Send us a text Speak Portuguese & Melt Hearts: Instant Charm Trick I spoke to Meghana in this episode about the recent stereotype associated with expats, why we don't believe it is true, about her integration in Portugal, and what were the best and the worst things about her journey here to Portugal. It's a very candid and heart-warming conversation. You can check out her instagram here https://www.instagram.com/meghana_in_portugal/ You can also get your tickets for the Portugal Culture ...

Send us a text Discover why accountants in Portugal can't steal from businesses like in the US. We explore the crucial differences in access and trust between business owners and their accountants. #businessinportugal SUBSCRIBE! https://subscribepage.io/LighthouseConsultingMail On You Tube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2sKiK6k5hblSe5WbYy3xXUm87a2C2ehq&si=BZ1CM_r_A8IURsHb Please check out our social media platforms! https://www.instagram.com/lighthouseconsulting_raquel/ https://w...

Send us a text Demystifying Portugal's Business Landscape for Expats - Why "LLC" doesn't quite fit in Portugal: Common expat assumptions and why they're misleading. - The high-level view: Introduction to Portugal's primary business structures relevant to expats. - Setting the stage: What you absolutely need to know before even thinking about setting up shop. LDA vs. Unipessoal LDA: Your Portugal Business Blueprint - LDA Unpacked: Deep dive into the "Sociedade por Quotas" (LDA) – liability, ow...

Send us a text Deborah holds a Master’s degree in Intercultural Psychology and is a certified coach, trainer, and NLP practitioner. Her mission is to help you conquer expat challenges and thrive in your new life. Using a range of tools, including 1-1 coaching, group programs, online courses, workshops, and the Expat Journey Program Membership. She supports expats and those preparing to move abroad in overcoming obstacles and creating their best life in a new country. And we have a special dea...

Send us a text In this episode of Beyond Bacalhau, Raquel Batista interviews Matt and Dawn, a couple who moved from New York City to Nazaré, Portugal, as part of their unretirement journey. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of relocating, navigating business in a new country, and the importance of understanding local tax structures. The conversation highlights the significance of professional guidance for expats and entrepreneurs, as well as strategies for growing a business in a ...

Send us a text In this episode of Beyond Bacalhau, Raquel Batista and Margaret Malewski discuss the journey of entrepreneurship in Portugal, focusing on the unique challenges faced by women entrepreneurs. They explore the importance of defining one's purpose, transitioning from a corporate mindset to entrepreneurship, identifying transferable skills, and the significance of planning and cost management. The conversation emphasizes the need for community support, building confidence, and findi...

Send us a text In this episode, Raquel Batista discusses the complexities of hiring in Portugal, emphasizing the significant differences between hiring employees and freelancers. She outlines the legal obligations, cultural considerations, and financial implications of hiring, including social security costs, employee rights, and the necessity of providing benefits such as maternity leave and vacation days. Raquel also highlights the importance of understanding the various types of employment...

Send us a text Freelancing and creating a company are both valid paths that have their merits. If you’re looking for long-term stability, growth, and financial optimization, I’ll always lean toward starting a company.But why? Glad you asked.😉 Freelancing might seem like the easier route—lower upfront costs, less bureaucracy, and the illusion of more flexibility. But, it’s not always the best financial or strategic choice. SUBSCRIBE! https://subscribepage.io/LighthouseConsultingMail On You T...

Send us a text Now this was a magical moment that I was able to share with my Queen Brytta Moreira! We talked about empowering women, the struggles of maintaining it all, and giving grace when we can't do it all (by the way, we can't). Brytta works with yoga teachers by teaching them how to make money so that they can grow and scale their yoga businesses. She also works with retreat hosts and retreat center owners by designing their retreats and teaching them how to sell them. Also (because t...

Send us a text This one is going to be controversial!! For full disclosure, and before you think I'm bad-mouthing Portuguese, I am one, OK? Let's dive into some of the most important cultural aspects of doing business in Portugal—the ones that will make or break how you operate here. 🔹 Business is built on trust. Forget the ultra-formal, contract-first approach—here, relationships come first. It’s not about what’s on paper; it’s about who you know and the trust you build over time. 🔹 Talkin...

Send us a text Do you want to know the secret to grow and scale your business? I had a talk with Pablo Arias who happened to stop by Portugal and we discussed the difficulties and challenges of growing and scaling your business. Essential information! SUBSCRIBE! https://subscribepage.io/LighthouseConsultingMail On You Tube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2sKiK6k5hblSe5WbYy3xXUm87a2C2ehq&si=BZ1CM_r_A8IURsHb Please check out our social media platforms! https://www.instagram.com...

Send us a text In this week’s podcast episode, I'll review the fundamental steps of establishing your company in Portugal. From choosing the perfect name to understanding the importance of capital social (and what that actually is), defining your business activity (or activities), and selecting the right managers — I cover it all. Learn about the significance of crafting solid estatutos (bylaws) and the role of your company’s registered address. Whether you’re launching a brand-new company o...

Send us a text This week, I had the pleasure of chatting with someone very special—Vera Neves, my own Virtual Assistant (VA) @veraneves_pt). Together, we dove into topics that every entrepreneur needs to hear: ✨ The power of delegation – Why letting go of tasks can actually move you closer to your goals. ✨ How a VA transforms your business – Vera shared how Virtual Assistants help entrepreneurs focus on what truly matters: growing their businesses. ✨ Investing in yourself and your future – W...

Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the four main charges that you must know when you have a company in Portugal. Personal Income Tax (IRS), Corporate Income Tax (IRC), VAT (IVA) and Social Security. All of these deeply affect the financials of a company and its shareholders. We will go over how all of these intertwine and how you must consider them. Here's to having all you need for your business in Portugal! SUBSCRIBE! https://subscribepage.io/LighthouseConsultingMail On You Tube: ...

Send us a text In this episode, we dive into the importance of having a partner for easy and timely money transfers. If you want to buy a house and make sure your money is there on time, you have to rely on professionals. Plus, Sarah will talk to us about her personal experience of becoming an expat! Enjoy! SUBSCRIBE! https://subscribepage.io/LighthouseConsultingMail On You Tube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2sKiK6k5hblSe5WbYy3xXUm87a2C2ehq&si=BZ1CM_r_A8IURsHb Please check out our...

Send us a text Welcome to my business podcast. On this episode we will go through the content of this first season, what you can expect and learn and also why this podcast came to be. I'm sure all of this will sound very amateur later on :) SUBSCRIBE! https://subscribepage.io/LighthouseConsultingMail On You Tube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2sKiK6k5hblSe5WbYy3xXUm87a2C2ehq&si=BZ1CM_r_A8IURsHb Please check out our social media platforms! https://www.instagram.com/lighthouseconsul...