Colombia Calling - Living And Working In Colombia

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Richard McColl interviews Simon Faulkner - Senior Lecturer of Academic Excellence at University College Birmingham - about the impact of natural disasters on Colombia's tourism industry, exploring recovery models, infrastructure challenges, and strategies for building resilient destinations. Key topics: Disaster management frameworks in tourism Impact of earthquakes on Colombian destinations Infrastructure challenges in Colombia's tourism sector Community involvement in recovery efforts Diversification of tourism products post-disaster  Sustainable tourism development in Colombia.    The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.  

In this week's discussion on the Colombia Calling podcast, Richard McColl reconnects with Jenny Pearce, a visiting professor at the International Inequalities Institute at the London School of Economics. They delve into her recent book, "¿Quién manda en Colombia? Elites, Poder y Nación", co-authored with Juan David Velasco Montoya. This work not only explores the historical context of Colombian elites but also challenges the common narrative surrounding violence in the country. A critical part of Jenny's work is her analysis of the five "constellations of elites" in Colombia, which include oligarchic, technocratic, union, political, and legal elites. This framework illustrates how these groups interact across different sectors of society, emphasizing that Colombia's power dynamics are complex and interconnected. Jenny describes Colombia as a singular case rather than a paradox, where high levels of inequality coexist with electoral stability. This unique characteristic is essential for understanding the count

For this week's episode, Richard McColl and Emily Hart connected with two humanitarian organisations working on the ground in the wake of last Monday's earthquake. Today, they are joined by Juan Camilo Jiménez, currently in Pereira working for World Central Kitchen, and Pamela Londoño, working in Cali for Hope Project Colombia. Beyond the drama of rubble and rescue, World Central Kitchen and Hope Project work with food and health to accompany people directly after a disaster but also in the weeks which follow, as they find new homes, rebuild their lives, and process what has happened to their communities.  World Central Kitchen (WCK) provides fresh meals in response to humanitarian and climate crises: they have set up food trucks and community kitchens, as well as funding local restaurants to cook meals for victims of the crisis which followed the earthquake. https://donate.wck.org/campaign/749360/donate Project Hope is a global health and humanitarian organisation which has been assessing the impact of the

On this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Gwen Weber discusses her master's thesis on the digitalization of conflict in Colombia, focusing on TikTok's role in recruitment and propaganda among dissident groups. This episode explores how social media influences conflict dynamics and the risks for vulnerable youth. key topics: TikTok's algorithm and content recommendation system The role of social media in conflict and recruitment in Colombia Types of dissident TikTok content and their aesthetic appeal The impact of digital media on vulnerable youth and recruitment Music and sound as propaganda tools in dissident TikTok videos Challenges in content moderation and regulation in Colombia The connection between online content and offline recruitment Potential solutions and the role of AI in content filtering   The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Richard McColl hosts Sergio Guzmán and Kirra Moore of Colombia Risk Analysis to discuss Colombia's political landscape, upcoming presidential policies, and the implications for the first 100 days of incoming President Abelardo de la Espriella's government. They analyse key issues such as peace, security, economic reforms, and foreign relations, providing insights into what to expect from Colombia's new administration.   The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

In this episode of the Colombia Calling Podcast, Richard McColl speaks with Kristian Erskog, a Colombian adoptee raised in Sweden. Kristian shares the emotional journey of discovering his roots, reuniting with his birth family, and navigating the complexities of identity and belonging. The conversation delves into the impact of adoption on family dynamics, the trauma associated with it, and the healing that comes from reconnecting with one's origins. Kristian's story is a testament to the resilience of family bonds and the importance of sharing these narratives. In this conversation, Kristian Erskog shares his profound journey of self-discovery as an adoptee from Colombia, exploring the complexities of family dynamics, cultural identity, and the emotional connections that shape his life. He reflects on his experiences in Colombia, the relationships he has built with his biological family, and the contrasting approaches to adoption and identity among fellow adoptees. The discussion highlights the importance of

La Escombrera, a vast rubble pile overlooking Medellín, is considered to be Colombia's largest urban mass grave. Its excavation this year has unearthed the remains of people whose families have been searching for them for decades.  Earlier this month, it was announced that the excavation there is being expanded. Some hope that what is found in that rubble will answer deeper questions - about how the conflict unfolded here in the city, and how the state was complicit in murders and human rights violations committed by paramilitary groups. This week, Emily Hart, journalist and Colombia Calling host, takes us through an article she wrote on her Substack about La Escombrera, the dynamics and history of Colombia's civil conflict, and about how this war - largely characterised by rural conflict and guerrilla tactics - ended up radically changing the face of Colombia's cities. Sign up and subscribe to Emily's Substack: https://harte.substack.com And don't miss the Colombia Briefing reported by Emily as well. 

When British foreign correspondent Richard McColl purchased, on a whim, a ruined colonial building in the rural Colombian town of Mompós, he imagined a lifestyle of relaxation, with idle afternoons reading the works of Gabriel García Márquez, writing glib observations and enjoying the hypnotic momentum of a Caribbean tropical narrative, swaying in a hammock and the promise of an ice cold beer never far away. He was mistaken. His first restoration yields a hostel, which later becomes a hotel and then spirals into further projects including the restoration of three more colonial houses, experiencing challenges that make him reconsider his upbringing, education and outlook on how he fits into his adopted homeland. With two hotels in Mompós, he experiences the joy of new friendships and a despair over the predictability of guests. With a journalist's eye for a story, McColl navigates the history of Mompós and how its society is a microcosm of today's Colombia, with its feudal system still very much in place,

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, Richard McColl speaks with Emily Hart about her extensive reporting - for a piece in Delayed Gratification magazine -  on the phenomenon of Colombian soldiers fighting in Ukraine.    They discuss the complexities of recruitment, the motivations behind these young men joining foreign conflicts, and the harsh realities they face on the battlefield.    The conversation also touches on the economic factors driving these decisions, the impact on families left behind, and the ethical implications of such recruitment practices.    Emily shares poignant stories from her interviews, highlighting the human cost of war and the psychological toll it takes on soldiers.    The episode concludes with reflections on the broader implications of these conflicts and the importance of human stories in journalism.   Tune in for this and the Colombia Briefing. 

On this week's Colombia Calling podcast, we make in-depth analysis of Colombia's recent presidential election, voter turnout, regional voting patterns, and the implications for the country's future political landscape. I speak to colleague and friend Adriaan Alsema of Colombia Reports. You are warned, I get personal in this one!   The Colombia Briefing is reported by Emily Hart.

In this latest update from Colombia Calling and Colombia Reports, we look at the most recent developments in the lead into the second round of the presidential elections on 21 June. Ivan Cepeda revives the parapolitica scandal and accuses rival of being a member of the right wing AUC paramilitaries. Has the Pacto Histórico shifted from its slumbering state? We look at the different accusations levied at Abelardo de la Espriella, including fraud, bribery, corruption and connections to drug traffickers. Also, what does it mean that Aberlardo de la Espriella is a US citizen? Trouble ahead? And tune in to the Colombia Briefing reported by Emily Hart. 

Join us for an insightful conversation with Juan Pablo Puentes, a long-time listener and expert from Neiva in Huila, Colombia. We explore Colombia's regional potential, infrastructure challenges, renewable energy opportunities, and cultural insights, offering a nuanced perspective beyond the typical narratives. This feels like a special episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, that's because it is...Juan Pablo has been a listener of the podcast for 12 years dating back to when he was a student in the Netherlands. Some things to consider about Neiva and Huila: "Huila produces 20% of Colombia's coffee" "Colombia has high solar radiation potential" "Tax benefits make solar investment viable"   Plenty to think about! Tune in to this and the Colombia Briefing reported by Emily Hart.

On this week's episode, Richard McColl of Colombia Calling and Adriaan Alsema of Colombia Reports dissect the results of Colombia's first round of presidential elections, so you don't have to!    How and why did the far-right "outsider" Aberlardo de la Espriella win? Why were the polls wrong about Ivan Cepeda on the left and what happened to Paloma Valencia? Tune in to this and the Colombia Briefing with Emily Hart. 

In this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, social entrepreneur Francis Gillis shares his journey from the medical cannabis industry in Canada to establishing a premium cigar brand in Colombia. Discover the nuances of Colombian tobacco, the craft of cigar making, and the vision to put Colombia on the global cigar map. With Bribon cigars, he and his business partner have focused on quality and craftsmanship and have opened a cigar factory in Barichara, Santander, that has garnered attention both locally and internationally. The journey hasn't been easy, but seeing the revival of cigar craftsmanship in Barichara has been incredibly rewarding. www.briboncigars.com   The Colombia Briefing is reported by Mathew Di Salvo.

Join us as we explore the critical state of Colombia's tropical dry forests with researcher Maria Isabel Arce Plata. Discover the ecosystem's unique characteristics, the threats it faces from deforestation, climate change, and human activity, and the hopeful strategies for conservation and community involvement.   Tropical dry forests are among the most endangered ecosystems globally, yet we rarely hear about them. With rainfall patterns shifting due to climate change, these forests are facing unprecedented challenges. In Colombia, the remnants of these forests have dwindled to less than a million hectares from an estimated 9-11 million!   Tune in to this week's Colombia Calling podcast and to the Colombia Briefing reported by Emily Hart. 

This episode of the Colombia Calling podcast explores the complex relationship between Canadian mining interests and Colombia's post-conflict landscape, highlighting historical conflicts, foreign influence, and human rights issues. We speak to Lital Khaikin, a freelance journalist and writer currently based in Montréal, who has deeply investigated this topic. Canadian mining companies have increasingly set their sights on Colombia, attracted by its rich mineral resources. However, this influx has raised significant concerns regarding human rights abuses and environmental degradation. The conversation with Lita Khaikin reveals the intricate web of issues surrounding Canadian mining in Colombia. As we delve deeper into these topics, it becomes clear that raising awareness and holding companies accountable is crucial for the future of affected communities. As listeners, consider how you can stay informed and advocate for change in the extractive industries. Important links: "Blood of Extraction" fernwoodpublishi

Explore how Boris Spiwak, CEO of Qash, is transforming Latin America's financial landscape with US dollar accounts using blockchain technology. Discover the impact of stablecoins, regulatory compliance, and the rapid growth in digital financial services across Colombia, Venezuela, and beyond. Learn how stablecoins can provide financial stability in Latin America amidst economic challenges. Hear insights from Boris Spiwak, CEO of Qash, on democratising US dollar access on this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast. In Latin America, financial instability is a pressing issue that affects individuals and businesses alike. With high inflation and currency devaluation, many are searching for reliable solutions to safeguard their wealth. In this episode we'll explore how stablecoins, particularly through the innovative platform Qash, are revolutionising access to US dollar financial services in the region. We'll uncover key insights from my conversation with Boris Spiwak, the CEO and co-founder of Qash, which is

Colonel John Blashford-Snell is a renowned former British Army officer, explorer, and author, celebrated for his extensive expeditions around the globe. With over 100 expeditions under his belt, he founded Operation Raleigh and the Scientific Exploration Society, and he was awarded the CBE for his services in scientific research. On this episode of the Colombia Calling podcast, we discuss his various expeditions in Colombia, such as in 1971, Colonel John Blashford-Snell led an expedition through one of the world's most challenging terrains—from Alaska to Tierra del Fuego in. Range Rover. Imagine navigating dense jungles, swamps, and the unknown risks of the Darien Gap! With the help of a dedicated team and local scouts, they faced challenges that would leave many in awe. They encountered everything from treacherous mud to wild animals, all while ensuring the safety and respect of local communities. We also discuss his expeditions to Colombia's Sierra Nevada in 2016, the Colombian Amazon in 2017 and searching

Colombia is emerging as a prime destination for incentive travel, with its rich culture, stunning landscapes, and diverse activities. Think about the possibilities available in Bogota: **Culinary Tours**: Employees can indulge in Colombia's vibrant food scene, learning to cook traditional dishes with local chefs. **Adventure Activities**: From hiking in the Andes to exploring the Amazon rainforest, Colombia offers thrilling adventures that promote teamwork and bonding. **Wellness Retreats**: Companies can organize wellness-focused trips that include yoga sessions, meditation, and spa treatments to promote relaxation and mental health. And so, we talk to Bruce Mclean of Incentive Travel Colombia and BNB Colombia Tours about this new opportunity for Colombia as a destination for incentive travel. What is Incentive Travel? Incentive travel refers to trips that companies offer to employees as a reward for achieving specific goals or milestones. This can include vacations, team-building retreats, or unique exper