The LANDED Podcast

John Montgomery
  • 5.0 (1)
  • SOCIETY & CULTURE

LANDED creates tailor-made journeys throughout Central America, South America, and the Antarctic. We’re devoted to exploring these regions—searching out exceptional experiences and locations for our clients. This podcast profiles some of our favorite places and brings you conversations with friends we’ve made along the way—explorers, artists, and visionaries. Subscribe and share.

  1. JAN 29

    Sebastian Correa

    LANDED Podcast 032 Sebastian Correa Sebastián Correa Ehlers is Vice President of Explorations & Land Management at Explora. He leads exploration programs and expeditions across South America, and in emerging destinations such as Iceland.  Trained as a philosopher, with early studies in architecture, and formative experience as a missionary in the Peruvian Andes, his work combines territorial insight, operational leadership, and place-based storytelling. He creates meaningful exploration experiences grounded in respect for landscape, nature, and culture. Sebastian lives in Santiago with his family, and we caught up by phone. “Humbleness is about understanding your scale in this universe. If you discover that, you will be in the right place in your own life. These places are the key for that because in dialy life in cities it’s difficult to understand who you are and what your scale is. You are part of something great but much bigger than yourself. And you are the key to it, but you must understand the size of it and your own size on it”. Explora Lodges Explora is a collection of lodges focused on immersive travel in some of South America’s most remote regions. Designed for comfort while keeping guests closely connected to the surrounding environment, each property sits within extraordinary landscapes. With a strong focus on sustainability and expertly guided excursions, Explora invites travelers to experience the region’s natural beauty and cultural depth in a meaningful way. Explora Uyuni Explora Parque Patagonia Explora Torres el Paine Explora Rapa Nui Explora Sacred Valley Explora Atacama Explora El Chaltén The post Sebastian Correa appeared first on LANDED Travel.

    44 min

  2. 07/11/2025

    Ignacio Masias

    LANDED Podcast 031 Ignacio Masias Born in the Cordillera Blanca region of central Peru, Ignacio Masias is a visionary hotelier, deeply rooted in the landscapes and cultures of the Andes. His first major project was the early development of his family’s land in Aguas Calientes, where he helped shape what would become the Machu Picchu Pueblo Hotel. That early effort helped define a turning point in Peruvian tourism—elevating the standards for service and immersive experiences. After studying business and hospitality in the United States and Europe, Ignacio returned to Peru with a clear mission: to reimagine travel through design-forward spaces, storytelling, authentic cultural connection, and environmental stewardship Since then, “Nacho” has founded a collection of exceptional properties: Atemporal, a stylish urban retreat in Lima; CIRQA, a restored 16th-century monastery in Arequipa; Titilaka, a modern lodge atop a private peninsula on Lake Titicaca; and Puqio, a refined tented camp in the Colca Valley. Each reflects his commitment to understated luxury, cultural resonance, and sustainable travel. We reunited during a trip to Guatemala, reflecting on his journey, lessons learned, and what’s on his horizon. “I think creativity is about having no fear, or at least facing it, because many people are creative but they have a fear of being wrong. So when you overcome that fear of being wrong and you don’t care about being wrong and you learn from being wrong, you let loose your creativity and it grows every time you make a mistake.” The post Ignacio Masias appeared first on LANDED Travel.

  3. 07/03/2025

    Prince Joao Henrique of Brazil

    LANDED Podcast 030 Prince Joao Henrique of Brazil Did you know that, to escape the Napoleonic forces invading Portugal in 1807, the Portuguese court relocated from Lisbon to Brazil? They ruled the empire from Rio de Janeiro until Brazilian independence in 1822. Although no longer in power, the Portuguese royal line continues. Several of its contemporary members are well known for their public service and activism. That legacy is carried on by His Highness Prince João Henrique Maria Gabriel Gonzaga de Orléans Bragança, a scion of Brazil’s Imperial House. A grandson of Pedro de Alcântara, he belongs to the Petrópolis branch of the Orléans Braganza family. Educated in photography and business, João Henrique is a photographer, with about a dozen books capturing the landscapes and people of Brazil, Polynesia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. We discussed one of these books, Olhar de Joao, which highlights his time with 1978 documentation of the Xingu culture of Brazil’s Amazon region. A committed environmentalist, Joao has focused on rainforest preservation. He owns and operates a boutique hotel, Pousada do Principe, in Paraty. He views small-scale tourism as a realistic path to environmental and cultural preservation. Joao lives in Rio, near the rocky Arpoadaor Peninsula—the division between Copacabana and Ipanema. He’s the father of a son and a daughter, Prince João Philippe and Princess Maria Cristina. With his relaxed Carioca surfer vibe and strong ties to Brazil’s monarchical past, João Henrique is a man for every age. A royal spirit, he is distinctly attuned to contemporary Brazilian culture and sustainability. The post Prince Joao Henrique of Brazil appeared first on LANDED Travel.

    23 min

  4. 02/25/2025

    Uncovering the Inca Trail with Guido Huaman Serrano

    LANDED Podcast 029 Uncovering New Sections of the Inca Trail with Guido Huaman Serrano Ghetto Huaman Serrano is a native of Cusco, and a natural as a guide. He’s been scrambling around the Peruvian Andes for decades, leading expeditions on through the Sacred Valley and along remote stretches of the Inca Trail. Recently, I organized a “black diamond” hiking trip with some friends I’ve known for years—likeminded men who, like me, needed some time to think. We needed a pause from our full plates of adult responsibilities to process questions of fatherhood, marriage, faith, and our careers. That route took us from Cusco to Machu Picchu through sections of trail none of us had explored before. For that special trip, Guido was our handpicked guide. Guido helped us dig deeper into a landscape and a culture that I thought I already knew. Along the way, he dexterously stepped us through history, geology, cosmology, botany, ecology, and ornithology. He’s one of those rare guides who, producing a handmade flute from thin air, can pipe an impromptu folk song that actually improves the moment. He’s organized, good humored, prepared, experienced, and unflappable. Need drinking water on a section of trail without any? He’ll find a way. Guido and I talked throughout our journey, and I’ve compiled some of those daily conservations here for you. “(This trip) has meant a lot of things. I think maybe mostly, gratitude. Just thinking about what we are blessed with. I think we were blessed in many ways (…). I definitely feel gratitude for both this world that’s been created and the opportunity to learn of other cultures and share that with the world.” The post Uncovering the Inca Trail with Guido Huaman Serrano appeared first on LANDED Travel.

    32 min

  5. 11/05/2024

    Cartagena’s Vibrant Culinary Scene

    LANDED Podcast 028 Discover the Vibrant Culinary Scene of Cartagena with Local Chefs Cartagena boasts one of South America’s most dynamic and flavorful food scenes. Each year, new culinary delights emerge, reflecting the city’s rich tradition, skill, and innovation. In this episode, the focus shifts to Cartagena’s culinary creators. Juan Camilo Ossa, El Beso Restaurant Juan Camilo Ossa, chef at El Beso restaurant, highlights Cartagena as a remarkable spot for the culinary industry, buzzing with trendiness. For him, dining in Cartagena is a vibrant experience, filled with colors and tastes—approachable and authentic. Dining in Cartagena is all about celebrating simplicity and the flavors on the plates. His restaurant is located in the bohemian Getsemaní neighborhood. Once home to enslaved people, this area is now a vibrant hub. Post-pandemic, Getsemani is flourishing, coming alive with artists and a tight-knit community. Juan mentions that the colorful streets are filled with celebrations, where people host carnivals, barbecues, and soccer games. He emphasizes that this is the magic of Getsemani—an interconnected community that supports one another. El Beso RestaurantWebsite: https://elbesorestaurant.com/Instagram: @elbesorestaurant Alejandro Ramirez, Pascal & Municipal Alejandro Ramirez shares his extensive experience in the restaurant business across Europe, Argentina, Mexico, and the United States, which led him to return to Cartagena to launch his first restaurant. He appreciates the city’s laid-back vibe and slower pace of life. Alejandro describes Cartagena as welcoming, fostering a close-knit atmosphere. He believes that he is not just working for his restaurant but for the city itself. When one restaurant thrives, they all benefit. To showcase this, Alejandro tells us about the WhatsApp group the restaurants have to support each other, maybe just to ask who has some sugar left for tonight’s dessert. He highlights food festivals like Alimentarte, held every January, where renowned chefs gather to create special dishes, with profits benefiting the Corazon Verde Foundation. Alejandro points out that there’s always a celebration happening in Cartagena, reinforcing the community spirit. PascalWebsite: https://quienespascal.com/Instagram: @quienespascalMunicipalWebsite: https://restaurantemunicipal.com/Instagram: @rest_municipal Martha Mogollón, Granitos de Paz Martha, a native of Cartagena, has been passionate about social causes since high school. She explains that Granitos de Paz embodies the belief that small efforts can lead to significant change. Founded in 2004, inspired by a comparison of Cartagena’s poverty to that of Africa, Granitos de Paz focuses on providing tools and opportunities for people to rise above extreme poverty. Martha emphasizes the resilience and vibrant dreams of Cartagena’s residents as the driving force behind their mission. The “Patios Productivos” program, also runned by Granitos de Paz, began in 2007/2008 to help individuals grow their own food, transforming neglected gardens into sources of organic produce. Families that once struggled to make ends meet are now cultivating microgreens and earning a sustainable income. Restaurants like Celele and Mar y Zielo source their products, showcasing the impact of Granitos de Paz. They aim for restaurants to feature dishes that highlight their work, connecting diners to the positive change their meals contribute to in the community. Celele has set an exemplary standard for innovation and collaboration, helping Granitos de Paz grow their mission. Currently, 207 families are involved, with projections to expand to 350 by year’s end. Granitos de PazWebsite: https://granitosdepaz.org.co/Instagram: @granitosdepazPatios ProductivosWebsite: https://patiosproductivos.org.co/ The post Cartagena’s Vibrant Culinary Scene appeared first on LANDED Travel.

    41 min

  6. 06/28/2024

    The magic of Patagonia with Gonzalo Sanchez

    LANDED Podcast 027 Discovering the simple ways of living in Patagonia with Gonzalo Sanchez In this episode of the LANDED podcast, we had the pleasure of talking with Gonzalo from his hometown of Puerto Natales, where he lives with his wife and their two children. Gonzalo has devoted his life to the natural and cultural treasures of Patagonia. Sometimes you visit a place so special, that it gains a retrospective significance out of all proportion from the actual time spent there. A place that creates a lifelong affinity—a connection to your heart and your sense of self. A place that becomes part of you. Estancia Cerro Guido, a private ranch located east of Chile’s Torres del Paine National Park, has that effect on visitors. They are captivated by the wildness, the spirit, the hospitality of this stunning slice of Patagonia. Gonzalo Sanchez is Estancia Cerro Guido’s mouthpiece—its chief evangelist to the outside world. He’s another one of those Patagonians who, after sampling the wide world, realized that he was born in the right location after all. This episode is more than just a hotel discussion, Gonzalo proudly talks about their work at one of the biggest working estancias, still operational in Patagonia, providing an authentic experience to travelers. Gonzalo explains how he’s always felt linked to Patagonia, making it his own cultural background. He now lives in Puerto Natales with his wife and children who are also proud of their Patagonian heritage and culture. Additionally, just 45 minutes from Torres del Paine National Park, Estancia Cerro Guido offers access to all the main highlights as well as a myriad of activities that are accessible because of them being a working ranch. We also discuss the estancia’s efforts to achieve a harmonical balance between the conservation of wildlife and the gaucho culture. As gauchos and pumas have long been on opposite sides to protect the live stock. Estancia Cerro Guido is actively trying to change the perception of pumas within the community, using the old leoneros, a kind of gauchos that used to just hunt pumas, along with scientists and enthusiasts to help track and protect these animals. “We seek to continue our lifestyle tradition, in harmony with nature. We want to show all of our travelers and the world that Patagonia is not only the natural beauties that they will see in Torres del Paine but also has a rich cultural heritage. We are keepers and we are trying to preserve the true spirit of Patagonia.” Estancia Cerro GuidoWebsite: https://estanciacerroguido.com/en/Instagram: @estancia.cerroguido The post The magic of Patagonia with Gonzalo Sanchez appeared first on LANDED Travel.

    32 min

  7. 05/03/2024

    Adventure in Chile’s Lake District with Rodrigo Vera

    LANDED Podcast 026 Chilean Adventures with Rodrigo “Negro” Vera In this episode of the LANDED podcast, we talk with Chilean adventurer Rodrigo “Negro” Vera and discuss the many possibilities the Chilean lakes district has to offer for adventure enthusiasts. Rodrigo Vera is a man of the mountains. Born in Santiago, Chile, Rodrigo moved to northern Patagonia in his teens. The son of mountaineer Victor Vera, Rodrigo learned from his father and reveled in their explorations of the forests, volcanoes, the rivers of Araucania. After serving as a mountain instructor for the Chilean Army, Rodrigo certified with the Asociación Nacional de Guías de Montaña and as a Wilderness First Responder. In 2010, Rodrigo founded Mawida Adventures, a multi-sport outdoor adventure company based in the Chilean Lake District. He enjoys skiing, climbing, river sports, and the simple pleasures of life at home. He lives with his family in the countryside outside Pucon, at the foot of the always lively Villarrica Volcano. In this episode we go through Rodrigo’s life choices and the creation of his company, as well as everything that the area has to offer. Pucon, where Rodrigo is based, is often rightly compared to Jackson Hole or Banff. Rodrigo has explored this area extensively, looking for the best activities throughout, and offering an array of options for all desired levels of activity. As we learn about his journey, we find ourselves exploring the remarkable landscape of Chile and its colorful people. Rodrigo Vera’s journey is full of inspiring stories. He enjoys being in the wild, doing expeditions, and receiving people from around the world. He describes himself as ‘a character’ and an adventurer. He enjoys pushing his own limits and pushing others to thrive and achieve something special. So, whether you are an adventure junkie, an outdoor enthusiast, or someone who appreciates nature, this episode will have you longing for the Chilean Lakes District. Mawida AdventuresWebsite: https://mawidadventures.cl/Instagram: @mawidadventures The post Adventure in Chile’s Lake District with Rodrigo Vera appeared first on LANDED Travel.

    36 min

  8. 03/15/2024

    Sustainability & Social Change with Reyna Oleas and Roberto Plaza

    LANDED Podcast 025 Sustainability & Social Change with Reyna Oleas and Roberto Plaza In this episode of the LANDED podcast, we talk with our Galapagos friends and Ecuadorian power couple Reyna Oleas and Roberto Plaza who devoted their talents to the Galapagos sustainability and conservation. Located in Santa Cruz’s highlands, Montemar’s private villas is a holistic project in the Galapagos, combining luxury tourism, organic farming, and species conservation. Under Reyna and Roberto’s guidance, the Montemar project has grown well beyond their property and has become a center for the community and science. Reyna and Roberto tell us how the project was born, Montemar’s development and what it has meant for them as a family, as well as the crucial part they played for the community during the pandemic. When frontiers were closed and there was no money coming in from tourism, islanders were struggling to prepare a bowl of soup for their families. Working with other special people from the Galapagos and the goodwill from so many, Reyna and Roberto talk about the strength of an ‘illuminated community’ and the work of love from everyone involved. This episode is more than just a Villa pitch; it’s a walk through a community’s struggle and how Reyna and Roberto’s efforts, helped ‘activate’ so many others to create real change within the Galapagos. As we learn their journey, we find ourselves admiring the courage and commitment if the local community who played a big part in keeping the pristine form of the Galapagos Islands. Whether you have visited the Galapagos or there is a trip on your radar this episode will bring greatest appreciation to the area’s engagement and responsibility towards the residents and their surrounding nature. Reyna and Roberto’s in an inspiring story that will hopefully encourage us all to think about the common well-being and how we can help those in need. “We did it by heart because it’s what we love. We identified what we wanted to do as a family life project. And I believe that all these components were born from what we believe in and not because there is a market for. It’s the path want to walk as a family because we believe in it.” Montemar VillasWebsite: https://montemar.ec/ Instagram: @villasmontemargalapagos The post Sustainability & Social Change with Reyna Oleas and Roberto Plaza appeared first on LANDED Travel.

    48 min
See All (32)

About

LANDED creates tailor-made journeys throughout Central America, South America, and the Antarctic. We’re devoted to exploring these regions—searching out exceptional experiences and locations for our clients. This podcast profiles some of our favorite places and brings you conversations with friends we’ve made along the way—explorers, artists, and visionaries. Subscribe and share.

Information

  • Creator
    John Montgomery
  • Years Active
    2023 - 2026
  • Episodes
    32
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Show Website
    The LANDED Podcast