What do tarpons, bonefish, and a wild jaguar have in common? They’re all part of Michael Peralta’s journey from a high school kid in San Pedro to a respected professional fly fishing guide in Belize.

In this episode, we sit down with Michael — Job’s old classmate — to explore what fly fishing is all about, how he turned a childhood curiosity into a 6-year apprenticeship, and what it's like guiding in some of the most beautiful flats in the Caribbean. He shares his first catch, his proudest moment spotting a jaguar in Belize’s northwestern coast, and the real threats facing the flats fishing industry today.

💬 We also dive into:

Michael’s beginnings & mentors 🛥️

Working at El Pescador Fishing Lodge

Grand slams in Belize 🐟

His role in the Flats Fishing Association

His favorite Belizean dish 🍛

What he’d do as mayor for a day

📍 Whether you're into Belizean culture, sustainable tourism, or just love a good story from the water — this one’s for you.

🔔 Subscribe for more Belizean stories, food, travel & local insights: @tgalbz

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Watch on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tgalbz

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gringa-local-belize/id1709718641

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5i5DS3J1AuuaLPBUxlPhe4?si=5e8b077b2f154dac

Website: https://the-gringa-local-belize.captivate.fm

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NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

The information provided through our podcast and publications is for general informational purposes only. Any actions you take—or choose not to take—based on this content are entirely at your own risk, and we are not liable for any resulting loss or damage.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Gringa and Local Belize Podcast or its affiliates. This content should not be interpreted as financial, economic, legal, tax, or professional advice of any kind.

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared.

Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, THE GRINGA AND LOCAL BELIZE PODCAST 2025.

#FlyFishingBelize #BelizePodcast #SanPedroBelize #Bonefish #Tarpon #TheGringaAndTheLocal #FishingLife #BelizeWildlife #BelizeCulture #belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving

In this inspiring and eye-opening episode, we sit down with Valentine Rosado, a proud Belizean and accomplished marine biologist, to explore his journey, his mission, and the science behind protecting Belize’s precious marine ecosystems.

Valentine shares how he discovered his passion for marine biology and walks us through his educational and professional path—spanning the private sector, government, and nonprofit work. We dive into how these sectors collaborate (and sometimes clash) in the realm of environmental policy, and how real estate development intersects with sustainability.

🪸 From mangrove preservation to the state of our coral reefs, Valentine explains the challenges Belize faces and what real estate agents, developers, and everyday citizens can do to help. He offers expert insight into conservation planning, Belizean environmental laws, and the role of responsible investment in preserving our natural beauty.

🌊 We tackle some tough questions:

– Are we too far gone to reverse environmental damage?

– What are king tides, and how are storms and climate change impacting the Caribbean?

– What’s the difference between Sargasso (good) and Sargassum (bad), and how can communities manage it?

Valentine also gets personal—sharing why San Pedro feels like home, his favorite Belizean dishes, and the one thing he’d change if he were mayor of the island. Plus, he opens up about his nonprofit work focused on mentoring and developing the next generation of Belizean scientists.

This episode is a deep dive into science, community, and the soul of Belize. Whether you're a traveler, expat, local, or nature lover—this one’s for you.

🔔 Subscribe for more conversations that explore the heart of Belize, its people, and its future.

Follow us on:

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Email: TheGringaAndLocal@gmail.com

Website: https://the-gringa-local-belize.captivate.fm

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gringa-local-belize/id1709718641

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5i5DS3J1AuuaLPBUxlPhe4?si=5e8b077b2f154dac

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

The information provided through our podcast and publications is for general informational purposes only. Any actions you take—or choose not to take—based on this content are entirely at your own risk, and we are not liable for any resulting loss or damage.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not...

From Benque to San Pedro: Ivan’s Belizean Success Story

In this episode of The Gringa & The Local, we chat with Ivan Luna — a born-and-raised Belizean from the small border town of Benque Viejo del Carmen. Ivan shares his inspiring journey from humble beginnings to becoming a successful entrepreneur in San Pedro, Ambergris Caye.

You’ll hear about:

• His childhood and how he earned the nickname Ivan the Terrible
• Climbing the hospitality ladder from barback to co-owner of Crocs Sports Bar
• The mindset, work ethic, and lessons that fueled his growth
• Throwback stories from island life
• His passion for community and advice for aspiring Belizean entrepreneurs
• His favorite local spots and what he’d improve about San Pedro if he were mayor

It’s a down-to-earth conversation full of laughs, inspiration, and love for Belize. Tune in for a real-deal story of grit, gratitude, and growth.

🎧 The Gringa & The Local — where Belizean stories come to life.

Follow us on:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thegringaandlocal/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thegringaandlocal

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@tgalbz

TikTok: http://www.tiktok.com/@tglbelize

Email: TheGringaAndLocal@gmail.com

Website: https://the-gringa-local-belize.captivate.fm

Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gringa-local-belize/id1709718641

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5i5DS3J1AuuaLPBUxlPhe4?si=5e8b077b2f154dac

Save our contact info here: https://popl.co/card/xHbOeEih/3/s

NOTICE & ⚠️ DISCLAIMER:

The information provided through our podcast and publications is for general informational purposes only. Any actions you take—or choose not to take—based on this content are entirely at your own risk, and we are not liable for any resulting loss or damage.

The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed by guests are their own and do not necessarily reflect those of The Gringa and Local Belize Podcast or its affiliates. This content should not be interpreted as financial, economic, legal, tax, or professional advice of any kind.

We provide this podcast without warranties or guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness, timeliness, or outcomes of using the information shared.

Please conduct your own research and seek professional guidance when necessary.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED, THE GRINGA AND LOCAL BELIZE PODCAST 2025.

#belizepodcast #podcast #travelpodcast #lifestylepodcast #belize #sanpedrobelize #ambergriscayebelize #visitbelize #belizevacation #culture #belizeliving