How can animated characters teach kids about kindness, inclusion, and climate change? What do a hard-of-hearing whale and a finger-spelling hermit crab have to do with ocean conservation and environmental conservation?

In this episode of The Expat Experience, host Robert DeForge welcomes author and sign language interpreter Marianne Ambrose, whose Acts of Kindness Book Series blends storytelling, deaf advocacy, and real-world issues like bullying, clean oceans, and climate change. Inspired by her experiences sailing in Hawaii and practicing meditation, Marianne’s work features animated characters, puppets, and music to educate children on pressing social issues. Through her focus on education, inclusion, and creativity, she demonstrates how everyday acts of kindness can empower young people and create a lasting global impact.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Intro: Meet Marianne
• (02:15)How guided meditation and ocean pollution near her sailboat in Hawaii inspired Underwater Acts of Kindness
• (06:06) Creating themed books: Rabbit Acts of Kindness, Righteous Acts of Kindness, and Cool Acts of Kindness for Climate Change
• (11:19) Marianne’s mission to spread kindness through storytelling, animation, and deaf advocacy
• (13:30) Tackling bullying, hearing loss, climate change, and clean water through sign language and quirky characters in her animated stories
• (16:30) How listeners can incorporate kindness into their daily lives, and a look ahead at the future of the book series

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• The Acts of Kindness book series uses animation, puppetry, and storytelling to educate readers about environmental and social issues. Marianne’s characters, like Noaah the hard-of-hearing whale and Dr. Fingers the finger-spelling hermit crab, teach children sign language while promoting inclusion, empathy, and ocean conservation.
• Inspired by her time as a sailor and sign language interpreter, Marianne raises awareness of issues like the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, bullying, and hearing loss. Through creativity and compassion, her mission is to make acts of kindness a part of everyday life and inspire a global movement for change.
• Her educational tools—used in Hawaii’s schools and deaf communities—include coloring books, clean water units, and puppets, all supported by grants like one from the Awesome Foundation.

RESOURCES:

Expat Experience - Podcast

Robert DeForge - LinkedIn

DeForge Realty Group - Website

Marianne L. Ambrose - LinkedIn

Underwater Acts of Kindness (Acts of Kindness Book Series)

Rabbit Acts of Kindness - No Bully (Acts of Kindness Book...

Ready to escape to a sun-soaked paradise? Curious about a vibrant expat lifestyle? Would you love to live in a relaxed, welcoming community? Join host Robert DeForge on the Expat Experience as he chats with Tim Walker about thriving in San Carlos, Mexico! Discover a unique blend of desert, mountains, and sea that shapes a relaxed, community-driven lifestyle, from the festive, Mexican-friendly culture rich in celebration, food, and family, to the rapid growth fueling San Carlos’ popularity.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Introduction: Meet Tim Walker
• (01:12) Tim shares his journey from Venezuela to San Carlos
• (03:18) The friendly culture and landscape of San Carlos
• (05:55) The Mexican culture features family-friendly festivities
• (08:29) Tim comments on the population growth of San Carlos and the diverse entertainment options
• (11:40) It is easy to find a short or long-term rental , and Tim talks about how everyday life is a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• San Carlos offers a harmonious blend of desert, mountains, and sea, creating a unique physical and cultural environment that fosters a relaxed, community-oriented lifestyle distinct from more regulated North American settings.
• The Mexican community in San Carlos is characterized by a love for celebration, food, family, and friendship, with frequent festivities showcasing a lively and inclusive atmosphere.
• Rapid construction and population growth reflect San Carlos' increasing popularity. Diverse activities like boating, hiking, and sports, alongside a welcoming expat and local community, make it an attractive destination for relocation.

RESOURCES:

Expat Experience - Podcast

Robert DeForge - LinkedIn

DeForge Realty Group- Website

KEYWORDS: San Carlos, Mexico, Friendly Culture, Relaxed Welcoming Community, Mexico Living, Expat, Relocation, Community, Culture, Fiesta, Construction, Beach, Mountains, Desert, Freedom, Lifestyle, Food, Family, Friendship, Pickleball, Tennis, Economy, Happiness, Robert DeForge, Vive Real Estate, Paradise, desert, mountains, and sea, family-friendly festivities, rental properties, real estate, Move to Mexico, boating, hiking, sports, Traveling, Getaway, Vacation, real estate investing, moving to mexico, living in mexico

Today, real estate expert Robert DeForge explores the vibrant sailing lifestyle in San Carlos, Mexico, with sailors Peggy and Steve Leonard. Peggy and Steve share their sailing journey and what led them to settle in the tight-knit San Carlos Community. From navigating Mexico’s coasts to embracing the community’s charm, this episode dives into affordable living and the joys of expat life in San Carlos, Mexico. Tune in to this episode of the Expat Experience podcast for an inspiring look at sailing and the community in Mexico!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (01:13) Peggy and Steve discuss how they got involved with sailing, and onboard safety
• (11:35) The Leonards share the ports they have sailed to throughout Mexico and activities they’ve enjoyed
• (17:26) What ultimately led Steve and Peggy to purchase a home in San Carlos, Mexico
• (25:00) Peggy and Steve discuss renting their home and transitioning to a permanent residency from the sailing lifestyle
• (31:47) What changes have occurred since they moved to San Carlos

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• San Carlos, Mexico, offers unique opportunities for owning waterfront property in addition to the deep water port, making it a haven for sailing enthusiasts.
• The close-knit San Carlos Community fosters strong bonds through activities like pickleball and sailing. Living in Mexico is more affordable than living in the United States.
• The proximity to the U.S. border supports a sailing lifestyle in San Carlos, Mexico, with easy cross-border access for items unavailable in Mexico.

RESOURCES:

Expat Experience - Podcast

Robert DeForge - LinkedIn

Vive Real Estate - Website

Sailing, San Carlos, Mexico, Expat Life, Community, Waterfront Property, Real Estate, Travel Trailer, Storage Solutions, Pickleball, Community, Moving to Mexico, Affordability, Marina, Beach Activities, Cross-Border Commuting, Sailors, Sailboat Living, Affordable City, Cost of Living, Coastal Adventures, Coastal Exploration

Join real estate expert Robert DeForge as he delves into the allure of relocating to the scenic coastal town of San Carlos, Mexico, with insights from Alex Mendoza, owner of the beloved Colibri restaurant. Alex shares his remarkable life story, from his arrival in the U.S. via a paid coyote to his journey of self-acceptance, deportation, and eventual return to Mexico, where he opened Colibri. In this episode, Alex discusses the inspiration behind Colibri, the unique dining experience he’s crafted through inventive flavor combinations, and his dedication to a fresh, hands-on approach that keeps diners coming back. Alex also offers advice for newcomers to San Carlos and touches on the inclusive spirit of the local LGBTQ community.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Intro
• (00:57) Alex’s journey from Mexico by a paid coyote to arriving in the US
• (03:41) Alex shares his coming out story and his experience of deportation
• (09:58) Arriving in San Carlos and opening and naming Colibri his restaurant
• (19:19) Alex describes the dining experience at Colibri, his signature dishes and the evolving restaurant business in San Carlos
• (27:27) Alex shares advice for people coming to San Carlos and discussion about the inclusion of the LGBTQ community
• (34:40) Alex shares some of the ingredients he combines to surprise his guests and keep them coming back

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Restaurants require hands-on dedication. Keeping your menu fresh and exciting for your return customers is necessary.
• Colibri offers a unique dining experience as Alex masterfully combines unexpected flavors—savory, sweet, salty, and more—in ways that surprise and delight the palate.
• Members of the LGBTQ community are welcome in San Carlos.

RESOURCES:

Expat Experience - Podcast

Robert DeForge - LinkedIn

Alex R. Mendoza - Instagram

Colibri Restaurant on Facebook

Welcome to this episode of The Expat Experience, where real estate professional Robert DeForge explores the realities of buying property in Mexico. Today, he welcomes Luis Alfonso Navarette, an independent attorney specializing in real estate law in San Carlos, Mexico. Luis brings invaluable insight into the legal intricacies of property transactions, from reviewing contracts and verifying ownership to ensuring compliance with Mexican real estate laws. Together, they’ll discuss the challenges foreign buyers face, the misconceptions U.S. and Canadian clients often have, and the essential role of notaries in property transactions. Whether you're considering purchasing property in Mexico or simply curious about the process, this episode is packed with must-know information to help you confidently navigate the market.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:57) Luis introduces himself and talks about his real estate law practice
• (03:51) Reveals the challenges and ethical considerations in purchasing property in Mexico
• (07:03) Discussion of misconceptions clients from the US or Canada may have
• (11:33) Luis shares that buying a property has become much more involved
• (15:51) Luis shares his educational background and what drew him to San Carlos

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Luis Alfonso Navarette is an independent attorney specializing in real estate and property law in San Carlos, Mexico. He reviews contracts, verifies property records, and ensures legal compliance before finalizing transactions.
• The public registry holds the final word on property ownership and liens. While Navarette reviews legal documents and ensures transparency, the notary public—appointed by the state—has the exclusive authority to formalize property transactions in Mexico.
• Buyers from the U.S. and Canada often misunderstand the Mexican property purchasing process, especially the role of notaries and realtors. Ensuring a property has a clear title and no liens are critical, and foreign buyers typically work with attorneys, realtors, a notary public, and a trust company to navigate the process smoothly.

RESOURCES:

Expat Experience - Podcast

Robert DeForge - LinkedIn

Vive Real Estate - Website

Luis Alfonso Navarette - LinkedIn

What if your dream life was just a move away? A vibrant community, stunning landscapes, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere—this is San Carlos, Mexico. In today’s episode of The Expat Experience, real estate professional Robert DeForge sits down with Tammi Miller, fellow agent and owner of VIVE Real Estate, to explore why San Carlos stands out among Mexico’s many gems. Tammi shares her family’s inspiring journey to this picturesque destination, unpacking what makes it irresistible for expats and locals alike. From debunking myths about safety and property ownership to highlighting San Carlos’ unique charm, this conversation is packed with insights. If relocating to Mexico is on your radar, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (1:00) Tammi shares why she chose to make San Carlos her home
• (2:31) Robert shares his relocation to Mexico story
• (6:40) Discussion of the welcoming community
• (9:09) Is it safe to live in Mexico
• (13:48) Can your property be confiscated or taken by the government
• (19:48) The importance of finding a real estate agent AMPI member

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• San Carlos is beautiful and a short four-hour drive to the United States border, making it very appealing for expats and vacationers alike.
• The cost of living in San Carlos is one-third of what it is in the United States, and taxes are approximately $500 a year, depending on your property.
• The residents of San Carlos embrace one another like family. They are warm and eager to lend a helping hand. The atmosphere is filled with community and friendliness, making it impossible to feel like a stranger. Even if you haven't met someone, you'll quickly sense belonging to this close-knit community.

RESOURCES:

Expat Experience - Podcast

Robert DeForge - LinkedIn

Living in Mexico, Mexican Real Estate, Moving to Mexico, San Carlos, Paradise Living, Real Estate, Relocation, Mexico Community, Warmth, Friendliness, Helping Hand, Local Culture, Supportive Environment, Neighborhood, Inclusivity, Rob DeForge, Tammi Miller, VIVE Real Estate

Join seasoned real estate professional and host, Robert DeForge, as he takes you from dreaming to doing, with practical insights and inspiring stories about life in San Carlos. Whether you’re planning your retirement, seeking a work-from-anywhere haven, or envisioning the perfect vacation escape, this podcast is your go-to resource for making the move seamless.

Discover the breathtaking beauty of San Carlos, its vibrant expat community, and the wealth of opportunities awaiting you. From navigating visas and finding a home to understanding healthcare and immersing yourself in the culture, The Expat Experience is your compass to life in paradise.

IN THIS EPISODE:

• (00:00) Welcome to the Expat Experience
• (00:49) Meet Your Host: Rob DeForge
• (01:13) Discovering San Carlos: A Unique Destination
• (01:27) Making the Move: Tips and Insights
• (01:45) Activities and Lifestyle in San Carlos
• (02:25) Community and Support for Expats
• (03:10) Healthcare, Business, and Digital Nomads
• (03:39) Topics to Expect in Future Episodes
• (04:01) Common Questions Answered
• (04:17) Conclusion and Final Thoughts

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Learn how to navigate visas, find housing, and manage costs with ease.
• Discover the social and cultural aspects of San Carlos, from community events to expat organizations.
• Explore activities like kayaking, hiking, kite surfing, and fishing in this one-of-a-kind destination.
• Hear from expats, digital nomads, and local business owners who’ve found success and fulfillment in San Carlos.

RESOURCES:

Expat Experience - Podcast

Robert DeForge - LinkedIn

Vive Real Estate - Website

Living in Mexico, Mexican Real Estate, Moving to Mexico, San Carlos, Paradise Living, Real Estate, Relocation, Mexico Community, Local Culture, Supportive Environment, Neighborhood, Inclusivity, Robert DeForge, Expat Experience