EPISODE 13 CHILDBIRTH IN PORTUGAL

Podcast Portugal Episode 13: ChildBirth in Portugal with Iliona Wolfowicz

Navigating Pregnancy, Birth, and Parenthood as a Foreigner in Portugal

In this episode of Podcast Portugal, we sit down with Iliona Wolfowicz, PhD, a scientist turned doula, educator, and founder of Birth in Portugal. Iliona shares her personal journey from a career in cell biology to supporting women and families navigating pregnancy, birth, and parenting—especially as foreigners or multicultural families in Portugal.

We explore her positive birth experience, the unique aspects of Portugal’s maternity care system, and the challenges parents face when moving to a new country. Iliona explains the role of a doula, the importance of informed birth choices, and how mindfulness, body literacy, and natural family planning can empower women and families.

Whether you're expecting, parenting, or simply curious about the birth experience in Portugal, this episode is packed with valuable insights, practical advice, and inspiring stories.

Highlights:

• Iliona’s transition from cell biology to birth education and family-centered care

• Navigating Portugal’s maternity system as a foreigner or multicultural family

• The role of doulas and the importance of physiologic birth

• Empowering women through body literacy and natural family planning

• Holistic parenting and the benefits of free, natural play for children

Connect with Iliona:

• Learn more about Birth in Portugal

• Subscribe to her newsletter for updates on her upcoming tool for multicultural families in Portugal.

Tune in now to gain valuable knowledge and inspiration for your parenting journey in Portugal!

Guest: Iliona Wolfowicz, PhD, Doula, Founder of Birth in Portugal
Host: Justin West

EPISODE 12 CULTIVATING THE FUTURE

Episode 12 Cultivating the Future: Innovation & Sustainability in Portuguese Agriculture with Daniel Montes

How Innovation, Sustainability, and Technology Are Shaping the Future of Portuguese Agriculture with Daniel Montes

Episode Summary:

Welcome back to Podcast Portugal! I'm your host, Justin West, and this is Episode 12. Today, we’re diving into the world of sustainable agriculture with Daniel Montes—an agronomic engineer, bioenergy expert, and agricultural entrepreneur leading innovative projects across Portugal.

After beginning his career in biofuels and biotech investment, Daniel returned to Portugal to modernise Trevo – Floresta, Agricultura e Ambiente. Now, he spearheads initiatives in regenerative farming, CO₂ reduction, and water conservation while managing 40 hectares of almond orchards and advising 16 producers across 900 hectares of fruit farms.

In this episode, we discuss the challenges of sustainable farming, the role of technology in agriculture, and the future of food production in Portugal. From water scarcity to labor shortages, Daniel shares insights on the key issues shaping modern farming and how innovation is paving the way forward.

Tune in to explore how Portugal’s agricultural landscape is evolving and what it means for farmers, consumers, and the environment.

Episode Breakdown:

1. Introduction

• Welcome & introduction to Daniel Montes.

• Overview of his career—from bioenergy research to leading Trevo and managing orchards.

• The intersection of science, entrepreneurship, and regenerative sustainability in agriculture.

2. Early Career & Bioenergy

• What are biofuels, and why was this an exciting field of study?

• What are carbon credits?

• What drew Daniel back to Portugal and the Alqueva project?

3. Trevo & Agricultural Entrepreneurship

• What is Trevo, and how does it support sustainable farming?

• The importance of forest restoration, hedgerow planting, and water conservation.

• Challenges of managing large-scale fruit orchards.

4. Sustainability & Climate Challenges

• The impact of water in the Alqueva region.

• Strategies for water conservation and sustainable land management.

• How EU pesticide regulations affect fruit and almond farming.

5. The Role of Technology & Mechanisation

• How technology is transforming modern agriculture.

• The role of mechanisation in addressing labor shortages.

• Challenges for small farmers in adopting new technologies.

6. Labor & the Future of Farming

• The struggle to find agricultural workers and its impact on local society.

• Will seasonal labor always be necessary, or can technology change that?

• Potential policies and innovations to improve agricultural labor sustainability.

7. Looking Ahead: Opportunities & Innovation

• Key opportunities in Portuguese agriculture over the next decade.

• Future plans for Daniel’s personal farming projects.

• Advice for young professionals interested in agronomy and sustainable farming.

8. Closing & Key Takeaways

• Final thoughts from Daniel Montes.

• Where listeners can follow his work or learn more.

• Outro and thanks.

Join us for this insightful conversation on the future of farming in Portugal!

To contact Daniels consultancy firm, Trevo.

EPISODE 3 ALEXANDRE RELVAS JR

Crafting Wines and Cultivating Legacy with Alexandre Relvas Jr.

In this episode, we sit down with Alexandre Relvas Jr. of Casa Relvas Winery, a family project rooted in five generations of connection to the land. Alexandre shares the story behind Casa Relvas, a winery born in 1997 at Herdade de São Miguel in Alentejo, inspired by a landscape reminiscent of his family’s African heritage.

We explore the journey of Casa Relvas, including:

• Planting the first 10 hectares of vines at Herdade de São Miguel, followed by 25 more hectares the next year.

• The construction of the Herdade de São Miguel winery, with the capacity to vinify 500 tons of grapes.

• Launching their first wine, “Herdade de São Miguel Colheita Seleccionada Tinto 2003,” with an initial production of 26,000 bottles.

• How Nuno Franco (viticulture and oenology consultant) and Fernanda Gomes joined the project to help shape its vision.

• The pivotal role of Alexandre Relvas Jr., who joined after training in viticulture in Bordeaux, contributing to the launch of a wine scoring over 90 points by Robert Parker.

• The acquisition of Herdade da Pimenta, adding 65 hectares of vineyards and a winery capable of transforming 2.5 tons of grapes.

Today, Casa Relvas boasts an impressive portfolio of wines recognised globally for their consistency and quality. With two generations at the helm, the family manages an integrated production system covering:

• 750 hectares of forests

• 250 hectares of olive groves

• 350 hectares of vineyards

Their dedication to regenerative farming and sustainable production continues to shape the Alentejo’s legacy.

Special Mention:
Casa Relvas invites you to experience the best of Alentejo through wine tastings, vineyard tours, and events. Whether you’re celebrating with family or hosting a business meeting, Casa Relvas offers an unforgettable connection to Portugal’s wine culture.

Links:
👉 Visit Casa Relvas to explore their wines and book your visit.
👉 Subscribe to Podcast Portugal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube.

Let us know what you think! Drop a review, leave a comment, or email us your thoughts and ideas.

Cheers to connecting cultures and celebrating Portugal!

EPISODE 2 PEDRO ROCHA

LIFE DECISIONS BY THE OCEAN

Welcome to Podcast Portugal, the show where we explore life in Portugal through inspiring stories, expert insights, and fascinating conversations. In Episode 2, we sit down with Pedro Rocha, a seasoned real estate professional and co-founder of Guthrie Rocha Real Estate, to dive deep into the nuances of relocating, living, and thriving in Portugal.

Pedro shares his journey from Porto to the Algarve West Coast and Mount Maunganui in New Zealand, offering a unique perspective on the challenges and rewards of moving to Portugal. From renting in Portugal to navigating the intricacies of the property market, Pedro provides invaluable advice for anyone considering a new life abroad.

We’ll discuss the vibrant lifestyle of living in Portugal, with a particular focus on Aljezur property in the Western Algarve and what makes the region an ideal destination for surfers, nature lovers, and families alike. Pedro also touches on his experiences with buying a house in Portugal, starting a business, and achieving the perfect life balance.

Beyond real estate, we explore Pedro’s passions for surfing, Jiu Jitsu, and how he finds harmony between his professional, personal and family life. Whether you’re dreaming of a laid-back life in Portugal, investing in Portuguese property, or starting fresh in Portugal, this episode is packed with practical insights and inspiration.

Tune in to hear about Pedro’s adventures, his deep connection to both Portugal and New Zealand, and his tips for making the leap to a new home. Don’t miss it!

Big Shout Out to Guthrie Rocha Properties and “Band of 4” for the Soundtrack

EPISODE 0 WE ARE LIVE PODCAST PORTUGAL

WELCOME TO PODCAST PORTUGAL

A weekly podcast in English about Portugal´s culture, history and daily life with various guests. Living in Portugal, moving to Portugal or visiting Portugal? Podcast Portugal is your essential resource for everything Portugal in English.

We cover various views on local and international news, events, and trends, featuring special guests for in-depth discussions.

We value independent thought and free speech, aiming to create a space for respectful debate. Our goal is to enhance understanding of Portugal’s culture, heritage, and contemporary issues.

Subscribe to Podcast Portugal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify or YouTube Podcasts to connect cultures, inspire discussions, and celebrate Portugal worldwide.

EPISODE 1 PEDRO CARVALHO MMA

PEDRO CARVALHO MIXED MARTIAL ARTIST

Pedro Carvalho was born in Guimarães, in the Braga District of Portugal. From humble beginnings at the age of 12 Pedro decided to become an MMA fighter after seeing the UFC. He began training at the gym of Portuguese MMA pioneer, Rafael Silva.

Prior to signing with Bellator, Carvalho worked in a factory and also did custodial work for a hospital while fighting on the regional circuit in Portugal, working to save enough money to gamble all with a move to Ireland to train alongside Conor McGregor with John Kavanagh at SBG in Ireland.