Join us from Cheryl Henderson's Penthouse in Punta Cana, where we unlock the secrets of living, thriving and doing business in this Caribbean paradise. Our podcast is your compass, catering to expatriates, travelers and entrepreneurs alike, offering a blend of insider tips and in-depth insights.
We will do more than just scratch the surface. Our mission is to inspire you by providing valuable content that transcends ordinary blogs. With the wisdom of those who have called Punta Cana home for over two decades, we offer a rich tapestry of first-hand experiences and expert advice.
Each week, we bring you an array of special guests, from successful business owners who've made their mark in Punta Cana to individuals who have chosen to embrace the extraordinary lifestyle this destination has to offer. Together, we explore pristine beaches, the vibrant expat community and thriving business opportunities.
See you in Punta Cana!
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In this inspiring episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we explore what it’s really like moving to Punta Cana to start a new life of peace, purpose, and balance. Our guest, Varun Kashyap, shares his remarkable journey from India’s fast-paced banking world to the calm and clarity of the Dominican Republic — where he found not just a new home, but a new way of living. Varun opens up about how discovering Vastu Shastra, the ancient Indian science of space and energy, helped him align his surroundings with his spiritual and emotional well-being. He explains how moving to Punta Cana gave him the space to reset, reflect, and rediscover the meaning of harmony — both within himself and his environment. From leaving behind corporate stress to embracing a slower, more mindful Caribbean lifestyle, Varun’s story is a powerful reminder that moving to Punta Cana can be more than a relocation — it can be a transformation. 🌴 In this episode, you’ll learn: Why people are moving to Punta Cana for peace, wellness, and a better quality of life How Vastu Shastra can bring harmony and balance to your home abroad What daily life in Punta Cana is really like for expats and new residents The mindset shifts needed to start over in a new country Varun’s personal lessons on energy, balance, and self-discovery
Discover Real Veterans’ Healing Stories in Paradise 🇩🇴 | Veterans Moving to Punta Cana In this inspiring episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we explore why so many U.S. veterans are moving to Punta Cana to start a new chapter of wellness, peace, and purpose. Our guest, Noreen McKnight from Veterans Care International (VCI), shares her incredible story of transformation — leaving behind Chicago and a career in corporate America, higher education, and municipal services to follow her true calling: helping veterans heal through holistic and medical care in the Dominican Republic. Noreen talks about how Veterans Moving to Punta Cana are finding renewed hope through the Veterans Care International wellness retreats — programs that combine medical care, mental health support, and community connection in the heart of the Caribbean. From acupuncture and alternative medicine to building a veterans community in paradise, she reveals what makes veterans care in Punta Cana so unique and life-changing. If you’ve ever dreamed of starting fresh, living abroad, or helping others heal, this story will inspire you to take that next step.
Want to grow your business and attract high-paying clients in 2025? In this video, we share entrepreneur success strategies that show you exactly how to position your business to attract high-paying clients in 2025. These proven strategies help you stand out in a crowded market, sell premium offers with confidence, and create a sustainable business that builds wealth while giving you freedom and impact. You’ll learn how to make your brand irresistible to your ideal clients, attract high-ticket opportunities naturally, and scale your business with clarity and purpose. This video is perfect for ambitious entrepreneurs who want to elevate their business, serve premium clients, and design a lifestyle they love.
Punta Cana Beauty & Wellness | Energy Healing, Self-Awareness, and Inner Transformation! Discover the ultimate beauty and wellness experience in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Since 2011, Tatiana Stukalova, also known as TatiCosmos, has been helping people connect with their energies, awaken self-awareness, and transform both their inner and outer beauty. With over 20 years in the beauty industry, starting as a makeup artist in Russia and building her own successful business, Tatiana now runs Taticosmosclub, one of the top beauty and wellness salons on the island, where she has worked with celebrities, including Vin Diesel.
In this video, explore how energy healing, holistic wellness, and self-awareness practices can help you manage your energies, boost confidence, and transform your life. Learn how beauty and inner strength are intertwined, and why connecting with your soul can unlock harmony, personal growth, and fulfillment. Tatiana also shares insights from the ancient Indian game Lila, guiding people to awaken, gain self-awareness, and deepen their connection with themselves.
Veteran Healthcare 2025 | How Specialized Medical Care is Changing Lives in Punta Cana , Can veterans really get better healthcare abroad? In this insightful episode, we meet a dedicated international doctor working at Veterans Care International in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic where personalized care is transforming the lives of U.S. Veterans.
From Air Force to Author | You Won’t Believe Her Story! In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we explore the incredible journey of a U.S. veteran who transformed her life after serving in the Air Force. From facing personal loss and the challenges of military service to becoming a published author, DJ, music producer, and creative force, her story is nothing short of inspiring. While visiting Punta Cana Dominican Republic for rest and reflection, she shares how faith, resilience, and creativity helped her turn pain into purpose. This episode is packed with lessons about overcoming setbacks, finding your voice, and reigniting your passions.
Can Creativity Transforms Spaces? A Journey of Inspiration explores the incredible story of Ralph Solano, an artist in constant process from the Dominican Republic. Born in Jarabacoa and now thriving in Punta Cana, Ralph has dedicated his life to art, design, and sustainable spaces. From childhood drawings to painting, decoration, his journey shows how creativity can reshape spaces, inspire innovation, and bring harmony to public a
Parenting and Building Community | How Can Families Thrive Abroad? In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we sit down with Yineidy mom, educator, entrepreneur, and founder of Bright. Three years ago, she and her family made the life-changing move from New York/New Jersey to the Dominican Republic, settling in Punta Cana with their newborn daughter. We talk about her journey of moving abroad, adjusting to Punta Cana living, and what inspired her to create Bright—a unique play and learning space where children can thrive and parents can connect. Bright reflects her passion for education, family life, and building community abroad.
Turning Stories Into Tattoos | Emotional Ink in Punta Cana. In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we feature tattoo artist Vera Landolfi, whose unique approach to tattooing transforms personal stories into emotional art. Drawing on a rich background in visual communication design, drawing, photography, sculpture, web design, and art direction, Vera creates tattoos that clients not only love but deeply identify with. Her mission: to spread joy, healing, and self-expression through every piece of ink. ✨ Living and creating in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, Vera shares how life in the Caribbean influences her artistry and how tattoos become more than body art they become emotional armor and personal storytelling.
How to Turn Your Beauty Career into a Caribbean Business Success?Nicolle Gaalas went from owning five hair extension salons in the U.S. to launching a beauty and wellness brand in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we feature Nicolle’s inspiring journey of moving abroad, embracing the expat lifestyle, and building a successful business in Punta Cana. Originally from Pennsylvania and California, Nicolle is a licensed cosmetologist, educator, and wellness enthusiast. Since relocating to the Dominican Republic in 2021, she has not only adjusted to life in paradise but also created a premium hair and skin product line now selling on Amazon.
From Combat to Clarity: A Powerful Veteran Story of Healing and Purpose In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we feature the powerful veteran story of Keenan Moreland, who completed seven combat tours between the U.S. Marine Corps and Army. From enlisting at 18 to retiring as a sergeant at 35, Keenan opens up about life on the front lines, the emotional aftermath of service, and how Veterans Care International (VCI) helped him rediscover peace and purpose.
Meet Bert van Kol, with decades of experience in the cigar world, Bert van Kol is the co-founder of Vivaldi Cigars and a pioneer in Dominican cigar culture. After launching the brand during the Dominican cigar boom of the 1990s, he settled in Punta Cana where he continues to educate and inspire cigar lovers with hands-on tips, personal stories, and masterclasses—right from his beachfront store. Step into the rich cigar culture of Punta Cana in this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast. We explore the legacy of Vivaldi Cigars, a hidden gem located right on the beach, where cigar lovers from around the world come to learn, taste, and elevate their smoking experience.
Beyond the Gym: How Holistic Fitness Transforms Mind and Body
In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we dive into the world of holistic fitness with a seasoned expert who brings over 25 years of experience in the health and wellness industry. From working with elite athletes in the NBA, FIFA, and Formula 1 to supporting artists in the worlds of music, fashion, and film, our guest has developed a transformative approach that goes far beyond traditional workouts.
Beyond the Court: How Tennis Shapes Caribbean Values
In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we explore the inspiring journey of a Dominican athlete whose life has been shaped by tennis, discipline, and deep cultural roots. Our guest, Félix de los Santos, is a seasoned tennis coach and former multi-sport athlete with over 40 years of experience in the world of competitive sports.
Ditching 9-5: Running business from Paradise
In this empowering episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we're joined by Cindy Van Dyck, a Belgian-born business coach and digital strategist who’s redefining what it means to build a business that supports your lifestyle. As the founder of The Unfaced Strategy, Cindy has helped over 400 entrepreneurs grow sustainable online businesses rooted in freedom—not burnout. With over a decade of experience in social media, sales, and coaching, she’s created a go-to academy for digital marketers ready to stop surviving and start scaling.
From Canada to Punta Cana: Building Family Business in Paradise
In this inspiring episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we talk with a Canadian expat who has called the Dominican Republic home since 1994. What started as a humble role in the hotel industry has grown into a thriving family-run business in Punta Cana, known for its heart, service, and dedication to every customer.
Now the manager of Chez Nicole, a charming local gift shop shared with her sister and mother, she shares what it takes to build a successful family business in the Dominican Republic, the importance of hospitality, and how speaking multiple languages helps connect with tourists from all over the world.
From Canada to Punta Cana: Building Family Business in Paradise
In this inspiring episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we talk with a Canadian expat who has called the Dominican Republic home since 1994. What started as a humble role in the hotel industry has grown into a thriving family-run business in Punta Cana, known for its heart, service, and dedication to every customer.
Now the manager of Chez Nicole, a charming local gift shop shared with her sister and mother, she shares what it takes to build a successful family business in the Dominican Republic, the importance of hospitality, and how speaking multiple languages helps connect with tourists from all over the world.
From Canada to Punta Cana: Building Family Business in Paradise
In this inspiring episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we talk with a Canadian expat who has called the Dominican Republic home since 1994. What started as a humble role in the hotel industry has grown into a thriving family-run business in Punta Cana, known for its heart, service, and dedication to every customer.
Now the manager of Chez Nicole, a charming local gift shop shared with her sister and mother, she shares what it takes to build a successful family business in the Dominican Republic, the importance of hospitality, and how speaking multiple languages helps connect with tourists from all over the world.
Love, Faith & Scooters: Business on wheels in Punta Cana In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, meet Tiffany Paulino — a proud Dominican-American, occupational therapist, and faith-driven entrepreneur. Born and raised in New York City, Tiffany shares her inspiring story of leaving the U.S. behind to build a new life in the Dominican Republic with her husband and daughter. Tiffany opens up about the values that guide her — faith, family, and purpose — and how they’ve shaped her journey as a mom, business owner, and woman of faith living in Vistacana. She also talks about launching Brisa Ride, their electric scooter rental business in Punta Cana, and how they’re creating fun, eco-friendly experiences for locals and tourists alike.
From Wisconsin to Punta Cana: Amanda Mercedes’ Mission to Rescue Animals in the Dominican Republic
In this inspiring episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we sit down with Amanda Mercedes—a dedicated animal rescuer who turned her passion into purpose after relocating from a small town near Green Bay, Wisconsin, to the tropical paradise of Punta Cana.
Amanda shares her journey from first visiting Punta Cana in 2016 to making it her permanent home in 2019, all while raising her young son and discovering a calling in animal rescue. Learn how adopting a dog from DCDR led her to connect with Rescatame, a local rescue organization, and how she’s helped transform the landscape of animal welfare in the area.
Through strategic partnerships with organizations like DDR and Salud Pública, Amanda and her team now run monthly spay/neuter clinics, vaccination drives, and essential community outreach programs aimed at reducing the number of stray animals across Punta Cana and beyond.
Whether you're an animal lover, an expat dreaming of life in the Dominican Republic, or just curious about grassroots impact, this episode offers a heartwarming and hopeful look at how one person can make a real difference.
From guest to manager: Hotel industry insights Industry insights take center stage in this episode of The Punta Cana Podcast. Join us as we talk with Alberto Dugarte, who shares his powerful story of moving from Venezuela to the Dominican Republic, starting as a night receptionist, and rising to become the manager of a top hotel in Punta Cana. Get inspired by his transition to expat life, his love for the vibrant culture of the Dominican Republic, and how he turned opportunity into lasting success. Whether you're considering moving to the Dominican Republic, looking for Punta Cana living tips, or want real advice on how to start a business in Punta Cana, this episode delivers.
Finding peace underwater becomes a powerful journey of diving and wellness in this episode all about scuba diving in Punta Cana. Join Roberto — a passionate advocate of language, creativity, and wellness — as he explores how the ocean becomes a source of healing, clarity, and balance. Punta Cana: A Wellness Oasis Beneath the Waves
Through the lens of diving in Punta Cana, this episode dives into the intersection of adventure and wellness, uncovering how underwater experiences promote both physical health and emotional well-being. Roberto shares his love for diving, his connection to fitness and nutrition, and how community and teamwork—core to his values—extend even into the world of underwater exploration. Whether you're curious about diving in the Dominican Republic, passionate about wellness travel, or seeking ways to live a more mindful, active life abroad, this Punta Cana Podcast episode brings valuable insights and inspiration.
This week, we delve into a story driven by passion: for fitness, for freedom, and for building a fulfilling life in Punta Cana. Join us as we talk with Mandy Herfst, whose journey embodies the essence of living with purpose and passion in paradise. Discover how a deep passion for running became the foundation for your personal growth, business opportunities, and a rewarding expat experience. From early morning workouts to creating a balanced lifestyle abroad, this episode highlights what it means to live with passion every day.
This week, we delve into a story driven by passion: for fitness, for freedom, and for building a fulfilling life in Punta Cana. Join us as we talk with Mandy Herfst, whose journey embodies the essence of living with purpose and passion in paradise. Discover how a deep passion for running became the foundation for your personal growth, business opportunities, and a rewarding expat experience. From early morning workouts to creating a balanced lifestyle abroad, this episode highlights what it means to live with passion every day.
In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we speak with Edwin Manzano, founder of FAMS Aviation. Based in Ft. Lauderdale, Kenya, and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, FAMS Aviation began in 1996 as Caribbean Helicopters, offering helicopter tours in Bavaro and Bayahibe. Since rebranding in 2006, they have become a leader in private jet charter services, aviation consulting, aircraft management, flight crew services, and maintenance.
How to protect your investments in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic? In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we speak with Miriel De La Rosa, partner at Krescent Law and a key figure in the region's legal landscape. With experience in real estate, corporate, civil, and intellectual property law, Miriel shares essential information for those looking to invest, relocate, or start a business in Punta Cana. She explains the legal foundations for starting a business in the Dominican Republic, how to protect your assets, and how to avoid the most common legal mistakes foreign investors make. Whether you're considering a move abroad, exploring business ideas in the Caribbean, or already living the expat life in Punta Cana, this episode is packed with expert advice you can trust.
In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we're joined by Cora Taveras from Canada, who shares how she turned a simple donation idea into Tabitha's Closet, a growing social outreach program that now supports families, orphanages, churches, and charities throughout the Dominican Republic. What began with collecting clothing and household items has expanded to include food, non-perishables, furniture, beds, and even refrigerators—all distributed completely free of charge to those in need. With the help of expats, volunteers, and even international foundations, Cora's work through Misión Caribe is a beautiful example of compassion in action.
Travel Insights: Secrets Revealed for Life in Punta Cana! In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we're joined by Felicia Garcia, a seasoned travel agent and marketing manager who left her hometown of Chicago to start a new life in the Dominican Republic. After living in Punta Cana for almost three years, Felicia has turned her passion for travel into a successful business with @rzotravelservices, helping her clients create unforgettable memories around the world. With over 15 years as an independent travel agent, Felicia specializes in destinations such as Europe, Ireland, the Caribbean, Mexico, and ocean and river cruises. In this episode, she shares expert advice on traveling to Punta Cana, insider tips, and her personal journey after moving abroad and starting a business in the Caribbean. Felicia also explains why Punta Cana is an ideal destination for travelers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking for a more peaceful and meaningful life surrounded by beauty, culture, and opportunity.
U.S. Veteran Support Beyond the Military: Life After Service Abroad, In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, I speak with Brian Scott, aka Ranger Smith, a U.S. veteran and passionate advocate for his fellow veterans. Brian shares his incredible journey from his accomplished military career to becoming an advocate for veterans support beyond the military in the Dominican Republic. Having served in numerous combat operations and earned a Master's in Social Work, Brian discusses how he continues to help veterans navigate their challenges, from mental health to employment, even after their military service. He highlights the exceptional resources available to veterans in the Dominican Republic and why more are considering making the move abroad for better care and opportunities. Brian also explains why Punta Cana is an ideal place for veterans seeking community, support, and a new purpose. Whether you're a veteran looking for resources or simply curious about life as an expat, this episode is filled with valuable insights and inspiration. Don't miss this powerful story of service, advocacy, and finding a new chapter in paradise!
Authentic Italian Cuisine Restaurant in Paradise! In this episode of the Punta Cana Podcast, we talk about bringing authentic Italian cuisine to the heart of Punta Cana with Frank Tantalo. Join us as we discuss the journey behind creating a true Italian food experience in the Dominican Republic, with fresh pasta, homemade sauces, and traditional recipes. If you’re a foodie looking for the best Italian cuisine in Punta Cana, or if you’re interested in starting a business in the Dominican Republic, this episode is for you! Whether you're thinking about moving to the Dominican Republic, starting a business, or investing in Punta Cana real estate, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

