In this episode, the hosts dive into the fascinating world of interior design and custom furniture creation with their special guest, Malahki Thorn. Malahki is an esteemed interior designer and furniture creator who brings a unique blend of American and Mexican design sensibilities to Puerto Vallarta. He shares his journey from Akron, Ohio, to Northern California, and finally to Mexico, where he has built a flourishing business.

Listeners will explore how Malahki sources materials, adapts to Mexico's distinct cultural and environmental landscape, and offers a comprehensive suite of services, including interior design, custom carpentry, construction, and property management. If anyone has ever dreamt of designing the perfect home in Mexico or is curious about navigating the local design and construction market, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

This episode promises to be both informative and inspiring!

Don't miss out on free webinar, where experts cover everything you need to know about relocating to Mexico—from the best places to live to essential healthcare information for expats. Register at dreamretirementinmexico.com/webinar.

Key Moments:

00:00 Interview with designer Malahki Thorn on design.

04:55 Flexible aesthetic blends natural materials, American perspective.

09:10 Affordable custom furniture great for comfort seekers.

16:24 Opportunities in Vallarta expanded design services.

18:24 Patience necessary; rushing fails in Mexican culture.

21:26 Starting business in Mexico requires determination, communication.

About the Guest :

Malahki Thorn, originally hailing from the small city of Akron, Ohio, embarked on a life journey that took him to San Francisco at the age of 24. After spending several years in the bustling city, he settled in Northern California, where he bought a house. However, the region's frequent seasonal wildfires posed a constant threat, bringing him close to evacuation five times in a decade.

At the age of 49, Malahki made a life-changing decision to move to Viarda, a place he had loved and frequently visited on vacation. Now 51 years old, Malahki enjoys his new home in Viarda, where he continues to appreciate the serenity away from the wildfire-prone areas of California and contemplates a peaceful retirement.

How to connect Malahki : https://www.raventhorninteriors.com/

In this episode, host Risa Morimoto sits down with Dr. Gerardo Mangino, a renowned orthopedic surgeon specializing in knee and hip replacements in Cabo, Mexico. Risa shares her positive experiences visiting Cabo, which always feels like a vacation, even when she's working. Dr. Mangino dives into why he loves living and working in this beautiful locale and offers insights into the medical tourism boom in Cabo.

They explore the exceptional hospital facilities, their certifications, and how they cater specifically to international patients. Dr. Mangino highlights the significant cost savings for procedures like joint replacements compared to the U.S., and he provides details on contacting him for telehealth consultations. He also discusses the seamless process for international patients, from initial inquiry to post-surgery recovery, and the advantages of combining medical care with a relaxing vacation in a safe, picturesque environment.

Risa and Dr. Mangino delve into the differences between healthcare systems in Mexico, the U.S., and Canada, emphasizing the personalized care and direct communication that patients can expect in Mexico. Whether you're considering a medical procedure or just curious about retiring in paradise, this episode is packed with valuable insights and firsthand experiences.

Don't miss out on free webinar, where experts cover everything you need to know about relocating to Mexico—from the best places to live to essential healthcare information for expats. Register at dreamretirementinmexico.com/webinar.

Key Moments:

00:10 Medical tourism's rising relevance excites aging populations.

06:12 Private medicine in Mexico: hidden gem.

08:06 U.S. medicine: excellent science, lacks human connection.

13:52 Contact options: telehealth or Zoom for discussions.

17:49 Packages include physiotherapy to aid post-surgery mobility.

21:42 Outpatient surgery in Cabo costs significantly less.

27:37 Cabo: Easy to navigate, growing medical hub.

About the Guest :

Dr. Gerardo Mangino, a distinguished orthopedic surgeon, hails from Mexico City, Mexico. Despite his Italian surname, he spent his formative years in his native city, where he embarked on his medical journey. Dr. Mangino graduated from the prestigious Universidad Anahuac, a renowned private medical school. He further honed his expertise in Orthopaedic Surgery during his residency at the National Center for Rehabilitation (Instituto Nacional de Rehabilitación), one of Mexico's leading orthopedic hospitals. His impressive background testifies to his deep-rooted commitment to the field of medicine.

Website of Dr. Gerardo Mangino : https://www.drmangino.com/

In this episode, host Risa Morimoto is joined by special guest Janet Blaser, a renowned journalist and author who has recently made the move from Mazatlan to Lake Chapala. Tune in as Janet shares the fascinating story behind her relocation, driven by a blend of celestial signs and practical reasons, as well as the challenges she has faced, like missing the ocean and adjusting to a new community vibe.

Discover the compelling details about life in Lake Chapala, from its breathtaking scenery and proximity to Guadalajara, to the unique services and amenities available for expatriates. Janet dives into the realities of living near Mexico's second-largest natural lake, dealing with its contamination issues, and navigating the vibrant yet tranquil rural environment of San Antonio Tlayacapan.

We'll also explore Janet's personal journey, her reflections on leaving Mazatlan, and her future plans, which include spending more time with family and launching an exciting new book series titled "Going Expat." If you're contemplating a move to Mexico or just curious about expat life, this episode is packed with insights and invaluable advice. Plus, don't miss out on Risa's invitation to a free webinar on retiring in Mexico.

So, sit back, relax, and get ready to be inspired by Janet Blaser's incredible experiences and journey on Dream Retirement In Mexico.

Don't miss out on free webinar, where experts cover everything you need to know about relocating to Mexico—from the best places to live to essential healthcare information for expats. Register at dreamretirementinmexico.com/webinar.

Key Moments:

03:47 Vacation led to starting a magazine and market.

07:21 Mazatlan became "Vegas on the beach."

11:43 Foreigners move to beaches, seeking cooler areas.

13:18 Rented Airbnb, then house-sat near friends.

16:17 Friend unexpectedly offers to take over the apartment.

21:14 Older residents, affluent foreigners, different lifestyle services.

24:40 Prioritize family time, spend a month with each.

27:05 Excited to publish anthologies by election.

30:17 Currency fluctuations affect import spending habits.

34:16 Charming small towns hinder hurried travel.

38:17 Embrace chaos; clarity comes with time's wisdom.

39:11 Embracing uncertainty and moving forward in life.

About the Guest:

Janet Blaser is an author, writer, and consultant who has lived in Mexico since 2006. A former journalist in California, her work now focuses on expat living. Janet’s first book, “Why We Left: An Anthology of American Women Expats” is an Amazon bestseller. She’s currently working on a series of “Going Expat Guides” about Mexico, Italy, Portugal, and Costa Rica. Janet is a regular contributor to CNBC’s “Make It” and International Living magazine. Follow her on Instagram and Facebook, @thejanetblaser. A writer by nature, Janet also likes to surf, garden, read, cook, and, at times, rabble-rouse.