Explorez tous les épisodes du podcast The Resident Podcast

Carl Munson and Natasha Donn discuss three main stories, today:
First, a violent Rolex heist in Lisbon carried out by a South American motorcycle gang left one robber dead after he was struck by a car; the victim (known as Suíço) and his passenger lost watches and jewellery worth around €100,000 - https://www.portugalresident.com/rolex-heist-in-lisbon-leaves-one-dead/ 
Second, the PJ is investigating the background of the 35-year-old Portuguese-Angolan driver who ran over 16 people in Albufeira, seriously injuring 20-year-old Luan Castro; fake driving licences and inconsistencies in his story have raised questions about whether it was simply a drunken incident -  https://www.portugalresident.com/pj-scrutinises-life-and-past-of-driver-who-ran-over-16-in-albufeira/
Third, the reintroduction of biometric checks at Portuguese airports is expected to cause significant queues and pressure, with both the Prime Minister and Minister Luís Neves present at a demonstration of the system - https://www.portugalresident.com/portugals-airports-return-to-collecting-biometric-data-from-foreign-passengers-24-7/
Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹
We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.
Published Fridays 3pm
Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com
Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 39 🇵🇹 
(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)
#PortugalResident #NewsReview #RolexHeist #LisbonCrime #Albufeira #LuanCastro #AirportBiometrics #LuisNeves #Portugal2026


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www.portugalresident.com

For the Portugal Resident News Review for 21st August 2026, Carl Munson and Paul Rees discuss... 

First, the English punk duo Lambrini Girls displayed a provocative anti-CHEGA slogan at a festival, prompting outrage from André Ventura; Paul strongly defends artistic freedom of expression and criticises Ventura’s overreaction. 

Second, the competition watchdog’s call for more rail operators is met with scepticism - Paul argues the current subsidised CP network isn’t broken and warns against repeating the UK’s privatisation failures. 

Thirdly, the state’s decision to buy back a stake in REN (the electricity grid company) is examined: the claim that it will lower household bills is dismissed as spin, while the real motives appear strategic (countering Chinese ownership and influencing renewable-energy and data-centre infrastructure). 

The conversation also touches on messy solar-farm planning and the effectiveness of grassroots public campaigns.

Lambrini Girls spark controversy with anti-Chega message at Vilar de Mouros - https://www.portugalresident.com/lambrini-girls-anti-chega-message-vilar-de-mouros/

Portugal’s competition watchdog calls for more rail operators - https://www.portugalresident.com/portugal-railways-new-operators-competition/

State’s return to REN could help lower electricity bills, says PM - https://www.portugalresident.com/portugal-state-stake-ren-electricity-bills/

They also note atypical August weather forecast to bring rain and strong winds.

00:00 Welcome and Headlines
00:58 Weather and Weekend Chatter
01:54 Lambrini Girls Spark Outrage
03:42 Free Speech and Festival Funding
07:26 Live Chat and Punk Anecdotes
09:37 Swearing and Cultural Norms
10:54 Rail Competition Debate
14:09 Privatization Fears and UK Lessons
17:46 State Return to REN Explained
20:58 Renewables Planning and Public Pushback
29:17 Power to the People Closing

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 37 🇵🇹 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

#PortugalResident #NewsReview #LambriniGirls #AndreVentura #Chega #RailCompetition #REN #EnergySovereignty #FreeSpeech #Portugal2026


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www.portugalresident.com

On the Resident news review podcast, hosts welcome Chris Graeme of Essential Business back in cooler Portugal after sweltering UK heat and discuss his multi-generational Diana Ross concert. 
They touch on UK politics in Clacton before moving to a news review: a complaint of antisemitism at the University of Coimbra involving anti-Zionist graffiti and an unsubstantiated legal claim seeking €3 million, prompting debate about protests, media attention, and free speech, including Kanye West performing in Portugal. 

The conversation then covers a Swedish tourist shot in Lisbon’s Baixa amid an unclear dispute, with concerns from residents and shopkeepers about rising petty crime and policing. 

They finish with practical advice for foreigners learning Portuguese, including reading newspapers, watching telenovelas, and mixing with Portuguese friends.

Complaint of antisemitism at University of Coimbra - https://www.portugalresident.com/complaint-of-antisemitism-at-university-of-coimbra/
Tourist shooting in Baixa district amplifies concerns of residents and shopkeepers - https://www.portugalresident.com/tourist-shooting-in-baixa-district-amplifies-concerns-of-residents-and-shopkeepers/
Break the ‘speak Portuguese’ spell! - https://www.portugalresident.com/break-the-speak-portuguese-spell/
00:00 Welcome and Guest Intro
00:17 Diana Ross Concert Recap
01:32 Showbiz Memories in Estoril
02:20 UK Heat and Clacton Politics
03:47 News Review Coimbra Complaint
05:25 Why It Matters Media Debate
06:55 Kanye West Free Speech Row
09:41 Back to Coimbra Allegations
11:56 Protests Israel vs Putin
13:17 Wrap and Next Items Tease
14:14 Tourist Shooting Context
15:08 Bay Leaf Hashish Scam
17:10 Policing and Public Safety
19:01 Is Lisbon Still Safe
21:26 Airport Queues Detour
22:46 Learning Portuguese Tips
24:41 Telenovelas and Immersion
26:55 Phrasal Verbs and Wrap-Up

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 36 🇵🇹 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

#PortugalResident #NewsReview #CocaineSeizures #NarcoBoats #LuisNeves #CCTV #CHEGA #SocialMediaHate #Misinformation #portugal2026

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this Aug 7th, 2026 Portugal Resident news review podcast, Carl Munson and Portugal Resident journalist Natasha Donn review a week dominated by cocaine-trafficking stories, including bales washing up on the Alentejo coast and a major seizure from a large ship arriving from Panama that was updated from four to five tons after an operation involving PJ intelligence links (MARK), the navy and air force, and an interception far offshore; they note PJ has confiscated over 28 tons of cocaine in 2026, and discuss a suspect found dead in a PJ headquarters cell where only corridor CCTV exists. 

They also cover MPs rejecting expanded CCTV in parliament, revived by suspicions the reported Chega office “break-in” was staged. 

Finally, they discuss a viral video shared by senior Chega figures that removed context from a café/shisha-bar incident, misleading viewers into thinking customers were expelled for not speaking Portuguese when staff had been insulted as “effing refugee.”

Crew member arrested in five-tonne cocaine bust in Sines found dead in cell - https://www.portugalresident.com/crew-member-arrested-in-five-tonne-cocaine-bust-in-sines-found-dead-in-cell/

MPs reject CCTV cameras designed to protect them in parliamentary buildings - https://www.portugalresident.com/mps-reject-cctv-cameras-designed-to-protect-them-in-parliamentary-buildings/

CHEGA leaders amplify false restaurant claim to 1.7 million views - https://www.portugalresident.com/chega-leaders-amplify-false-restaurant-claim-to-1-7-million-views/

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 35 🇵🇹 

apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

#PortugalResident #NewsReview #CocaineSeizures #NarcoBoats #LuisNeves #CCTV #CHEGA #SocialMediaHate #Misinformation #portugal2026 

00:00 Welcome and Morning Swim
00:49 Cocaine Fest Headlines
02:14 Panama Ship Drug Bust
04:43 Jail Cell Death Fallout
07:17 Luis Neves Media Storm
09:49 MPs Reject CCTV Plan
11:24 Chega Break In Doubts
15:26 Viral Video Misinformation
19:41 Language Learning and Empathy
20:47 Wrap Up and Goodbye


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this week’s Resident news podcast, Natasha and Carl discuss whether the government’s new plan to distribute AIMA immigration lawsuits to regional courts (instead of overloading Lisbon) is a genuine fix or merely a cosmetic “ruse,” following EU criticism of Portugal’s slow administrative courts. 

They also cover the incomplete recovery six months after Storms Kristen, Leonardo and Marta: Portugal has received a €65.37 million advance from the EU Solidarity Fund, yet around 1,600 customers (mainly in the Leiria region) still lack restored landlines. 

Finally, they review President António José Seguro’s first foreign trip to Cape Verde, where he was named patron of the Decade of the Ocean and outlined five priorities for international ocean cooperation: maritime safety, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, tourism, blue finance, and science and technology.

Government plans specialist immigration courts as AIMA cases overwhelm system - https://www.portugalresident.com/government-plans-specialist-immigration-courts-as-aima-cases-overwhelm-system/

Portugal receives €65.37 million in EU storm aid as telecom repairs drag on - https://www.portugalresident.com/portugal-receives-e65-37-million-in-eu-storm-aid-as-telecom-repairs-drag-on/

Portugal’s president chosen as Patron of the Decade of the Ocean - https://www.portugalresident.com/portugals-president-chosen-as-patron-of-the-decade-of-the-ocean/

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹
We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 34 🇵🇹 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 33 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Natasha, Carl & Chris Graeme from Essential Business look at:
GALP’s plan for 19,000-home community on former refinery faces council opposition - https://www.portugalresident.com/galps-plan-for-19000-home-community-on-former-refinery-faces-council-opposition/

The 'State of The Nation' - https://www.portugalresident.com/pm-under-fire-as-state-of-the-nation-debate-opens-under-multiple-clouds/

And the changing fortunes of recently-appointed government minister – Luis Neves (neves means snow, in Portuguese) – who has hit some bumpy ground switching from policing to politics – https://www.portugalresident.com/portugals-interior-minister-insists-undeclared-tourism-company-was-oversight/

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this entertaining and heartfelt episode we welcome Derek Hughes, writer of the popular A Year in Monchique column in The Portugal Resident and the man behind the forthcoming Monchique the Musical 🤣.

Derek shares his remarkable journey from Whitehall civil servant to life in the mountains of Monchique, the extraordinary coincidences that have followed him since moving to Portugal, his encounters with British prime ministers, and the decision to stop dreaming and start doing.

In this warm and insightful conversation, he reflects on:
• His transition from London to a Portuguese farmhouse and the surprising gift he received on arrival
• Why he chose not to become a farmer despite receiving the 'good life' on a plate
• The power of community, neighbourly help and Portuguese culture
• His love of musical theatre and plans for Monchique the Musical (if Carl has his way!)
• The challenges and joys of building a new life in rural Portugal

A candid, inspiring and often humorous conversation for anyone considering a move to Portugal, already living here, or simply curious about authentic resident experiences in the interior.

Subscribe and turn on notifications for more inspiring stories from real Portugal residents.

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #algarve2030)

#PortugalResidentPodcast #BenAustin #LivingInPortugal #PortugalExpat #MoveToPortugal #AlgarveLiving #PortugalRealEstate #ExpatsInPortugal #SilverCoast #PortugalLife #ThriveInPortugal #PortugalIntegration #PortugalPodcast #AlgarveExpat #CarlMunson #PortugalResident #LongTermPortugal #ArtInPortugal #PortugalCurator #Portugal2026


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 32 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Natasha & Carl look at:

Bonnie Tyler dies, after long illness, in Faro Hospital - https://www.portugalresident.com/bonnie-tyler-dies-after-long-illness-in-faro-hospital

Seismic experts urge PM, President to act ahead of “inevitable catastrophe” - https://www.portugalresident.com/seismic-experts-urge-pm-president-to-act-ahead-of-inevitable-catastrophe/

Burqa ban approved by parliamentary committee - https://www.portugalresident.com/burqa-ban-approved-by-parliamentary-committee

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Stay alert and informed about the fires in Portugal here:

*** www.fogos.pt ***

*** www.fogosagora.pt ***

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 31 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Natasha & Carl look at:

He’s out! Portuguese rescue team extracts man trapped over week under rubble in Venezuela - https://www.portugalresident.com/hes-out-portuguese-rescue-team-extracts-man-trapped-over-week-under-rubble-in-venezuela/

“Absolutely terrible days ahead”: Portugal enters ‘situation of alert’ - https://www.portugalresident.com/absolutely-terrible-days-ahead-portugal-enters-situation-of-alert/

Digitalisation exam ‘fiasco’ descends into unseemly ‘blame game’ - https://www.portugalresident.com/digitalisation-exam-fiasco-descends-into-unseemly-blame-game/

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Why We Fell in Love With Portugal...

In this Resident Interview episode, some of our previous interviewees share how visits to Portugal, summer holidays, a wedding in Lisbon, and travels to Porto, Cascais, the Algarve, and the Alentejo, turned into a decision to stay. 

00:00 Falling in Love with Portugal after Covid - Tova Leigh, F*cked at 40
00:41 I found my Best Man in the Algarve - Gerry Fagan, developer, DDM
01:18 Romance in a Ruin - BBC's Alastair Leithead
02:40 Building a Life Here - Daisy Sampson of AFPOP
03:15 Aljezur epiphany - Eric Roth, photographer
03:41 Food, wine and long lunches - BBC's Alastair Leithead
04:11 Loved everything about it! - Gerry Fagan, developer, DDM
04:31 Secret beaches - BBC's Alastair Leithead
04:50 My God, I'm a lucky man - Gerry Fagan, developer, DDM
05:02 Calm Algarve Lifestyle - Dutch maverick Erik de Vlieger
05:31 Warm, welcoming community - Miguel Franco, High-Flow CEO
06:09 Child-friendly bubble - Charles Roberts, Fine & Country Portugal
07:07 Coastal cool, easy life & blue skies - Sara Allen, Martinhal
08:26 10 months in shorts (or a bikini!) - Paolo Funassi, Albufeira Paradise


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 30 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Natasha, Carl & monthly special guest Paul Rees look at:

Portugal dispatches rescue team to Venezuela 
– https://www.portugalresident.com/portugal-dispatches-rescue-team-to-venezuela/

Hotel run by Portuguese in Venezuela ‘collapses with countless people inside it’ – https://www.portugalresident.com/hotel-run-by-portuguese-in-venezuela-collapses-with-countless-people-inside-it/

PM’s sovereign wealth fund plan more raises questions than it answers - https://www.portugalresident.com/pms-sovereign-wealth-fund-plan-more-raises-questions-than-it-answers/

Over 200 Portuguese formally complain about dating apps – https://www.portugalresident.com/dating-app-complaints-portugal-fake-profiles-scams/

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com
Paul Rees – www.rural-properties.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 29 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Natasha and Carl look at: 

Revealed: government’s ‘Green Map’ for fast-tracking renewable energy projects – https://www.portugalresident.com/revealed-governments-green-map-for-fast-tracking-renewable-energy-projects/ 

Municipalities reject government’s renewable energy ‘Green Map’ – https://www.portugalresident.com/municipalities-reject-governments-renewable-energy-green-map/ 

Punchy PM says European countries “green with envy” over Portugal’s financial health – https://www.portugalresident.com/punchy-pm-says-european-countries-green-with-envy-over-portugals-financial-health/ 

Science is being harmed by visa refusals to conference guests – academics – https://www.portugalresident.com/science-is-being-harmed-by-visa-refusals-to-conference-guests-academics/ 

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal. 

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us. 

Published Fridays 3pm 

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 28 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Natasha and Carl look at:

A&E closures threatened at Portugal’s state hospitals through summer - www.portugalresident.com/ae-closures-threatened-at-portugals-state-hospitals-through-summer

Portugal retains spot as world’s 7th safest country - www.portugalresident.com/portugal-retains-spot-as-worlds-7th-safest-country

Portugal faces risk of power cuts this year, warns DGEG - www.portugalresident.com/portugal-faces-risk-of-power-cuts-this-year-warns-dgeg

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 27 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Carl, Natasha and special guest Chris Graeme of Essential Business look at:

“Vast majority of Portuguese are working” – Government downplays impact of general strike - https://www.portugalresident.com/vast-majority-of-portuguese-are-working-government-downplays-impact-of-general-strike/
“Something isn’t right” in way Portugal’s AD government is railroading people’s lives in favour of foreign big business – https://www.portugalresident.com/something-isnt-right-in-way-portugals-ad-government-is-railroading-peoples-lives-in-favour-of-foreign-big-business/
Portugal rejects “aggressive policies against immigrants” – https://www.portugalresident.com/portugal-rejects-aggressive-policies-against-immigrants/

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us. 

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com


(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 26 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Carl, Natasha and special guest Paul Rees of Rural Properties look at:
• Expanding Algarve landfills will not solve waste crisis – Almargem - https://www.portugalresident.com/expanding-algarve-landfills-will-not-solve-waste-crisis-almargem
• Woman in childbirth “refused entry to Faro Hospital” - https://www.portugalresident.com/woman-in-childbirth-refused-entry-to-faro-hospital/
• AIMA announces four days of strike action, due to degradation of work conditions - https://www.portugalresident.com/aima-announces-four-days-of-strike-action-due-to-degradation-of-work-conditions/

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us. 

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com
Paul Rees - www.rural-properties.com 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this fascinating episode we welcome Ben Austin – UK-born real estate advisor and passionate advocate for life in Portugal, having grown up here.

Ben has called Portugal home since he landed here at the age of four with his travelling parents, sharing today deep local knowledge of the Silver Coast and Central Portugal regions.

In this warm and insightful conversation, he shares his personal journey of schooling in Portugal, the realities of building a life and thriving here, cultural contrasts with the UK, daily life, and the evolving real estate landscape. 

Ben discusses:
• His transition from the UK as a child to becoming a true Portugal resident
• What Portugal is like for young people entering the job market and what the future might hold 
• Reflections on integration, community, lifestyle, and the reasons Portugal continues to attract people seeking a better quality of life
• Reflections on cultural immersion, growing up, and the joys (and challenges) of life here

A candid, inspiring and practical conversation for anyone considering a move to Portugal, already living here, or simply curious about authentic resident experiences, especially those with children.

Subscribe and turn on notifications for more inspiring stories from real Portugal residents. 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #algarve2030)

#PortugalResidentPodcast #BenAustin #LivingInPortugal #PortugalExpat #MoveToPortugal #AlgarveLiving #PortugalRealEstate #ExpatsInPortugal #SilverCoast #PortugalLife #ThriveInPortugal #PortugalIntegration #PortugalPodcast #AlgarveExpat #CarlMunson #PortugalResident #LongTermPortugal #ArtInPortugal #PortugalCurator #Portugal2026

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 25 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Carl, Natasha and special guest Aveiro-based film-maker Andy Cline look at:
• Portugal clarifies Nationality Law shake-up - www.portugalresident.com/portugal-clarifies-nationality-law-shake-up/ 
• “Abandoned children” were blindfolded by parents, and left in forest - www.portugalresident.com/abandoned-children-were-blindfolded-by-parents-and-left-in-forest
• More than 500 flights at risk due to June 3 general strike - www.portugalresident.com/more-than-500-flights-at-risk-due-to-june-3-general-strike

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹 We welcome your views too, & suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us. Published Fridays 3pm Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com Andy's YouTube channel - https://www.youtube.com/@UCIGm56TdUFR7C10mGAaYzng (apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this fascinating episode we welcome Richard Walker – celebrated British artist, photographer, author and passionate champion of Faro’s modernist architecture.

A London-based artist who studied at Camberwell and Chelsea, Richard first discovered Faro around 20 years ago on a winter trip.

What began as a relaxing getaway quickly turned into a deep obsession with the city’s remarkable 20th-century modernist buildings - often compared to Palm Springs in the Algarve. 

Richard shares:
• His journey discovering and documenting Faro’s hidden modernist treasures (nearly 500 buildings!)
• The story behind the hugely popular Faro Modernist Weekend (now in its fifth year) – tours, exhibitions, talks and international visitors
• His new book Faro Modernism: Buildings, Heritage and Culture Through the Lens of an Artist
• Cultural contrasts between London and the Algarve, protecting modernist heritage from development, and the inspiring community drawn to Faro 
• Why passion and deep immersion matter in today’s distracted world

A warm, insightful and visually inspiring conversation about art, architecture, heritage and building a meaningful connection with Portugal. 

Subscribe and turn on notifications for more inspiring stories from Portugal residents

Buy Richard's book here - https://www.batsfordbooks.com/book/faro-modernism/ 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #algarve2030) 

#PortugalResidentPodcast #RichardWalker #FaroModernism #ModernistArchitecture #AlgarveArchitecture #PalmSpringsOfPortugal #FaroModernistWeekend #PortugalExpats #AlgarveLiving #MoveToPortugal #ModernistHeritage #ArtInPortugal #PortugalPodcast #CarlMunson #PortugalTalk #FaroPortugal #ArchitecturalTours #PortugalLiving #AlgarveCulture #20thCenturyArchitecture

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 24 🇵🇹

In today’s roundup Carl, Natasha and special guest Chris Graeme of Essential Business, cover the big stories making headlines in Portugal:
• EU border controls continue to frustrate travellers to Portugal - www.portugalresident.com/eu-border-controls-continue-to-frustrate-travellers-to-portugal
• Brother-in-law of key government minister target of PJ police swoop - www.portugalresident.com/brother-in-law-of-key-government-minister-target-of-pj-police-swoop
• Closure of police stations will ‘free’ up to 500 agents for street patrols - www.portugalresident.com/brother-in-law-of-key-government-minister-target-of-pj-police-swoop

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹

We welcome your views too, & suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us. 

Published Fridays 3pm 

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com Chris - info@essential-business.pt 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this inspiring episode we welcome **Tova Leigh** – polymath, Renaissance woman, author, performer and founder of powerful women’s communities in Portugal.

Born in Israel with an Irish mother, Tova lived in London for 18 years before falling in love with Portugal on a summer holiday. Post-COVID she made the move and now calls the Algarve home.

Tova shares:
• Her hugely popular women’s retreats in the Algarve – focusing on empowerment, boundaries, pleasure, body image and beautiful intergenerational connections
• The upcoming **Femal Festival** (now in November) – an accessible expansion with workshops, talks and activities for women of all ages
• Her new storytelling show coming to Lisbon on 21 October – funny, feminist, with humor and banter (men are welcome!)
• Cultural differences performing in Portugal vs London and why the expat community here is so supportive
• Her message to women: “You get better. It gets better.”

A warm, honest and uplifting conversation about personal growth, community, creativity and building a new life in Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications for more inspiring stories from Portugal residents 🇵🇹 

More here – https://tovaleigh.com/ 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030) 

#PortugalResidentPodcast #TovaLeigh #WomensRetreatsAlgarve #FemalFestival #PortugalExpats #WomenEmpowerment #AlgarveLiving #LisbonEvents #PortugalWomen #FeministPortugal #MoveToPortugal #PortugalPodcast #CarlMunson #PortugalTalk #AlgarveRetreats #WomensCommunity #PortugalLiving

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Portugal Resident News Review – Episode 23 🇵🇹 In today’s roundup Carl, Natasha and special guest Lonny McLaughlin, American in Porto, cover the big stories making headlines in Portugal:

• The government’s ambitious **grand transformation plan** for the country - www.portugalresident.com/transformation-masterplan-unveiled
• Latest updates on police brutality concerns - www.portugalresident.com/lisbon-police-torture-case-travelling-the-world
• A lighter moment: “Let’s drink tea!” – the Portuguese way to handle the news - www.portugalresident.com/dearest-gentle-reader-how-costume-dramas-and-cult-films-spark-nostalgia-retail

Plus the usual mix of politics, society, expat life and what it all means for those living in (or moving to) Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications so you never miss a Portugal Resident News Review 🇵🇹 

We welcome your views too, & suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com
Lonny - https://lonny-mclaughlin.com 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030) 

#PortugalNews #PortugalNewsReview #PortugalResident #PortugalTransformation #PoliceBrutality #PortugalPolitics #PortugalExpats #PortugalLiving #PortugalTalk #CarlMunson #PortugalCommunity #AlgarveLiving #LisbonLife

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Gerry Fagan, Irish entrepreneur in Portugal, with over fifty years of international investment experience and one of the Algarve’s most respected developers.

Gerry shares his remarkable story:
• First fell in love with Portugal in 1973
• Over 25 years successfully developing residential and mixed-use projects in the Algarve
• Delivered more than **2,500 homes** plus multiple leisure and golf facilities
• As Chairman of DDM, currently leading the development of Reserva da Luz and Nova Terraces
• His philosophy: commercially sound investments that also deliver long-term positive impact and excellent design

In 2025 Gerry received a **Lifetime Achievement Award** from the Portuguese Chamber of Commerce in recognition of his outstanding contribution to the sector.

A warm, insightful conversation about business, vision, family legacy and building a better future in Portugal.

Subscribe and turn on notifications for more inspiring stories from Portugal residents 🇵🇹 

More here – https://www.reservadaluz.com 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030) 

#PortugalResidentPodcast #GerryFagan #AlgarveDeveloper #PortugalRealEstate #IrishInPortugal #OceanicGroup #AlgarveLiving #PortugalExpats #PortugalPodcast #PortugalBusiness #AlgarveEntrepreneur #MoveToPortugal #PortugalResident #Algarve2030 #PortugalTalk #CarlMunson #LifetimeAchievement #ReservaDaLuz #NovaTerraces

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha & Carl welcome Paul Rees in a new, remixed format for the news review, where we'll be joined every Friday by a guest news reviewer.

Paul takes a look at - Governor of Bank of Portugal “also bought shares in Navigator and Nestlé”

Natasha considers - United States’ use of Lajes “minimal”, insists minister of foreign affairs 

And Carl invites comment on - Portugal “well positioned” to attract data centres 

All these and other headlines can be found at - www.portugalresident.com

We welcome your views too, & suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines, as well as guest reviewers to join us. 

Published Fridays 3pm 

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com Paul - www.rural-properties.com 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Jason Miles, American jazz keyboardist, composer, and record producer, now resident in Portugal.

He notably worked with trumpeter Miles Davis, bassist Marcus Miller, and singer Luther Vandross, as well as maintaining a successful solo career. Born in Brooklyn, New York City, he found himself centre-stage when jazz fusion was becoming popular in the 1970s, creating innovative techniques in synthesizer programming and electronic music.

During the 1980s he was a session musician who worked with Davis, Aretha Franklin, Whitney Houston, Michael Jackson, Chaka Khan, Diana Ross, David Sanborn and Luther Vandross.

During the 1990s, he played keyboards on I'm Your Baby Tonight by Whitney Houston, The Power of Love by Luther Vandross, and HIStory by Michael Jackson.

He wrote music for the animated film 'The Snow Queen and People: A Musical Celebration of Diversity' on the Disney Channel. He and his wife Kathy Byalick composed 'Visionary Path', a New Age album with narration by Diana Krall, Roberta Flack and F. Murray Abraham.

In 2000, Miles released The Music of Weather Report, the first of several tribute albums. During the next year he won a Grammy Award for producing 'A Love Affair: The Music of Ivan Lins' with appearances by Sting and Brenda Russell. His next solo album 'To Grover, with Love', was a tribute to Grover Washington Jr. that was nominated for Record of the Year by the National Smooth Jazz Awards. 

His upcoming tribute to Miles Davis - '100 Miles' - who would have been 100 this year, is discussed here with Carl, as well as the lives shows that Jason is performing around Lisbon and Cascais, where he plays and talks about his illustrious musical career.

More here – www.jasonmilesmusic.com 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha & Carl take a look at dissent about desalination as construction looks set to begin in Albufeira, concerns that the global fuel crisis might affect Portuguese tourism, and Portugal's doubts around the reach of renewables.

• www.portugalresident.com/works-on-albufeiras-desalination-plant-to-start-next-week
• www.portugalresident.com/jet-fuel-crisis-stoking-fears-for-summer-tourism
• www.portugalresident.com/renewables-arent-enough-energy-crisis-forces-portugal-to-look-to-oil-gas-and-nuclear www.portugalresident.com/energy-grid-increases-push-towards-biomethane/

We welcome your views too, & suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is the Reverend Em McGowan of Creative Rootz in central Portugal – 'death doula', multi-faith minister, author and passionate permaculture practitioner.

Rev Em shares how she arrived in Portugal “by accident,” fell in love with the quality of life here, and went on to create Creative Rootz – a 4,000 m² off-grid rural project near Castelo Branco, surrounded by olive trees.

What began as a personal healing journey after a cancer diagnosis has become a space for reconnection with nature, permaculture, and supporting people in times of crisis. Through her work with the Share and Care Portugal Facebook group (which she now helps run), Em has become a vital source of compassionate, practical support for the expat community when facing death and grief in a foreign country.

As a trained death doula, she helps people navigate end-of-life care, funerals, and bureaucracy in Portugal – often stepping in at the last minute when others don’t know where to turn.

Her recently published book, 'What to Do When Someone Dies in Portugal', is a much-needed, compassionate handbook that walks readers step-by-step through the practicalities: who to call, what bureaucracy to expect, choices around cremation vs burial, funerals (including non-religious options), obituaries, and what happens afterwards. Written in her warm, grounded voice, the book acts like having Em right there with you – reminding people they have choices and helping reduce unnecessary stress at the hardest of times.

Em emphasises the importance of preparation, personal responsibility, and speaks here of the deep healing that comes from living closer to the land – while honestly warning that off-grid rural life is rewarding but not for everyone (“chop wood, carry water… again and again”).

She is currently working on the next book in her 'What If' series – a practical guide to preparing for life’s unexpected events, whether that’s death, illness, or simply breaking an arm. 

More here - www.creativerootz.com
Buy the book here - https://amzn.eu/d/0grsDj6g 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha & Carl take a look at anonymity of political funding, national news agency concerns, governmental social media scrutiny, house construction on Coimbra's flood plain & continued airport chaos.

• www.portugalresident.com/political-financiers-campaign-backers-no-longer-need-to-be-identified
• www.portugalresident.com/state-news-agency-hears-brussels-will-step-in-if-independence-eroded
• www.portugalresident.com/questions-as-government-pays-e40000-to-monitor-social-networks
• www.portugalresident.com/coimbra-votes-today-on-creating-accessible-housing-on-banks-of-mondego-river
• www.portugalresident.com/airport-agony-passengers-miss-flights-amid-eu-system-failures

We welcome your views too, & suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Johnny Cocktail of the 'My Cocktail Mind' project, which is giving purpose to John and Kim's retirement in Portugal's Algarve, and inspiration to booze fans globally!

Johnny & Kim have been exploring their new home of Portugal to find bars that have earned the 'craft' label, which means they will have signature, original cocktails, utilize fresh and seasonal ingredients, and prepare their own infusions and syrups. 

Their visits, and subsequent videos, include a brief chat with owners and lead bartenders to learn about them, their bar, and their approach to making cocktails. The interviews and photographs can be found on YouTube and social media, and you can help by sending your favourite craft bar finds to the 'happy couple'.

Here, Johnny talks with Carl about how My Cocktail Mind was launched to promote the skilled folks behind the bar who bring their passion, skill, and commitment to hospitality to their patrons, as well as the booze-based discoveries and delights he's found since moving here. "Our hope is that they (the bars and bar-tenders) benefit professionally and financially from this exposure.

We will also strive, with the help of our viewers, to raise funds that will be shared with Portuguese orphanages to help children overcome a challenging start to life," adds Mr Cocktail.

Johhny also shares his recipe for a perfect Portuguese 'Porto Tonico', after Carl's recent and embarrassing online attempts. 

More here - www.mycocktailmind.com 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson take a look at the new President's 'open' approach, the Easter carnage on Portugal's roads, and a brilliant repurposing of already spoiled environments for environmental investments.

Also discussed briefly, the wonders of biogas and Natasha's 'randy' neighbour!

• https://www.portugalresident.com/presidents-quiet-central-walkabout-pushes-government-to-work-harder
• https://www.portugalresident.com/tragic-easter-on-portuguese-roads-20-dead-four-times-higher-than-last-year
• https://www.portugalresident.com/government-orders-study-on-installing-renewables-in-old-mining-areas

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Bobby O'Reilly, the straight-talking Irish investor-developer behind projects in Lisbon and the 'Margem Sul', who saw Ireland's Celtic Tiger boom and bust first-hand and is now sounding the alarm - and offering a practical solution - for Portugal's growing housing crisis.

Bobby brings his hard-earned, Irish experience to Portugal, where he says the successful Golden Visa programme helped rebirth Lisbon and supercharge tourism, but also left a dangerous divide: those already on the property ladder versus a younger generation and working families priced out forever by rising costs, stagnant wages, high taxation, and chronic undersupply of affordable homes.

Now deeply invested in Portugal's future, Bobby warns that the country risks widening inequality, accelerating the brain drain of its well-educated youth, and creating greater state dependency if nothing changes. He argues that Portugal must act “a little bit selfishly” and fast - before other European nations steal the market - because Europe has become the world’s most desirable safe haven amid global uncertainty.

Foreign direct investment should not just enrich the top end, he asserts. It must be channelled to fix the very problems earlier policies helped create.

In the conversation with Carl, Bobby lays out a detailed, 'fiscally responsible', “win-win” plan built around affordable housing schemes. It includes slashing construction taxes, offering income tax credits to first-time local buyers, and reducing social security contributions on both sides to put more money in workers’ pockets and encourage employers to raise wages. The idea is that developers also keep their normal margins, while dramatically increasing supply, which should help stabilise or correct overheated prices.

At the heart of the proposal is rebranding the Golden Visa as a 'Solidarity Visa': lower the threshold to €350,000 but direct the investment into affordable rental housing. Within the vision, investors might enjoy a 10-year tax exemption on rental income (with rents fixed and indexed), boosting their net yield, while locals gain immediate access to quality homes and the government reducing its housing demand burden.

The plan also features government underwriting for value confidence, stealth taxes on luxury items rather than essentials, and pilot roll-outs in five high-demand 'prototype' cities.

Bobby stresses here the need for bipartisan collaboration, political stability, and courageous leadership that puts the bigger picture ahead of short-term politics. He believes this approach can reverse the resignation felt by many young Portuguese and position Portugal as the world’s most attractive residency destination - turning foreign investment into genuine social progress rather than exclusion.

Download Bobby's 'Solidarity Visa' whitepaper here - https://www.skool.com/gmp-vips-1236/how-foreign-investment-can-help-not-harm-portugals-housing-crisis

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson take a look at (more) deeply unpleasant and 'imported' serious crime happening in Portugal, US gratitude offered to Portugal amid Trump's continued conflict with Iran, and disturbing new medical waiting times.

Also discussed briefly, a huge Easter 'folar', and reactions to this year's Ressie 'April Fool', which seems to have both touched nerves, and funny bones, among readers.

• https://www.portugalresident.com/body-of-missing-algarve-businessman-discovered-in-scrubland-near-loule/
• https://www.portugalresident.com/pj-investigates-burning-body-discovered-in-almada/
• https://www.portugalresident.com/portugal-receives-united-states-thanks-for-defence-cooperation/
• https://www.portugalresident.com/foreign-minister-attends-first-crisis-meeting-on-strait-of-hormuz/
• https://www.portugalresident.com/state-health-service-waiting-times-already-lengthy-set-to-double/

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com 

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Paolo Funassi, the larger-than-life Italian creator of Albufeira Paradise and Algarve Paradise, the social media phenomenon with 152,000 members and more than 15 million monthly views across Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, TikTok and Snapchat.

A former president of a public company and political aide to senators and parliament in Italy, Paolo walked away from the rat race at just 40 years old, determined to live the 'beach-style life' while he was still young rather than wait for retirement.

After a solo 15-day winter tour of Portugal, he instantly fell in love with Albufeira’s energy and never left - now nearing 50, happily married, and proudly declaring that if he ever wants silence he can simply go to the cemetery, because he much prefers the noise, music and non-stop party atmosphere of the stadium over anything quiet or museum-like.

There he built his platforms from the ground up, hitting the streets day and night to capture the good vibes, events, beaches and wild parties - especially the legendary fun brought by British and Irish visitors, whom he calls the most enjoyable people on the planet when they’re on holiday.

Paolo deliberately focuses only on the positive side of Albufeira, turning his channels into the go-to unfiltered window on the town for followers from Zambia to New Zealand. He shares his deep affection for the Portuguese 'Dolce Vita' - living in shorts and flip-flops ten months a year, the international mix, the secret beaches, the hills of Paderne, and the perfect balance of wild nights and peaceful days - while openly acknowledging that with half a million tourists in summer, not everything is perfect.

Looking to the future, Paolo calls for better infrastructure, city cleaning, security, healthcare and stronger year-round promotion to attract digital nomads and extend the season beyond sun-and-beach. A passionate advocate for integration in a town where 59% of residents are foreign, he even campaigned for a cricket field so everyone can feel at home.

His advice to visitors is refreshingly simple: know exactly what you’re looking for - full-on fun in the Old Town or quiet family beaches - and plan accordingly. Paolo has also written 21 books about Albufeira and the Algarve, available on Amazon, all created just for the love of sharing this special place he now calls home. 

More — https://www.facebook.com/groups/901551317540511

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson take a look at the horrific case of a Frenchman thought to have killed his partner and ex-partner and buried their bodies in Portugal, having kidnapped them and their children.

Natasha also brings together a number of Iran war-related articles in an attempt to understand the implications of the conflict for Portugal, in what is a very a confusing and messy news environment.

• https://www.portugalresident.com/found-dead-partner-and-ex-of-frenchman-arrested-in-portugal-last-night/

Second, and regarding the war, we have a few links:

• https://www.portugalresident.com/missiles-can-hit-all-european-countries-except-portugal/
• https://www.portugalresident.com/portugal-joins-group-of-30-ready-to-help-reopen-strait-of-hormuz/
• https://www.portugalresident.com/largest-and-most-lethal-u-s-drones-expected-to-land-at-lajes-airbase-within-hours/
• https://www.portugalresident.com/united-states-vice-president-jd-vance-lands-in-porto-airport/

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Sara Allen, Real Estate Sales Director at Martinhal Family Hotels and Resorts, who began her Portugal journey in 1999 as a 21-year-old Algarve holiday rep', after mistakenly thinking she was heading to Egypt!

She fell in love with Portugal, stayed on, and became her company's Faro airport controller handling dramatic fog-related flight diversions to Seville and Lisbon, and moved into real estate with Winkworth before joining Martinhal.

There she managed owner relations in Sagres and later drove sales, especially during the Golden Visa boom, helping bring international investment to Portugal that helped revitalise areas like Chiado and later Oriente and Parque das Nações.

Here, Sarah shares her deep affection for Portuguese coastal living, food (especially chocolate salami), the warm people, easy travel and blue skies, advising newcomers to step out of their comfort zone to build local friendships.

She also has a great hack for airport users.

She is currently training for the London Marathon to raise funds for Pancreatic Cancer UK in memory of her mother, and speaks of her special relationship to running.

More about Martinhal Residences – www.martinhal.com 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson take a look at the hit and run 'influencer' mentioned last week, now charged; Portuguese tourism's respectful response to war-inspired trade; war impact on Portugal's energy prices, and disgusted Americans.

https://www.portugalresident.com/influencer-who-laughed-online-about-hit-and-run-formally-charged

https://www.portugalresident.com/opportunity-or-obstacle-iran-war-raises-questions-for-portugals-tourism-sector

https://www.portugalresident.com/government-prepares-safeguards-against-energetic-crisis

https://www.portugalresident.com/almost-50-of-americans-moving-to-portugal-open-to-renouncing-u-s-citizenship/

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com

Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is João Ferreira of Animal Rescue Algarve, a charitable association which owns and operates an animal shelter dedicated to the betterment of dog and cat welfare in Portugal.

João is ARA's Manager and Animal Health & Welfare Coordinator. Hear, here, the inspiring story of how the shelter came into being thanks to the vision of British businessman Sid Richardson who uttered those immortal words: “I have a dream…”.

"Born not from a grand gesture, but from the bond with a single rescue dog – a retriever adopted from a shelter in the Algarve," is how it all began.

"That dog became a best friend. And that friendship sparked a life-changing decision. “Why wait until I’m gone to build something meaningful? Let’s do it now,” thought Sid, and the rest is history, but with a very particular future in mind, that needs constant and significant help.

"From a forested valley in Cabanita, we cleared land, laid foundations, and built one of Europe’s most respected animal shelters – an eco-friendly haven where love and dignity replace fear and abandonment," says ARA's website, which is a joy to visit whilst impressing upon the visitor, the project's ongoing needs.

Of particular note is ARA's approach to what happens to the pets of older adopters, who fear what might happen to their 'faithful friend', if and when they pass away, leaving the animal abandoned, once more.

"If you register and accept our Legacy Pet Plan, we will welcome your paw-friend into ARA, probably the best animal shelter in Portugal, where we’ve a large live-in ratio of staff & volunteers and a restricted number of animals.

The Legacy Pet Plan doesn’t have a standard cost, but we appeal to your charity," they say. If you are interested in obtaining more information, contact: legacy@animalrescuealgarve.com

More about Animal Rescue Algarve – https://animalrescuealgarve.com 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson take a look at strange goings-on in the Portuguese justice (or lack of it) system, deafening political silence around one of the country's top policing roles, and the American urge to protest in peaceful Portugal.

https://www.portugalresident.com/influencer-who-joked-about-hit-and-run-inches-closer-to-hearing-whether-he-faces-charges/

https://www.portugalresident.com/algarve-killer-nurse-may-dodge-deportation-from-indonesia/

https://www.portugalresident.com/pj-criminal-police-force-in-institutional-limbo/

https://www.portugalresident.com/americans-in-portugal-to-stage-lisbon-protest-over-us-politics/

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines. 

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com

Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Eric Roth is a freelance photojournalist living in the Algarve who, for The Resident, covers arts, culture and the environment.

Eric specializes in photographic reportage of subjects ranging from interiors, architecture, and landscapes, and the people who dwell in them. He envisions an emphasis on the feeling of a place and the beauty of living there.

Striving for excitement, creativity, and versatility, on assignment, he will capture evocative details, vignettes, portraits of people and pets, food, and whatever else enhances the story's telling. He has become especially fascinated by the beauty and life of Portugal, and also travels worldwide to capture images for fine art, editorial, advertising, and marketing for photography galleries, designers, architects, manufacturers, retailers, craftsmen, and artisans.

Eric's photographs are published in numerous national and regional magazines, on a variety of websites, and in several books. Many of his photographs adorn the walls of his clients' homes.

More – www.portugalresident.com/author/eric-roth & ericrothphoto.com 

Email: ericrothphoto@gmail.com

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson take a look at how the EU is fining Portugal for environmental failings, the Ukrainian 'unicorn' that's making a bomb with a UK politician, and Montenegro's scant protection of fuel buyers as prices inevitably rise.

www.portugalresident.com/eu-court-fines-portugal-e10-million-for-environmental-failings/

www.portugalresident.com/ukrainian-company-producing-drones-in-portugal-becomes-unicorn/

www.portugalresident.com/pm-pledges-to-reduce-tax-on-fuel-if-prices-rise-too-high/

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com

Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is David Thomas of Safe Communities Portugal, who shares with us the origins of this hugely helpful civic protection service that has grown steadily over the years to become a principal source of safety awareness in the country.

Safe Communities Portugal (SCP) is an operating name of Associação SCP Safe Communities Portugal, the country’s only registered national non-profit association providing a 'one stop shop' of crime prevention and public information concerning security and safety.

As a volunteer-run public service organisation, their services and information are available free of charge to all members of the community. No membership is necessary to receive this.

The aim of SCP is by working together to promote safer communities, enhance security awareness and reduce the risk of becoming a victim of crime. It does this through a number of specific objectives covering police/public engagement; communication and awareness; as well as public support in the fight against crime and promoting civil protection awareness.

SCP promotes community policing by engaging the police and the community, as well as stimulating citizens' own responsibilities in cooperating with the police, in order to reduce overall crime and the fear of crime. This helps keep neighbourhoods safe and improves the quality of life for everyone. For residents living in, or persons visiting certain regions in Portugal, SCP has created specific “safe communities”, detailing the services it provides in those areas.

To date these are: Safe Communities Algarve, Safe Communities Lisbon and Safe Communities Madeira. SCP works closely with the Ministry of Internal Administration, GNR, PSP, Judicial Police, SEF, ANEPC, ASAE, ICNF, and Turismo de Portugal, the municipalities, various Embassies and many other authorities in helping to keep Portugal a safe place to live and visit.

Mission: The mission of Safe Communities Portugal is to promote safer communities, enhance public safety and security awareness and reduce the risk of becoming a victim of disasters or crime.

More – www.safecommunitiesportugal.com 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson take a look at the Coimbra Mayor's post-disaster public castigation of Portugal's Agriculture Minister, the appointment of top cop as Minister of Internal Affairs (and what that means); as well as the Government's refusal to get specific on spending around public projects and recovery.

www.portugalresident.com/agriculture-minister-gets-lesson-in-good-manners/

www.portugalresident.com/police-chief-turns-minister-government-thinks-outside-box/

www.portugalresident.com/government-admits-deficit-stressing-post-storms-transformation-wont-jeopardise-public-accounts/

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

(apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Jeremy Colledge, who has been a student of Qigong for nearly 35 years, and a teacher for more than 25 years, now living on Portugal's Silver Coast.

An insured Qigong therapist, healer and teacher specialising in all types of chronic illness, he had spent many years searching for the 'bridge' between Eastern medicine and Western science until his discovery of Quantum Physics.

The connection between the two is now very clear for Jeremy, who teaches in his local Portuguese village, online and all over the world.

Hoping to share this ancient and potentially powerful wellbeing and longevity modality to locals, expats and tourists alike, he is also currently making a documentary about 'Zhineng' Qigong, his preferred and beloved style.

More – quantumqigong.co.uk 

(apoiado pelos #FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional #ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson take a look at coastal erosion in the wake of, and in addition to, recent devastation, a horrifying TAP near miss in the Czech Republic, and 'dark' Russian ships in Portuguese waters.

They also take a look at yesterday's eathquakes, talk of personal experience and offer some general safety advice.

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com (

apoiado pelos#FundosEuropeus, no âmbito do Programa Regional#ALGARVE2030)

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Daisy Sampson, who first moved to Portugal over 20 years ago, and started her professional career as a junior reporter at The Resident, before moving into the world of PR and marketing under the guidance of Alda Filipe (see last week's interview) in Vale do Lobo.

In her last role before joining afpop, Daisy was the editor at The Portugal News where she also read the news for Kiss FM, the Algarve's local radio station. As the CEO of afpop, the largest Association for foreign residents in Portugal, she and the dedicated team at the non-profit association, provide members with a comprehensive range of information services and support.

From guiding members through residency and bureaucracy issues, to updates about new laws and regulations, the association is on hand to help members at every stage of their Portugal journey, while also offering opportunities to socialise and to take advantage of exclusive member benefits and discounts.

Over the almost 40 years since its humble beginnings, afpop has helped over 37,000 Members to navigate their way around living, working and enjoying Portugal, and currently has a membership of over 9,000 active members.

Daisy lives in the central Algarve with her teenage daughters and Canadian partner. More – https://afpop.com/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson take a look at the continuing and calamitous challenges to daily life in Portugal – what happens next, how well Portugal is coping, and will continue to cope and recover in the months ahead.

They also take a brief look at Portugal's proposed social media controls for young people – good practice? Or something more sinister?

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Alda Filipe, partner and Regional Director at the Kronos Real Estate Group, who oversees the development and sales of an extensive asset portfolio in the Algarve, including the luxury resort Vale do Lobo, where she also serves as a board member.

With over 20 years of experience, primarily focused on luxury golf and beach resort developments, Alda is truly an 'Algarve ambassador', who shares with us here, her passion for real estate, her region, for Portugal, and spear-fishing!

Happy at the highest levels of the industry, Alda is also an investor and host herself, sharing the beauty and simplicity of the life she lives and loves in the Algarve with people from all over the world, notably in recent times, from the US.

Her passion for Portugal, specifically the Algarve and the diverse range of excellent opportunities it offers, is delightfully clear in our conversation, as are her hopes for the country in these fast-changing and turbulent times.

More – www.kronosre.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha Donn & Carl Munson, take a look at the headlines that highlight the continuing challenge for Portugal, as storms Kristin and Leonardo are followed by Marta, and the 'State of Calamity' is extended.

The clear up continues, aid is forthcoming, but river levels are rising, as rain forecasts continue for a further week.

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm 

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com

Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com 

More at www.portugalresident.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Miguel Franco, creator of 'High Flow CEO', who has just arrived in Portugal, from Brazil, via a 45 year detour in the US.

A visionary mentor, transformational & heart-centred teacher, his clients & students include Silicon Valley founders, top level race car drivers, artists, course creators, online entrepreneurs, therapists & spiritual seekers; and now for others making a life-changing move, as he & wife Vanessa have.

For the last 40 years, Miguel has leveraged his extraordinary gifts, expertise and engineering background to help transform inner driven and creative leaders into High Flow CEOs through his best selling books and trainings.

This process will now be available in a migration context which is intended to make the most of any move.

His lifelong passion is racing, and he’s currently preparing himself for a comeback, inspiring people of all ages and backgrounds to believe in themselves, to be bold and to go after their dreams.

More – www.highflowceo.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

In this episode, Natasha with Carl Munson, takes a look at the immediate aftermath of devastating storm Kristin, felt worst in the Leiria district of Portugal where a 'State of Calamity' has been declared.

Natasha and Carl welcome your views each week too, and suggestions of topics and tangents that they might explore behind and beyond the headlines.

Published Fridays 3pm

Contact Natasha – natasha.donn@portugalresident.com 
Contact Carl – carl@carlmunson.com

More at www.portugalresident.com

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com

Our guest today is Tom Caston, Principal of the Bright International School in Loulé, Algarve, who studied Geography at the University of Exeter and later obtained an MSc in Managing School Improvement from the University of Reading.

Before embarking on his teaching career, he worked in investment banking. In 1999, he began teaching at Shiplake College, where he later became Head of Lower School.

He then held senior management positions in several independent schools across the United Kingdom, including Head of Staff Development at Ardingly College and, more recently, Deputy Head at Framlingham College.

Following these roles, Tom served as Head of Mander Portman Woodward, Cambridge, for four years before joining Bright International School in August 2024.

More - https://bright-is.com/about-us/

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-resident-podcast--6801411/support.

www.portugalresident.com