From Groundhog Day to Pura Vida: Carlos Castelo’s Leap into a New Life

After two decades driving buses through the streets of Toronto, Carlos Castelo felt life slipping into a monotonous loop — work, bills, exhaustion, repeat. In this candid conversation, Carlos shares how the pandemic, a brush with midlife crisis, and a fearless recon trip to Costa Rica sparked a bold decision: sell it all and start fresh in a new country. From fears and family adjustments to building community and rediscovering joy, Carlos’ story is a blueprint for anyone yearning to break free from “good enough” and embrace a more vibrant life.

• Your comfort zone can be a trap — even a “good” life can keep you from a great one.

• Crisis can be a catalyst — midlife challenges and pandemic pressures can open the door to transformation.

• Fear is the biggest barrier — most people stay stuck not because they can’t change, but because they’re afraid to try.

• Community takes time — building new friendships and networks doesn’t happen overnight, but it’s worth the effort.

• Invest in experiences over possessions — time with loved ones and a fulfilling lifestyle matter more than a bigger paycheck.

• Mindset matters — surrounding yourself with people who think outside the box can change what you believe is possible.

• Leap before you’re “ready” — you may never feel fully prepared, but bold moves can lead to the happiest chapters of your life.