Dive into the laid-back world of southern Ecuador with Jesse and Brandon on the Ecuador Insider Podcast. From exposing fast food horrors—like a McDonald's burger that doesn't rot after seven months—to celebrating the fresh, preservative-free eats that make this Valley of Longevity a health haven, we break down why people here just get healthier. Clean air, fresh produce, and that unbeatable fresh produce glow—it's all about ditching the US "meat grinder" stress for genuine connections, like clean expert medical advice over Zoom.We share stories of Ecuador's chill culture, where life's about mountains, sun, clean air, and amazing local burgers that actually decompose (as they should!). Then things get juicy with tangents on the dark side of fame: selling your soul in Hollywood, Epstein scandals, Trump's cryptic "hoax" tweets, and bizarre celeb rumors from Matt Rife and Ludacris to Sylvester Stallone and Barrack Obama. We cap it off with a heartfelt Hulk Hogan memory, where Brandon chokes up over the legend's passing (yo, brother, put your sunglasses back on... is that Hulkamania running eternal in your tears?) And we dive into intriguing theories like Jesus as the King of Tartaria, questioning if this lost advanced empire was actually Christ's 1000-year millennial reign, hidden by history's mud floods and elite cover-ups. It's a wild ride blending practical expat insights with deep theories and conspiracy-fueled fun. #EcuadorExpat #ValleyOfLongevity #RealFood #HealthHacks #CelebConspiracies #EpsteinScandal #HollywoodDarkSide #TrumpTweets #AbundantLiving #EscapeTheMatrix #RIPLegend #HulkHogan *Welcome to Abundant Living Ecuador!* 🏡Dive deep into the heart of Southern Ecuador with real estate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your dream of living abroad. Whether you're seeking tranquility, nature, or the unique culture, we've got you covered!🤗 Check Out Our Reviews: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9PQCVxqijgwdQk27🌐 Check Out Our New Real Estate Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xexn9u-G47zi5XhbIrzVA🌿 Get to Know Ecuador In One of Our Upcoming Retreats: https://abundantliving.wetravel.com/users/abundant-living-retreats📘 FREE Guide "Relocating to Ecuador": https://www.abecuador.com/relocating-to-ecuador 🏠 Browse Our Property Listings:See what's available in our curated listings: https://www.abecuador.com/properties-for-sale 🔥 Check out our Audio Podcasts:Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8aba64c-28c6-4d02-a1ff-e6e6f54015f5/ecuador-insiders?ref=dm_sh_6C2aESDotlIoxaOZzLBKsbuQeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KJZalvGnehJM7Fvl3Lvbz?si=UkkSvhSUTS6Hzws8K_kC1gApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ecuador-insiders/id1726988592👍 Follow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlivingec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlivingecuador/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abecuador X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AbundantEC📞 Reach Out to Us:Email: info@abecuador.comCall or Text: +593 98 074 8925 (Available on WhatsApp, Telegram, & Signal)Embrace a new adventure with us, as we guide you through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities of Ecuador!

In this lively episode of the Ecuador Insider podcast, hosts Jesse and Brandon bundle up against Vilcabamba's unusually "freezing" 72°F afternoon on July 17th, sharing laughs about acclimating to Ecuador's mild climate while locals don parkas and scarves. They dive into alarming global events, including animals fleeing Yellowstone, widespread flash floods, erupting volcanoes, and earthquakes, drawing parallels to the movie 2012 and speculating on weather manipulation through cloud seeding. The conversation explores conspiracy theories, from the "Jeffrey Epstein hoax" referenced in a cryptic Trump post to societal divides fueled by media and politics. Amid the chaos, they promote their upcoming August 29th Vilcabamba Lifestyle Retreat, a 9-day immersive experience at Hotel Izhcayluma featuring expert panels on relocation, real estate, visas, and community life in Ecuador. Personal anecdotes, like Brandon's harrowing flood rescue story, add depth, while the hosts encourage listeners to reconsider their timelines and embrace a balanced, affordable lifestyle abroad. Tune in for insights, humor, and a call to subscribe from the heart of Ecuador's Valley of Longevity. #Ecuador #Vilcabamba #ExpatLife #Travel #Communityfirst #lostbluezone #forgottenbluezone #sacredvalley #valleyoflongevity #mountmandango #eaglecondorprophecy*Welcome to Abundant Living Ecuador!* 🏡Dive deep into the heart of Southern Ecuador with real estate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your dream of living abroad. Whether you're seeking tranquility, nature, or the unique culture, we've got you covered!🤗 Check Out Our Reviews: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9PQCVxqijgwdQk27🌐 Check Out Our New Real Estate Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xexn9u-G47zi5XhbIrzVA🌿 Get to Know Ecuador In One of Our Upcoming Retreats: https://abundantliving.wetravel.com/users/abundant-living-retreats📘 FREE Guide "Relocating to Ecuador": https://www.abecuador.com/relocating-to-ecuador 🏠 Browse Our Property Listings:See what's available in our curated listings: https://www.abecuador.com/properties-for-sale 🔥 Check out our Audio Podcasts:Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8aba64c-28c6-4d02-a1ff-e6e6f54015f5/ecuador-insiders?ref=dm_sh_6C2aESDotlIoxaOZzLBKsbuQeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KJZalvGnehJM7Fvl3Lvbz?si=UkkSvhSUTS6Hzws8K_kC1gApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ecuador-insiders/id1726988592👍 Follow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlivingec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlivingecuador/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abecuador X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AbundantEC📞 Reach Out to Us:Email: info@abecuador.comCall or Text: +593 98 074 8925 (Available on WhatsApp, Telegram, & Signal)

Embrace a new adventure with us, as we guide you through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities of Ecuador!

In this eye-opening episode of the Ecuador Insider Podcast, hosts Jesse and Brandon deliver a raw, unfiltered exploration of life in Vilcabamba, Ecuador, empowering expats and seekers to break free from the soul-crushing matrix of inflation, pollution, chemicals, and relentless consumerism. Discover the profound joy of alternative lifestyles, where human connections trump rigid rules, cheaper costs of living fuel abundance, and vibrant communities foster personal accountability over "keeping up with the Joneses." From volcanic wonders and weather mysteries to ditching fast-paced chaos for heartfelt traditions, this edgy dialogue ignites hope for a resilient, meaningful existence abroad. Dive into Ecuadorian culture's flexible, heart-centered reality and learn about their upcoming retreat—your gateway to transformation. #EcuadorExpats #VilcabambaLifestyle #EscapeTheMatrix #HealthyLivingEcuador #AlternativeLifeAbroad #Ecuador #Vilcabamba #ExpatLife #EcuadorTravel #AlternativeLifestyle #LivingInEcuador*Welcome to Abundant Living Ecuador!* 🏡Dive deep into the heart of Southern Ecuador with real estate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your dream of living abroad. Whether you're seeking tranquility, nature, or the unique culture, we've got you covered!🤗 Check Out Our Reviews: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9PQCVxqijgwdQk27🌐 Check Out Our New Real Estate Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xexn9u-G47zi5XhbIrzVA🌿 Get to Know Ecuador In One of Our Upcoming Retreats: https://abundantliving.wetravel.com/users/abundant-living-retreats📘 FREE Guide "Relocating to Ecuador": https://www.abecuador.com/relocating-to-ecuador 🏠 Browse Our Property Listings:See what's available in our curated listings: https://www.abecuador.com/properties-for-sale 🔥 Check out our Audio Podcasts:Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8aba64c-28c6-4d02-a1ff-e6e6f54015f5/ecuador-insiders?ref=dm_sh_6C2aESDotlIoxaOZzLBKsbuQeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KJZalvGnehJM7Fvl3Lvbz?si=UkkSvhSUTS6Hzws8K_kC1gApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ecuador-insiders/id1726988592👍 Follow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlivingec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlivingecuador/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abecuador X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AbundantEC📞 Reach Out to Us:Email: info@abecuador.comCall or Text: +593 98 074 8925 (Available on WhatsApp, Telegram, & Signal)Embrace a new adventure with us, as we guide you through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities of Ecuador!

Welcome to the Ecuador Insider Podcast with Jesse and Brandon! In this episode, we dive into life in Ecuador, from the unexpectedly chilly mornings in Vilcabamba to the transformative lifestyle that’s drawing people to this South American gem. Join us for a candid, humorous, and thought-provoking conversation that blends personal anecdotes, socio-political insights, and a call to escape the "hamster wheel" of modern life.Chilly Days in Paradise: We kick things off joking about the “freezing” 75°F weather and how four years in Ecuador have turned us into cold-weather wusses. It’s a lighthearted look at adapting to a new climate and culture.Vilcabamba Lifestyle Retreat: Discover our 9-day retreat starting August 29th (only 2-3 spots left!). Whether you’re dreaming of relocating or just want an adventure, we’ll fast-track your knowledge on visas, healthcare, and community living in Ecuador’s serene landscapes.Ecuador’s Security Shift: We unpack Ecuador’s new Bukele-inspired security measures, including tougher sentences and trying minors as adults, as the country tackles rising crime. Plus, a dive into past corruption scandals, like the 2016 earthquake fund misuse tied to former VP Jorge Glas.Crime, Corruption, and Incentives: From lax Correa-era policies to the lure of organized crime’s cash rewards, we explore why Ecuador’s battling gangs and how harsher laws aim to change the game—while wrestling with the ethics of punishing young offenders.Ecuador vs. the U.S.: Reflecting on life’s contrasts, we compare Ecuador’s peaceful, nature-connected vibe to the U.S.’s stressors—think mass shootings, pollution, and the rat race. It’s a deep dive into why Ecuador fosters hope, faith, and personal growth.Philosophical Reflections: We get introspective, exploring how readiness shapes your reality (Ecuador opens up to where you’re at!), the karmic cycles behind life’s events, and why ego often blocks truth. It’s a call to break free from the “Matrix” mindset.Why Watch? This episode is more than a podcast—it’s an invitation to rethink your lifestyle, question societal norms, and explore Ecuador’s magic. Whether you’re curious about moving abroad, seeking spiritual growth, or just love a good convo, there’s something here for you.#EcuadorInsider #VilcabambaRetreat #EcuadorLife #LifestyleChange #TravelPodcast #SecurityReforms #SpiritualGrowth #EscapeTheRatRace*Welcome to Abundant Living Ecuador!* 🏡Dive deep into the heart of Southern Ecuador with real estate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your dream of living abroad. Whether you're seeking tranquility, nature, or the unique culture, we've got you covered!🤗 Check Out Our Reviews: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9PQCVxqijgwdQk27🌐 Check Out Our New Real Estate Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xexn9u-G47zi5XhbIrzVA🌿 Get to Know Ecuador In One of Our Upcoming Retreats: https://abundantliving.wetravel.com/users/abundant-living-retreats📘 FREE Guide "Relocating to Ecuador": https://www.abecuador.com/relocating-to-ecuador 🏠 Browse Our Property Listings:See what's available in our curated listings: https://www.abecuador.com/properties-for-sale 🔥 Check out our Audio Podcasts:Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8aba64c-28c6-4d02-a1ff-e6e6f54015f5/ecuador-insiders?ref=dm_sh_6C2aESDotlIoxaOZzLBKsbuQeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KJZalvGnehJM7Fvl3Lvbz?si=UkkSvhSUTS6Hzws8K_kC1gApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ecuador-insiders/id1726988592👍 Follow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlivingec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlivingecuador/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abecuador X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AbundantEC📞 Reach Out to Us:Email: info@abecuador.comCall or Text: +593 98 074 8925 (Available on WhatsApp, Telegram, & Signal)Embrace a new adventure with us, as we guide you through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities of Ecuador!

*In this episode:*Dare to step beyond the predictable Western grind? In this gripping 2 and a half hour podcast from Vilcabamba, Ecuador, hosts Jesse and Brandon lay bare a stark truth: Ecuador’s untamed lifestyle isn’t for most. Discover why this vibrant, human-centric haven—where relationships trump bureaucracy and nature fuels the soul—demands fearless adaptability. Tailored for visionary expats and Ecuadorians curious about "gringo immersion", this episode explores the cultural depths and raw authenticity of Vilcabamba, challenging you to confront the unknown and thrive. Curious why Ecuador might reject the ordinary? Watch to find out if you’re the exception.#EcuadorExpat #VilcabambaLife #AuthenticLiving #CulturalImmersion #FearlessLiving #GlobalNomad #ExpatAdventure #EcuadorLifestyle #Ecuador #Vilcabamba *Welcome to Abundant Living Ecuador!* 🏡Dive deep into the heart of Southern Ecuador with real estate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your dream of living abroad. Whether you're seeking tranquility, nature, or the unique culture, we've got you covered!🤗 Check Out Our Reviews: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9PQCVxqijgwdQk27🌐 Check Out Our New Real Estate Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xexn9u-G47zi5XhbIrzVA🌿 Get to Know Ecuador In One of Our Upcoming Retreats: https://abundantliving.wetravel.com/users/abundant-living-retreats👍 Follow Us: www.abecuador.comFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlivingec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlivingecuador/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abecuador X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AbundantEC📞 Reach Out to Us:Email: info@abecuador.comCall or Text: +593 98 074 892500:00:00 "Welcome back, welcome back, welcome back!"00:01:35 "Vilcabamba, Ecuador: a call to those seeking an authentic life."00:03:20 "Ecuador’s allure is probably not for you - just the likely truth"00:05:00 "Western safety nets clash with Ecuador’s raw, untamed freedom."00:07:09 "Life here is human to human—no rules, just real connections."00:10:27 "Slow living in Vilcabamba: nature and community draw you in."00:13:04 "Fear of Ecuador’s unknown—culture, systems—tests your resolve."00:17:16 "Kindness defines Ecuador, but flexibility is key to belonging."00:23:02 "Homesteading in Vilcabamba is tough without gritty experience."00:28:45 "No oversight here—freedom excites some, scares others stiff."00:34:30 "Vilcabamba’s tight community demands effort to earn trust."00:40:15 "Failure looms large, yet it fuels personal growth in Ecuador."00:46:00 "Nature’s raw power in Ecuador humbles and reshapes you daily."00:52:30 "Resilience grows from facing Ecuador’s wild unpredictability."00:59:00 "Drop Western norms to find authenticity in Vilcabamba’s pulse."01:05:45 "Vilcabamba’s reality: not paradise, but a truer way to live."01:12:20 "Cultural immersion here takes guts and an open, willing heart."01:19:00 "Relationships, not systems, are Ecuador’s lifeblood and wealth."01:25:30 "Fear fades in Vilcabamba as you uncover your deepest self."01:32:00 "Slow pace forces you to face shadows you’ve long ignored."01:38:45 "Ecuador’s chaos builds antifragility—stronger with each test."01:45:20 "I’m not a spiritual guru, just sharing my journey and lessons."01:52:00 "I’d rather be cringe in others’ mind than caged in my own ."01:58:30 "Community here is earned through humility and persistence."02:05:45 "Trying to Fail’ to break free from perfection’s grip with Willem Dafoe."02:12:10 "Vilcabamba demands you confront fears to live fully free."02:18:56 "Cultural richness in Ecuador rewards the humble and curious."02:24:30 "Nature and people here strip away pretense, reveal truth."02:29:00 "Ecuador isn’t escape—it’s a reckoning with your core self."02:32:00 "Vilcabamba’s gift: a life raw, real, and fiercely your own."02:34:54 "Ecuador dares you to adapt, connect, and rise transformed."

*In this episode:*Jesse and Brandon take you on a transformative journey from the chaos of modern life to the serene, affordable paradise of Vilcabamba, Ecuador. Discover how rent as low as $200 a month and doctor’s visits for just $40 can become your reality, surrounded by a vibrant, supportive community that feels like home. But it’s more than just saving money—it’s about reclaiming your sanity. Through raw personal stories, like military experiences that shattered illusions, and bold critiques of politics and media, they expose the lies that keep us trapped in the rat race. From dismantling the left-right political divide to highlighting how technology and social media empower people to challenge scripted narratives, this episode unveils the unfiltered truth. Whether you’re dreaming of a simpler, freer life or seeking to decode the forces shaping our world, this is your wake-up call. Join Jesse and Brandon as they bridge cultural divides, unravel the matrix, and reveal why Vilcabamba is the hidden gem for their families.#MediaLiesExposed #PoliticalAwakening #ReclaimYourReality #EscapeToEcuador #VilcabambaLife #AffordableLiving #ExpatCommunity #BreakFree #UnfilteredTruth #WakeUpCall #DigitalNomadLife #QuestionEverything #CommunitySpirit #LifeBeyondTheMatrix#TruthSeeker *Welcome to Abundant Living Ecuador!* 🏡Dive deep into the heart of Southern Ecuador with real estate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your dream of living abroad. Whether you're seeking tranquility, nature, or the unique culture, we've got you covered!🤗 Check Out Our Reviews: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9PQCVxqijgwdQk27🌐 Check Out Our New Real Estate Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xexn9u-G47zi5XhbIrzVA🌿 Get to Know Ecuador In One of Our Upcoming Retreats: https://abundantliving.wetravel.com/users/abundant-living-retreats📘 FREE Guide "Relocating to Ecuador": https://www.abecuador.com/relocating-to-ecuador 🏠 Browse Our Property Listings:See what's available in our curated listings: https://www.abecuador.com/properties-for-sale 👍 Follow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlivingec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlivingecuador/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abecuador X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AbundantEC📞 Reach Out to Us:Email: info@abecuador.comCall or Text: +593 98 074 8925 (Available on WhatsApp, Telegram, & Signal)Embrace a new adventure with us, as we guide you through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities of Ecuador!00:00:00 Welcome Back00:01:09 We love your real chats and laughs in the comments00:03:30 Come hang with us in Vilcabamba for a retreat adventure00:05:00 Jesse nearly drove into a pit—classic Ecuador chaos00:06:00 Rent here runs $200 to $1,200, mostly $400 to $80000:07:00 Veggies like kale are 50 cents—fresh and crazy cheap00:08:00 Doctor visits cost $30-$40 and feel like a real talk00:09:00 Local clothes are a steal, imports hit the wallet harder00:10:00 Class vibes here are real, foreigners bridge the gap00:13:00 Our retreat hooks you up with answers and new pals00:14:00 Ditch the US grind for Ecuador’s chill pace00:15:00 Digging into who’s really spinning the big stories00:18:00 Social media shakes up the old media game00:19:00 AI’s making truth a wild guessing game now00:20:00 Watergate’s fake-out still blows our minds00:21:00 September 11th flipped our world upside down00:22:00 From our fam to yours 00:30:00 Politics and media twists keep us wondering00:40:00 Tucker grilling Ted Cruz was a popcorn moment00:45:00 Tech’s rewriting how we hear the world’s noise00:50:00 Sifting through digital lies is our new normal01:00:00 Life’s wake-up calls hit us in funny ways01:10:00 Ecuador’s quirks and culture keep us hooked01:20:00 Retreat scoop: expect real talk and good vibes01:53:21 Wrapping up from Vilcabamba with open arms

*Attend the next Vilcabamba Lifestyle Retreat-BOOK HERE:* https://www.wetravel.com/trips/august-2025-vilcabamba-lifestyle-retreat-abundant-living-retreats-41552325*Check out Mama Silvia's here:* https://maps.app.goo.gl/7SFpyk2shfcg7ukU9*In this episode:*Franco Magrini’s life is a tapestry of global adventures—from his roots in Argentina and Florence to the vibrant streets of New York, the sunny shores of Sarasota, Florida, and the untamed wilderness of Alaska, before finding his true calling in Vilcabamba, Ecuador. In this heartfelt interview, Franco reveals how Alaska’s raw, rugged beauty and tight-knit community transformed him, shifting his worldview from a fast-paced, party-driven life to one grounded in simplicity and resilience. It was in Vilcabamba, however, where he truly settled, opening Mamma Silvia, an Italian restaurant that blends his Florentine heritage with Ecuadorian warmth. Franco shares how the tight-knit Vilcabamba community embraced him and his late mother, offering a sense of belonging he’d long sought. Reflecting on a life of travel, challenges, and growth, he now gives back by mentoring local youth and building a legacy of gratitude. For anyone dreaming of a simpler, more connected life, Franco’s journey—from Alaska’s harsh winters to Ecuador’s tranquil valleys—offers inspiration. Curious about relocating to Ecuador? Come explore Vilcabamba and see why it’s home for Franco and so many others.#ExpatLife #EcuadorLiving #Vilcabamba #italianfood #LifeJourney #PersonalGrowth #CommunityLiving #MammaSilvia #Authenticliving #Alaska #Bhuddist #Relocation #SustainableLiving #FamilyFirst*Welcome to Abundant Living Ecuador!* 🏡Dive deep into the heart of Southern Ecuador with real estate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your dream of living abroad. Whether you're seeking tranquility, nature, or the unique culture, we've got you covered!🤗 Check Out Our Reviews: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9PQCVxqijgwdQk27🌐 Check Out Our New Real Estate Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xexn9u-G47zi5XhbIrzVA🌿 Get to Know Ecuador In One of Our Upcoming Retreats: https://abundantliving.wetravel.com/users/abundant-living-retreats📘 FREE Guide "Relocating to Ecuador": https://www.abecuador.com/relocating-to-ecuador 🏠 Browse Our Property Listings:See what's available in our curated listings: https://www.abecuador.com/properties-for-sale 🔥 Check out our Audio Podcasts:Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8aba64c-28c6-4d02-a1ff-e6e6f54015f5/ecuador-insiders?ref=dm_sh_6C2aESDotlIoxaOZzLBKsbuQeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KJZalvGnehJM7Fvl3Lvbz?si=UkkSvhSUTS6Hzws8K_kC1gApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ecuador-insiders/id1726988592👍 Follow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlivingec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlivingecuador/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abecuador X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AbundantEC📞 Reach Out to Us:Email: info@abecuador.comCall or Text: +593 98 074 8925 (Available on WhatsApp, Telegram, & Signal)Embrace a new adventure with us, as we guide you through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities of Ecuador!00:00:00 Franco gets real: life's better without drama, just enjoy it00:00:53 Meet Franco Magrini, Mamma Silvia's chef with a wild past00:02:00 Not just Italian, Franco's a proud Florentine soul00:04:00 Gut vibes led him out of Italy as change loomed00:07:03 Young Franco: strapping Italian, party king, and model00:10:18 Alaska stole his heart: finally felt like home00:11:00 From veggie to Alaskan Buddhist redneck, what a shift00:12:52 Mother nature in Alaska: in your face, no kidding00:14:08 Buddhist meditations keeps him grounded, 37 years strong00:19:00 Neighbor fixes furnace: we help, but we're not pals00:52:02 Drama-free life: Franco’s secret to sleeping easy

*Attend the next Vilcabamba Lifestyle Retreat-BOOK HERE:* https://www.wetravel.com/trips/august-2025-vilcabamba-lifestyle-retreat-abundant-living-retreats-41552325*In this episode:*In this episode of the Ecuador Insider Podcast, Jesse and Brandon explore Ecuador’s safety landscape, sharing insights on the government’s military response to cartel violence and their personal experiences feeling secure in Vilcabamba. They discuss the benefits of life in southern Ecuador, including the tight-knit community and affordability that have shaped their time as expats. The hosts also weave in lighthearted moments alongside deeper reflections, such as Jesse’s thoughts on his family’s sense of safety after a year in the region. Brandon weighs the risks against the rewards of a simpler, more connected lifestyle. This episode offers a candid mix of serious safety discussions, personal stories, and humor, providing a real look at expat life in Ecuador for anyone considering the move.#EcuadorInsiderPodcast #VilcabambaEcuador #ExpatLife #EcuadorSafety #SustainableLiving #RelocateToEcuador #EcuadorExpats #CommunityLiving #SlowLiving #RealExpatStories*Welcome to Abundant Living Ecuador!* 🏡Dive deep into the heart of Southern Ecuador with real estate professionals dedicated to helping you realize your dream of living abroad. Whether you're seeking tranquility, nature, or the unique culture, we've got you covered!🤗 Check Out Our Reviews: https://maps.app.goo.gl/n9PQCVxqijgwdQk27🌐 Check Out Our New Real Estate Channel:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7xexn9u-G47zi5XhbIrzVA🌿 Get to Know Ecuador In One of Our Upcoming Retreats: https://abundantliving.wetravel.com/users/abundant-living-retreats📘 FREE Guide "Relocating to Ecuador": https://www.abecuador.com/relocating-to-ecuador 🏠 Browse Our Property Listings:See what's available in our curated listings: https://www.abecuador.com/properties-for-sale 🔥 Check out our Audio Podcasts:Amazon Music https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/a8aba64c-28c6-4d02-a1ff-e6e6f54015f5/ecuador-insiders?ref=dm_sh_6C2aESDotlIoxaOZzLBKsbuQeSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2KJZalvGnehJM7Fvl3Lvbz?si=UkkSvhSUTS6Hzws8K_kC1gApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ecuador-insiders/id1726988592👍 Follow Us:Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/abundantlivingec Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/abundantlivingecuador/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@abecuador X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/AbundantEC📞 Reach Out to Us:Email: info@abecuador.comCall or Text: +593 98 074 8925 (Available on WhatsApp, Telegram, & Signal)Embrace a new adventure with us, as we guide you through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant communities of Ecuador!00:00:00 hello and welcome back to the Ecuador Insider podcast00:02:00 Izhcayluma eco resort’s stress-free zone sign sets the perfect vibe00:05:00 Ecuador was incredibly safe under Correa’s presidency00:17:00 this region offers a slower more meaningful lifestyle00:22:15 safety in Ecuador has shifted but Vilcabamba stays peaceful00:25:00 the military’s response to cartels could be a turning point00:30:00 Jesse feels his family is secure after a year here00:35:00 Brandon weighs the risks of expat life against its rewards00:40:00 the community here is like a big supportive family00:44:30 the retreat lets you experience Vilcabamba’s magic firsthand00:48:00 Jesse’s iguana-dodging tale cracks up the hosts00:57:00 the community’s response to a power outage shows its strength01:02:00 Jesse feels safer here than in many US cities01:07:00 the iguana story resurfaces with even more laughs01:15:00 community resilience shines again in the outage story01:20:00 Jesse reiterates Vilcabamba’s safety edge over the US01:25:00 Brandon reflects on the trade-offs of expat life01:30:00 Jesse reflects on how Ecuador’s pace changed his outlook01:35:00 Brandon shares his vision for a thriving expat community