobs for a life beneath the waves. Giving up a stable position at a local dive center, Brad harnessed self-taught business tactics and a can-do attitude to begin his own thrilling journey into entrepreneurship. In today's episode, we'll uncover the details of how a lack of “normal” in Brad's dictionary and his strong belief in uniqueness crafted a brand that stands out, just like his enigmatic company name and logo. Despite a few early missteps, such as venturing into the surf apnea market prematurely, Brad recalibrated his focus squarely on growing his core expertise, leading to the expansion of his company’s capabilities, including acquiring his own boat for better operational control. Visit brad: ricafreedivers.com Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 06:06 Who motivates Brad? 09:07 Starting own diving company after contract employment. 11:42 Learning diving requires knowledge, business skills essential. 16:35 Setting up office space, key milestone for legitimacy. 18:46 Failed attempt to enter surf apnea market. 22:19 What does it take to go spearfishing? 27:04 Diving adventure leads to unexpected catch. 29:41 Spear fishing brings adrenaline, but misconceptions about sharks. 32:16 Stand out and offer unique experiences. 34:48 The real story of "Rica Freedivers" 37:59 where to find Brad
Thank you for listening!
Visit bizpirations.com for more information and to sign up for our newsletter to dive deeper into the show.
Links below:
Watch the video version on YouTube
Instagram: @j_m_alex
LinkedIn: Jake Alexander
Search 'Bizpirations' on any platform (Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube)
Linkedin:
Visit: bizpirations.com
Subscribe: youtube.com/@bizpirations
🎧 Audio Podcast -- Listen, Subscribe and Review!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bizpirations/id1713579711
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7jKiISQi33QYKUVzghs09E
Meet Kris, our guest who swapped the precision of civil engineering for the unpredictability of rainforest spice farming. In this eye-opening conversation, Kris shares his journey of taking over a vanilla farm and spice tourism operation nestled in the lush forests of Quepos. We delve into the delicate art of vanilla pollination—done by hand against the ticking clock of nature. Whether you're interested in sustainable agriculture, family dynamics in business, or simply love a good pivot story, Kris's tale of persistence and transformation is sure to inspire. So, spice up your day with a listen to Bizpirations and learn how this engineer turned rainforest spice farmer is breaking new ground. Visit Kris and buy the spices: https://www.rainforestspices.com/shop/ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction 06:30 we lost everything 09:23 Vanilla pollination and curing require human intervention. 12:43 Decided to join dad on the farm. 14:51 Running large vanilla and spice farm is challenging. 18:41 Increased farm transparency through normal business practices. 23:29 struggles within a family dynamic 25:07 Improving delegation and organization on the farm. 30:32 Farm improvements lead to unique, educational tours. 32:44 Debunking tourism misconceptions in Costa Rica. 34:35 Farming requires knowledge, adaptability, and hard work. 39:22 Shadowing key players crucial for business understanding. Thank you for listening!
Visit bizpirations.com for more information and to sign up for our newsletter to dive deeper into the show.
Links below:
Watch the video version on YouTube
Instagram: @j_m_alex
LinkedIn: Jake Alexander
Search 'Bizpirations' on any platform (Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube)
Linkedin:
Visit: bizpirations.com
Subscribe: youtube.com/@bizpirations
🎧 Audio Podcast -- Listen, Subscribe and Review!
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/bizpirations/id1713579711
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7jKiISQi33QYKUVzghs09E
In this episode of "Bizpirations" filmed at the Chorro Eco Lodge, Jake sits down with Cara and Leo, the dynamic duo couple who fell in love on the river, and as they say, the rest is history. The three of them sit down and discuss Leo humble beginning in the furniture manufacturing to his first days on the river, and Cara's battle with cancer; how it shaped not only their personal lives, but their business. Chorro Eco Lodge: www.lunavidaadventures.com/chorro-ecolodge H2O Adventures: www.h2ocr.com
Highlights:
00:00 Introduction
06:07 How Cara got paid to travel in college
09:06 Their business was born, but not without challenges
13:03 Leo finessed river entry from a Jungle tycoon
15:46 Luna Vida, Cara and Leo’s boutique tour business begins
18:16 Their first tour; what went wrong, what went right?
21:48 Hurricane-like rain takes down the lodge
25:52 What is an ecolodge?
30:07 Pioneering of rafting and tubing tours in Costa Rica
32:37 40ft waterfalls, rapids, and the unknown of the river
35:15 Small rafts change their business (and the industry)
37:55 Confusion about the vision causes commitment to waver
41:54 What are forest retreats?
44:29 How healing became a part of the venture
47:54 How to pursue your dreams as a new entrepreneur
Thank you for listening!
Visit bizpirations.com for more information and to sign up for our newsletter to dive deeper into the show.
Links below:
Watch the video version on YouTube
Instagram: @j_m_alex
LinkedIn: Jake Alexander
Search 'Bizpirations' on any platform (Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube)
On today's episode, we're going on an underwater journey with Pablo, an Argentinian who turned his passion for marine biology into a beacon of conservation in the waters of Costa Rica.
From his grandfather's workshop to the expansive blue of Patagonia, Pablo's life has always been intertwined with nature and water. For two decades, he's navigated a career through diving and, most recently, coral restoration, showing us that the path from tour operator to dedicated conservationist is not only possible but incredibly impactful.
- Jake
Costa Rica Coral Restoration: costaricacoralrestoration.com
Instagram: @costaricacoralrestoration
Highlights:
00:00 - Introduction
3:44 - What brought you into this lifestyle?
10:19 - Interest in marine bio flourishes after multiple other careers
15:31 - Pablo gets a job SCUBA diving
21:14 - From Diving instructor to owning a diving company
23:31 - Frustration leads to opening dive shop
30:18 - What made you focus on coral conservation?
39:21 - Pablo's initial skepticism on coral and how it changed
40:13 - Pablo collaborates with “Masses” to start conservation efforts
46:32 - How do coral reproduce?
52:00 - What is stopping coral research?
01:01:12 - How to use volunteering to guide your interests
01:05:28 - Inspiring others to create positive change, happiness
01:09:09 - Learn from your failures, not others'
Thank you for listening!
Visit bizpirations.com for more information and to sign up for our newsletter to dive deeper into the show.
Links below:
Watch the video version on YouTube
Instagram: @j_m_alex
LinkedIn: Jake Alexander
Search 'Bizpirations' on any platform (Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube)
In this episode, 'Supply Chain Manager to Chocolate Maker,' we're unwrapping the tale of Brian, a former supply chain manager who took his expertise from logistics to the lush foliage of Costa Rica's jungles. Brian's path wasn't paved in chocolate from the start; it began with him leveraging night tours on borrowed land, leading up to the purchase of his own slice of paradise. - Jake
Highlights
00:00 Introduction
01:50 What is it like to grow up in Costa Rica?
04:52 How to diversify your hobbies to achieve happiness.
10:11 The cheat codes to traveling to gain perspective (and more)
11:15 How Brian’s parents shape his career path
14:41 What is Terra Travel Costa Rica?
20:34 Integrating cacao, coffee, sugar, vanilla
22:04 Exclusive Costa Rican resorts nearby
26:17 How to avoid investors to maintain control.
29:57 Introduced to writers and motivational speakers, visualization.
33:09 The evolution of Brian’s garden, trails, and exhibit space
35:55 How to find help to come up with unique business ideas
39:54 Selecting and finding the right people is crucial.
41:57 Industry faces competition, regulation, and price changes.
46:11 Avoid sharing ideas, and observe others' behavior.
48:07 Observe, listen, and stay vigilant for success.
51:32 Company developing the multi-purpose building in the city.
54:38 Multiple options for information in Costa Rica.
Thank you for listening!
Visit bizpirations.com for more information and to sign up for our newsletter to dive deeper into the show.
Links below:
Watch the video version on YouTube
Instagram: @j_m_alex
LinkedIn: Jake Alexander
Search 'Bizpirations' on any platform (Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube)
In this episode of Bizpirations, we hear the inspiring journey of Roberto, from starting as a restaurant employee to becoming the proud owner of his own restaurant and bar.
Roberto shares the story of his family's entrepreneurial spirit, from opening a small smoothie stand by the beach to expanding into a thriving business. He discusses the challenges and successes of starting and growing his business, the importance of family, and the inspiration he finds in "ghanas" – the drive and determination to pursue one's dreams.
Tune in as Roberto offers valuable insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs, and shares the heartwarming success story of Tentacion restaurant in Costa Rica.
- Jake
Episode highlights:
00:00 - Introduction
2:31 - Robert uncovers his journey to entrepreneur
5:18 - How do you succeed in hospitality?
6:04 - From dishwasher to Bartender
7:45 - Embracing Career Changes
8:37 - Entrepreneurial Growth
10:16 - Tourism and Business in Manuel Antonio
13:26 - Roberto on how to grow a bar / Clandestino Bar
14:38 - Impact of the Pandemic
20:48 - Growth of Small Business to Big Companies
Thank you for listening!
Visit bizpirations.com for more information and to sign up for our newsletter to dive deeper into the show.
Links below:
Watch the video version on YouTube
Instagram: @j_m_alex
LinkedIn: Jake Alexander
Search 'Bizpirations' on any platform (Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube)
In this episode, we travel with Matt to the scenic landscapes of Costa Rica, where he transformed his passion for adventure into a thriving tourism venture. Matt candidly shares the hurdles of bureaucracy and the cultural shock of setting up a business in a foreign land, juxtaposing the bustling pace of American business with the laid-back rhythms of Costa Rican life. He recounts tales of perseverance, from modest operations to a booming enterprise, and the entrepreneurial spirit that turned unexpected challenges into exciting opportunities.
We'll paddle through the evolution of Paddle 9, from its grassroots in paddleboarding to becoming trailblazers in the region's tour industry. Matt opens up about his journey of self-discovery, the switch from the financial world to manual labor, and the profound lessons learned from a journey started alongside his associate, Brian. Discover how a combination of strong community ties, continuous improvement, and an unyielding commitment to safety and customer service carved out a niche for Paddle 9 amidst Costa Rica's lush paradise.
So grab your life jacket, and let's dive into the captivating tale of adventure, adaptability, and the art of embracing change—right here on Bizpirations.
- Jake
Paddle9 - paddle9sup.com
Episode Highlights:
00:00 Introduction
06:35 Lack of communication leads Matt to wonder
12:17 How do you start paddleboarding?
17:27 3 Key elements of paddleboarding
23:38 How do you teach people to jump off waterfalls?
28:21 Paddle Nine innovates with advanced kayak technology
32:30 Extra guides ensure everyone enjoys safe experiences.
40:32 Manuel Antonio's tourism growing with positive impact
43:59 Matt’s first success leads to crazy expansion
52:57 Pushing the vehicle (and the limits)
54:07 What is a retro dislocation treatment?
01:00:54 Why people hide injuries and how to avoid it
01:07:13 The business transition
01:12:07 Promoting tours via Instagram, TripAdvisor, and website
Thank you for listening!
Visit bizpirations.com for more information and to sign up for our newsletter to dive deeper into the show.
Links below:
Watch the video version on YouTube
Instagram: @j_m_alex
LinkedIn: Jake Alexander
Search 'Bizpirations' on any platform (Google Podcasts, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, YouTube)
This isn't another series about million-dollar ideas.