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Podcast Portugal is available to subscibe on Spotify, YouTube, Amazon and Apple Podcasts.
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You can also listen or download each episode below.
guest line up.
Meet the voices behind the stories — every Friday, we release a new episode featuring inspiring guests from across Portugal and beyond, including artists, chefs, winemakers, musicians, historians, entrepreneurs, locals and expats.
Explore our diverse guest line-up and discover the people shaping Portuguese culture, food, travel, and daily life.
Aldeias do Futuro: Heitor Carvalho on Rural Regeneration in Portugal.
Aldeias do Futuro: Heitor Carvalho on Rural Regeneration in Portugal.
A documentary filmmaker's journey through Portugal's ecovillages, intentional communities and the Re.Rural movement.
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 travelling across the country, visiting intentional communities, ecovillages and grassroots local projects. His work highlights the Re.Rural movement, which shows how abandoned and ageing villages are being revitalised as hubs for community living, ecological cooperation and sustainable land stewardship. Rather than portraying traditional villages as relics of the past, the documentary frames them as modern laboratories for learning how to live together and manage land sustainably.
Justin and Heitor discuss the making of the documentary, the communities he encountered along the way, and the broader questions his work raises about community living, ecological transition and Portugal's shifting relationship with the land.
For information about Heitor and his storytelling you could follow his Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/heitor.poema
For direct links to his documentary and his philosophy click on his website link below:
Follow the movement on:
A documentary filmmaker's journey through Portugal's ecovillages, intentional communities and the Re.Rural movement.
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 travelling across the country, visiting intentional communities, ecovillages and grassroots local projects. His work highlights the Re.Rural movement, which shows how abandoned and ageing villages are being revitalised as hubs for community living, ecological cooperation and sustainable land stewardship. Rather than portraying traditional villages as relics of the past, the documentary frames them as modern laboratories for learning how to live together and manage land sustainably.
Justin and Heitor discuss the making of the documentary, the communities he encountered along the way, and the broader questions his work raises about community living, ecological transition and Portugal's shifting relationship with the land.
For information about Heitor and his storytelling you could follow his Instagram:
https://www.instagram.com/heitor.poema
For direct links to his documentary and his philosophy click on his website link below:
Follow the movement on:
Functional Mushrooms, Urban Farming and the Future of Wellness in Portugal.
Functional Mushrooms, Urban Farming and the Future of Wellness in Portugal.
How Claudia and Gribb Are Building a Circular, Science-Led Wellness Brand From the Heart of the Algarve.
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.
Functional Mushrooms, Urban Farming and the Future of Wellness in Portugal
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 Portugal, Justin West sits down with Claudia, founder of Gribb, to explore how one Portuguese company is challenging industry norms through transparency, science and a unique farm-to-bottle approach.
Based in Portimão in the Algarve, Gribb is a certified organic functional mushroom farm founded by Claudia and her partner Ion. Rather than importing ingredients or outsourcing production, Gribb controls the entire process, from cultivation and harvesting through to extraction and bottling. Their mission is simple: create trustworthy wellness products while educating consumers about the extraordinary potential of functional mushrooms.
The conversation explores the rapidly growing world of functional mushrooms, including species traditionally used to support focus, immunity, energy, recovery and overall wellbeing. Claudia explains why mushrooms have fascinated scientists, nutritionists and health-conscious consumers for centuries and why they are experiencing renewed interest today.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Gribb story is its commitment to circular sustainability. The farm repurposes sawdust waste from local wood workshops in Monchique as growing substrate and operates from a revitalised urban space in the centre of Portimão. After harvest, spent mushroom substrate is returned to local farms, creating a circular system that reduces waste while supporting local agriculture.
Beyond mushrooms, this episode examines broader questions about modern health, consumer trust and entrepreneurship. Claudia discusses why so many people are seeking natural alternatives to support their wellbeing and why transparency has become one of the most valuable currencies in today’s wellness market.
Justin and Claudia also discuss the realities of launching and scaling a purpose-driven business in Portugal, the challenges facing small producers, and how education is becoming as important as the products themselves. Through Gribb’s growing community, educational content and commitment to scientific literacy, the company aims to help consumers make informed decisions rather than simply follow the latest health trend.
For entrepreneurs, health enthusiasts, sustainability advocates and anyone curious about the future of nutrition and wellness, this conversation provides a fascinating look inside one of Portugal’s most innovative emerging wellness brands.
What You’ll Learn In This Episode
What functional mushrooms actually are.
The science behind mushroom-based wellness products.
Whyconsumers are demanding greater transparency from supplement brands.
How urban farming can reduce environmental impact.
The role of circular economy principles in modern agriculture.
Building a purpose-driven business in Portugal.
The future of wellness and preventative health.
How local production can strengthen communities.
Common myths surrounding mushrooms and naturalhealth.
Why education is becoming central to thewellness movement.
About Claudia
Claudia is the co-founder and CEO of Gribb, a certified organic functional mushroom company based in Portimão, Portugal. Alongside co-founder Ion, she has built a vertically integrated wellness business focused on transparency, sustainability, scientific education and the power of functional mushrooms. From urban farming and circular production systems to consumer education and community engagement, Gribb represents a new generation of wellness brands built on trust and authenticity.
Contact or buy mushrooms here!
How Claudia and Gribb Are Building a Circular, Science-Led Wellness Brand From the Heart of the Algarve.
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 Portugal, Justin West sits down with Claudia, founder of Gribb, to explore how one Portuguese company is challenging industry norms through transparency, science and a unique farm-to-bottle approach.
Based in Portimão in the Algarve, Gribb is a certified organic functional mushroom farm founded by Claudia and her partner Ion. Rather than importing ingredients or outsourcing production, Gribb controls the entire process, from cultivation and harvesting through to extraction and bottling. Their mission is simple: create trustworthy wellness products while educating consumers about the extraordinary potential of functional mushrooms.
The conversation explores the rapidly growing world of functional mushrooms, including species traditionally used to support focus, immunity, energy, recovery and overall wellbeing. Claudia explains why mushrooms have fascinated scientists, nutritionists and health-conscious consumers for centuries and why they are experiencing renewed interest today.
One of the most fascinating aspects of the Gribb story is its commitment to circular sustainability. The farm repurposes sawdust waste from local wood workshops in Monchique as growing substrate and operates from a revitalised urban space in the centre of Portimão. After harvest, spent mushroom substrate is returned to local farms, creating a circular system that reduces waste while supporting local agriculture.
Beyond mushrooms, this episode examines broader questions about modern health, consumer trust and entrepreneurship. Claudia discusses why so many people are seeking natural alternatives to support their wellbeing and why transparency has become one of the most valuable currencies in today’s wellness market.
Justin and Claudia also discuss the realities of launching and scaling a purpose-driven business in Portugal, the challenges facing small producers, and how education is becoming as important as the products themselves. Through Gribb’s growing community, educational content and commitment to scientific literacy, the company aims to help consumers make informed decisions rather than simply follow the latest health trend.
For entrepreneurs, health enthusiasts, sustainability advocates and anyone curious about the future of nutrition and wellness, this conversation provides a fascinating look inside one of Portugal’s most innovative emerging wellness brands.
About Claudia
Claudia is the co-founder and CEO of Gribb, a certified organic functional mushroom company based in Portimão, Portugal. Alongside co-founder Ion, she has built a vertically integrated wellness business focused on transparency, sustainability, scientific education and the power of functional mushrooms. From urban farming and circular production systems to consumer education and community engagement, Gribb represents a new generation of wellness brands built on trust and authenticity.
Contact Gribb & buy mushrooms click here!
Listen Now
Listen to the full conversation on Podcast Portugal and discover how functional mushrooms, sustainable farming and science-backed wellness are helping shape the future of health in Portugal and beyond.
Discovering Portugal Through Food: Jamie Kristian’s Global Food Quest
Discovering Portugal Through Food: Jamie Kristian’s Global Food Quest
From international actor to food storyteller, Jamie Kristian shares how Portugal’s culture, cuisine and traditions became the heart of his global culinary adventure.
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 international recognition.
The conversation explores traditional fishing communities in Costa da Caparica, regional festivals, Alentejo wine culture, ancient Talha winemaking traditions, Portugal’s remarkable diversity of local foods and the powerful role food plays in bringing people together.
Justin and Jamie also discuss travel, wellbeing, community, outdoor living and why Portugal continues to attract people seeking a richer quality of life.
Podcast Portugal — Voices of Portugal, Stories for the World.
Revolut Personal click this link
Revolut Business referral link
Use the code NEWTOAIRALO15 to receive 15% discount on eSIMs smarter, stay connected — download Airalo SIM cards before your next adventure.
To book flexible dates surf coaching sessions, to find out about immersive surf training camps, online video analysis program and special JWC rates for using SurfREC, head to justinwestcoaching.com
From international actor to food storyteller, Jamie Kristian shares how Portugal’s culture, cuisine and traditions became the heart of his global culinary adventure.
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 international recognition.
The conversation explores traditional fishing communities in Costa da Caparica, regional festivals, Alentejo wine culture, ancient Talha winemaking traditions, Portugal’s remarkable diversity of local foods and the powerful role food plays in bringing people together.
Justin and Jamie also discuss travel, wellbeing, community, outdoor living and why Portugal continues to attract people seeking a richer quality of life.
Podcast Portugal — Voices of Portugal, Stories for the World.
Revolut Personal click this link
Revolut Business referral link
Use the code NEWTOAIRALO15 to receive 15% discount on eSIMs smarter, stay connected — download Airalo SIM cards before your next adventure.
To book flexible dates surf coaching sessions, to find out about immersive surf training camps, online video analysis program and special JWC rates for using SurfREC, head to justinwestcoaching.com
Hollywood to the Algarve: Kam Heskin on Life, Change and Portugal.
Hollywood to the Algarve: Kam Heskin on Life, Change and Portugal.
The actress, writer and presenter discusses Hollywood, family, reinvention, and discovering Portugal.
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 reflects on the experiences that shaped her career and the lessons she learned from life in Hollywood. She discusses the realities behind the entertainment industry, the importance of resilience, and how success can evolve as priorities change throughout different stages of life.
The conversation explores how Portugal first entered her world and what initially attracted her to the country. Kam shares her impressions of the Algarve, the qualities that make Portugal stand out internationally, and the welcoming atmosphere that so many visitors experience when they arrive.
Justin and Kam discuss the practical and emotional aspects of embracing change, raising a family, and navigating different chapters of life. They explore the cultural differences between Portugal and the United States, the hospitality of the Portuguese people, and the slower pace of life that many find refreshing.
The episode also examines the theme of reinvention. Having experienced several career transitions, Kam offers thoughtful insights into embracing uncertainty, remaining creative, and finding fulfilment beyond professional labels and expectations.
As a presenter with The Portugal News, Kam has gained a unique perspective on the country, sharing stories and helping introduce Portugal to an international audience. She discusses what she has learned through that experience and highlights aspects of Portuguese life that deserve greater recognition abroad.
Whether you are considering spending time in Portugal, curious about life in the Algarve, or interested in stories of personal transformation and new beginnings, this conversation offers an engaging and honest perspective on one woman's journey through change, creativity and discovery.
Follow Kam Heskin
The Portugal News
Topics Discussed
Hollywood and the entertainment industry
Life in the Algarve
Portuguese culture and hospitality
Family and personal growth
Reinvention and embracing change
Creativity beyond acting
The Portugal News
What makes Portugal attractive internationally
Quality of life in Portugal
Advice for those considering time in Portugal
Favourite places, food and hidden gems
Podcast Portugal — Voices of Portugal, Stories for the World.
Revolut Personal click this link
Revolut Business referral link
Use the code NEWTOAIRALO15 to receive 15% discount on eSIMs smarter, stay connected — download Airalo SIM cards before your next adventure.
To book flexible dates surf coaching sessions, to find out about immersive surf training camps, online video analysis program and special JWC rates for using SurfREC, head to justinwestcoaching.com
The actress, writer and presenter discusses Hollywood, family, reinvention, and discovering Portugal.
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 reflects on the experiences that shaped her career and the lessons she learned from life in Hollywood. She discusses the realities behind the entertainment industry, the importance of resilience, and how success can evolve as priorities change throughout different stages of life.
The conversation explores how Portugal first entered her world and what initially attracted her to the country. Kam shares her impressions of the Algarve, the qualities that make Portugal stand out internationally, and the welcoming atmosphere that so many visitors experience when they arrive.
Justin and Kam discuss the practical and emotional aspects of embracing change, raising a family, and navigating different chapters of life. They explore the cultural differences between Portugal and the United States, the hospitality of the Portuguese people, and the slower pace of life that many find refreshing.
The episode also examines the theme of reinvention. Having experienced several career transitions, Kam offers thoughtful insights into embracing uncertainty, remaining creative, and finding fulfilment beyond professional labels and expectations.
As a presenter with The Portugal News, Kam has gained a unique perspective on the country, sharing stories and helping introduce Portugal to an international audience. She discusses what she has learned through that experience and highlights aspects of Portuguese life that deserve greater recognition abroad.
Whether you are considering spending time in Portugal, curious about life in the Algarve, or interested in stories of personal transformation and new beginnings, this conversation offers an engaging and honest perspective on one woman's journey through change, creativity and discovery.
Follow Kam Heskin
The Portugal News
Topics Discussed
Hollywood and the entertainment industry
Life in the Algarve
Portuguese culture and hospitality
Family and personal growth
Reinvention and embracing change
Creativity beyond acting
The Portugal News
What makes Portugal attractive internationally
Quality of life in Portugal
Advice for those considering time in Portugal
Favourite places, food and hidden gems
Podcast Portugal — Voices of Portugal, Stories for the World.
Revolut Personal click this link
Revolut Business referral link
Use the code NEWTOAIRALO15 to receive 15% discount on eSIMs smarter, stay connected — download Airalo SIM cards before your next adventure.
To book flexible dates surf coaching sessions, to find out about immersive surf training camps, online video analysis program and special JWC rates for using SurfREC, head to justinwestcoaching.com
TALHA MAFIA.
Talha Mafia.
Ancient Amphora Wine Traditions, Natural Winemaking & Portugal’s New Wine Revolution.
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 countryside, this episode is essential listening for wine lovers planning a trip to Portugal.
Podcast Portugal sits down with the team behind Talha Mafia Wines to discuss how a small family-run project in the Alentejo is helping revive one of the oldest winemaking methods in the world. Using traditional clay amphoras known as “talhas”, Talha Mafia produces small-batch natural wines with minimal intervention, embracing both ancient techniques and modern creativity.
The conversation explores the growing global fascination with Portuguese wine tourism and why regions like Vidigueira and Vila de Frades are becoming must-visit destinations for travellers seeking authentic food, wine and cultural experiences beyond Lisbon and Porto. We discuss the rise of sustainable wines in Portugal, the appeal of natural wine culture, and why Portuguese wines continue to offer exceptional quality and value compared to many international wine regions.
We also dive into the story behind Talha Mafia’s rebellious branding, their philosophy of low-intervention winemaking, the history of amphora-aged wines dating back to Roman times, and how Portugal is preserving ancient traditions while attracting a new generation of wine enthusiasts from around the world.
Whether you are passionate about wine, planning an enotourism trip through Portugal, searching for authentic Alentejo experiences, or simply curious about Portugal’s thriving food and wine culture, this episode offers a fascinating insight into one of the country’s most unique and historic wine movements.
Revolut Personal click this link
Revolut Business referral link
Use the code NEWTOAIRALO15 to receive 15% discount on eSIMs smarter, stay connected — download Airalo SIM cards before your next adventure.
To book flexible dates surf coaching sessions, to find out about immersive surf training camps, online video analysis program and special JWC rates for using SurfREC, head to justinwestcoaching.com
Ancient Amphora Wine Traditions, Natural Winemaking & Portugal’s New Wine Revolution.
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 countryside, this episode is essential listening for wine lovers planning a trip to Portugal.
Podcast Portugal sits down with the team behind Talha Mafia Wines to discuss how a small family-run project in the Alentejo is helping revive one of the oldest winemaking methods in the world. Using traditional clay amphoras known as “talhas”, Talha Mafia produces small-batch natural wines with minimal intervention, embracing both ancient techniques and modern creativity.
The conversation explores the growing global fascination with Portuguese wine tourism and why regions like Vidigueira and Vila de Frades are becoming must-visit destinations for travellers seeking authentic food, wine and cultural experiences beyond Lisbon and Porto. We discuss the rise of sustainable wines in Portugal, the appeal of natural wine culture, and why Portuguese wines continue to offer exceptional quality and value compared to many international wine regions.
We also dive into the story behind Talha Mafia’s rebellious branding, their philosophy of low-intervention winemaking, the history of amphora-aged wines dating back to Roman times, and how Portugal is preserving ancient traditions while attracting a new generation of wine enthusiasts from around the world.
Whether you are passionate about wine, planning an enotourism trip through Portugal, searching for authentic Alentejo experiences, or simply curious about Portugal’s thriving food and wine culture, this episode offers a fascinating insight into one of the country’s most unique and historic wine movements.
Revolut Personal click this link
Revolut Business referral link
Use the code NEWTOAIRALO15 to receive 15% discount on eSIMs smarter, stay connected — download Airalo SIM cards before your next adventure.
To book flexible dates surf coaching sessions, to find out about immersive surf training camps, online video analysis program and special JWC rates for using SurfREC, head to justinwestcoaching.com