A weekly podcast in English about Portugal´s culture, history and daily life with various guests. Living in Portugal, moving to Portugal or visiting Portugal? Podcast Portugal is your essential resource for everything Portugal in English.
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Sporting CP's clinical psychologist and sleep scientist, Dr Rui Pereira, joins Podcast Portugal to reveal how sleep science shapes elite football performance. In this episode, host Justin West sits down with Dr Rui Pereira, a clinical psychologist and sleep scientist who works within the medical department of Sporting Clube de Portugal, one of Portugal's most storied and passionately supported football clubs. Rui's path began in clinical psychology before a PhD in sleep science at a leading UK sports university brought him into direct contact with elite athletes for the first time. Postdoctora
What does it take to leave being a personal trainer to celebrities and build an artisan food business in Portugal? In this episode of Podcast Portugal, Gran Sorvete founder John Beeby shares the story behind his handcrafted gelato company, the challenges of food entrepreneurship, sourcing quality ingredients, and creating authentic frozen desserts that celebrate flavour, craftsmanship and Portuguese living.
What if ancient stone circles, dolmens and megalithic monuments were more than ceremonial structures? In this episode of Podcast Portugal, explorer and filmmaker David O’Connor discusses Portugal’s ancient landscapes, megalithic sites, prehistoric knowledge, Earth-centred technologies and what our ancestors may have understood about humanity’s relationship with nature.
Documentary filmmaker Heitor Carvalho talks to Podcast Portugal about Aldeias do Futuro and the rural regeneration and ecovillage movement reviving Portugal. In this episode, Justin West is joined by Heitor Carvalho, a Portuguese documentary filmmaker and cultural contributor closely associated with the country's rural regeneration and ecological transition movement. Heitor is best known for his feature-length documentary, Aldeias do Futuro (Villages of the Future), which explores the profound transformation currently underway in rural Portugal. To make the film, Heitor spent several months tr
Planning a move to Portugal? Fresh Legal unpacks tax residency, visas and the legal and tax mistakes newcomers make, so you can relocate with real confidence. Relocating to Portugal is about much more than obtaining the right visa—it requires understanding the legal and tax framework that comes with building a new life in the country. In this episode of Podcast Portugal, we welcome the team from Fresh Legal to discuss the practical legal issues that international individuals and families should understand before making the move. The conversation explores how Portuguese tax residency is determi
Cristina Pereira explores how science, consciousness, Hellenistic astrology and personal resilience can help us better understand ourselves and navigate life's biggest challenges. Discover how science, spirituality, consciousness and personal growth intersect as Cristina Pereira explores resilience, self-awareness and modern wellbeing. Relocating our focus from external success to inner fulfilment is a journey many people are beginning to explore. In this thought-provoking episode of Podcast Portugal, we sit down with Cristina Pereira—certified life coach, former corporate finance leader and f
What if the future of wellness grows in a mushroom farm in central Portimão? In this episode of Podcast Portugal, Claudia, founder of Gribb, explains how certified organic functional mushrooms, urban farming, sustainability and science-backed nutrition are reshaping the wellness industry while creating a more transparent and environmentally responsible future. The global wellness industry is worth billions, yet consumers are becoming increasingly sceptical of marketing claims, imported supplements and products that promise everything while explaining very little. In this episode of Podcast Por
Recent changes to Portuguese nationality legislation have raised important questions for foreign residents, investors and families planning their long-term future in Portugal. In this episode, Danielle Avidago from LVP Advogados discusses the main changes introduced by the new legal framework and explains how they may affect different categories of applicants, including Golden Visa holders, D Visa holders, spouses and civil union partners, descendants, children born in Portugal and other foreign residents seeking Portuguese nationality. The conversation focuses on the practical impact of the n
Portugal's Golden Visa remains one of Europe's most discussed residency-by-investment programmes. In this episode, Jason explains the differences between temporary residency, permanent residency, EU long-term resident status, and citizenship, while exploring investor motivations, market sentiment, and Portugal's continued appeal as a destination for international investors seeking flexibility, mobility, and long-term opportunities.
StartAbroad founder Anna Sosdian shares practical lessons from helping hundreds of families, retirees, professionals and digital nomads relocate successfully. Anna Sosdian and Zach Gerth are the co-founders of StartAbroad, a full-service international relocation company launched after the pair experienced twelve international relocations between them. Since founding the company in 2021, they have helped hundreds of individuals and families navigate the complex process of moving abroad, with Portugal becoming one of their most popular destinations. StartAbroad provides end-to-end relocation sup
The creator of Global Food Quest, joins Podcast Portugal to discuss Portugal’s rich food culture, traditional fishing communities, regional wines, local festivals and why the country remains one of Europe’s most underrated culinary destinations. Discover how food connects people, cultures and communities. Originally from the UK and having lived around the world, Jamie shares how a lifelong passion for gastronomy evolved into a global storytelling project. Now based in Portugal, he explains why the country has become the foundation of his work and why Portuguese cuisine deserves far greater int
How will demographics, ageing populations, migration, housing, and climate change shape the future of Portugal? In this episode of Podcast Portugal, demographic futurist Bradley Schurman explores why some cities prosper while others decline, what makes communities resilient, and how Portugal can position itself for long-term success. In this fascinating episode of Podcast Portugal, we welcome Bradley Schurman, demographic strategist, author of The Super Age: Decoding Our Demographic Destiny, and co-creator of the Geography of Prosperity Index. Bradley's work examines how demographic shifts, lo
What draws people from around the world to Portugal? In this episode of Podcast Portugal, Justin West sits down with actress, presenter and writer Kam Heskin to discuss her fascinating journey from Hollywood to the Algarve. From a successful career in film and television to spending time in Portugal and experiencing its unique lifestyle, Kam shares her thoughts on family, personal growth, Portuguese culture, and what makes the country such a compelling destination for visitors and international residents alike. Known to audiences around the world for her work in film and television, Kam reflec
Looking for a trusted real estate agent in Portugal or considering a move to Lisbon? In this episode of Podcast Portugal, Justin West sits down with Francisco DeVito, widely known as The Lisbon Agent, to explore Portugal’s thriving property market, the realities of relocating to Portugal, and what international buyers should know before investing in Portuguese real estate. From Lisbon property opportunities and lifestyle advantages to the welcoming nature of the Portuguese people, Francisco shares valuable insights for expats, investors, digital nomads and anyone interested in buying property
Discover the world of Portuguese vinho de talha with the founders of Talha Mafia Wines, one of Portugal’s most exciting natural wine producers based in Vila de Frades, Alentejo — the historic heartland of amphora wine production. In this episode of Podcast Portugal, we explore Portugal’s ancient clay pot winemaking traditions, sustainable wine production, enotourism in the Alentejo, wine tasting experiences, and the best places to visit for authentic Portuguese wine culture. From natural wines and low-intervention winemaking to vineyard tourism, food pairings and hidden gems of the Portuguese
In this episode of Podcast Portugal, Justin West speaks with Bruna Ramalho Galamba about artificial intelligence in archaeology, digital heritage preservation, science communication, and how Portugal’s past can be shared with wider modern audiences through technology, storytelling, and online media. The conversation explores how AI, photogrammetry, 3D modelling, and digital archaeology are transforming the way researchers analyse, preserve, and communicate archaeological data, while also examining the dangers of AI misinterpreting historical evidence when trained on incomplete or poor-quality
In this episode of Podcast Portugal, Justin West speaks with Brhan Leibman about the extraordinary history of the Ethiopian Jewish community, the dangerous journeys through Sudan that inspired The Red Sea Diving Resort, and the modern realities of identity, migration, race, and belonging in today’s world. Brhan shares personal reflections on heritage, storytelling, social media, and preserving culture while navigating life between multiple worlds — Ethiopian, Jewish, African, Israeli, and global. This is a powerful and deeply human conversation exploring one of the lesser-known migration stori
What does the future of project management look like in an AI-driven world? In this episode, Denis Lassance, Managing Director Europe at PMI, explores how emerging technologies, shifting workforce dynamics, and a renewed focus on purpose and people are redefining project success in 2026 and beyond. In this forward-looking conversation, Denis Lassance shares insights from his leadership role at PMI, overseeing project innovation and professional development across Europe. With global organisations facing rapid technological change, Denis breaks down what is truly transforming project delivery —
In this episode of Podcast Portugal, we sit down with Tim Haldorsson founder of Lunar Strategy and Espressio AI to explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping marketing, business, and human interaction. From scaling over 250 Web3 projects including Solana, Base, and OKX, to pioneering “agent marketing,” Tim shares how AI-driven systems are accelerating growth while freeing humans to focus on what matters most: real connection.
In Part 2 of our Golden Visa series, expert consultant Jason Swan returns to answer real listener questions — cutting through confusion around risk, timelines, and what actually matters when applying for Portugal’s Golden Visa today. From whether you can lose residency if your investment underperforms, to the truth about fund risk, early exits, hidden fees, and changing government rules, this episode gives a grounded, practical look at how the programme works in reality — not just on paper. We revisit key concerns investors often misunderstand: what happens if a fund closes early, whether Port
Join us in Episode 65 of Podcast Portugal as we sit down with the Swiss indie group, Band of 4, the gifted musicians behind our signature soundtrack and steadfast supporters of the show since Episode 1. In this episode, we explore their artistic journey, the stories behind their evolving sound, and how their music has become an integral part of the Podcast Portugal experience. Band of 4 bring a rich tapestry of influences to their creative process, blending indie‑rock, alternative, and electro‑pop sensibilities that reflect both their diverse musical backgrounds and a thoughtful engagement wit
Podcast Portugal sits down with Afonso Gonçalves, leader of the nationalist movement Reconquista, a figure who has become one of the most controversial voices in Portuguese politics and media today. Gonçalves promotes a far-right Catholic nationalist worldview, often clashing with Portugal’s liberal laws and multicultural reality. His outspoken positions on women, LGBTQ+ rights, immigration, and Portuguese identity have sparked fierce debate, public demonstrations, and widespread criticism. In this conversation, we explore his views in depth: Why he believes women should prioritise family over
Voices of Equality: Paula Cosme Pinto on Gender, Media & the Rise of Fascist Narratives. A candid conversation on women’s representation, modern Portugal, and the growing tension around identity, power, and public discourse. In this episode of Podcast Portugal, we sit down with journalist, columnist, and communications expert Paula Cosme Pinto for a thoughtful and timely conversation on the issues shaping modern Portugal—and beyond. Drawing on her years in media and her work exploring gender and society, Paula shares her perspective on the evolving role of women in Portuguese public life, the
In this first episode of our special Podcast Portugal series on the Portuguese Golden Visa, we sit down with Golden Visa specialist Jason Swan to answer the most common questions people are asking right now about relocating to Portugal. From whether the Golden Visa is still available in 2026, to who it’s really for and why it remains one of Europe’s most attractive residency programmes, this episode provides a clear, practical introduction for anyone considering Portugal as a lifestyle or investment destination. This episode marks the beginning of a three-part series where we break down the Po
Portugal continues to attract thousands of international residents every year, but navigating visas, paperwork, and relocation logistics can be overwhelming. In this episode of Podcast Portugal, we speak with Wojtek, of PortuGer.com, a platform designed to simplify the process of moving to Portugal. From visa guidance and residency support to helping newcomers settle successfully, Wojtek explains how PortuGer is helping expats, entrepreneurs, and remote workers make Portugal their home. We explore the biggest challenges foreigners face when relocating to Portugal, how the immigration landscape
