Turn Left at the Cactus

Calyn Whedbee
  • 5.0 (7)
  • Places & Travel
  • Updated Monthly

Listen in as we chat with residents of the San Felipe, Baja, Mexico area about why they came here, why they stay (or, return as snowbirds), and things which they feel should be better known about our area. Their recommendations range from interesting places, people, or objects to stories, experiences, or ideas. In the process, we also get to know a little bit more about local businesses, organizations, noteworthy events, and some useful and useless information. Please subscribe and follow us on Face Book. Email us: cactusleft@gmail.com. Apoyo con cerveza: https://ko-fi.com/turnleftatthecactus

  1. 4d ago

    S5 EP 119: El Doctor de los Árboles de San Felipe: Lo que Tus Árboles Quieren Decirte: Resumen en Espanol

    El Doctor de losÁrboles de San Felipe/Gary McCunn: Lo que Tus Árboles Quieren Decirte (Un resumen en espanol de la entrevista con Gary McCunn grabado originalmente en ingles) SHOW NOTES: ¿Sabías que uno de los mitos más comunes sobre los mezquites es completamente falso? En este episodio de Turn Left at the Cactus, presentamos un resumen de la conversacion que Cal y Linda tuvieron con Gary McCunn, arborista certificado y especialista en el cuidado de árboles con más de 35 años de experiencia. Gary comparte consejos prácticos para cuidar los árboles en el clima desértico de San Felipe y explica por qué muchos problemas pueden evitarse con un buen riego y una poda adecuada. En este episodio descubrirás: Por qué los mezquites sí necesitan agua. El error más común al podar las palmeras. Con qué frecuencia debes regar los árboles. Cómo preparar tu jardín para la temporada de huracanes. La verdad sobre las raíces de los árboles. Cómo una poda incorrecta puede afectar la salud de un árbol. Qué árboles funcionan mejor en el clima de San Felipe. Además, Gary comparta cómo llegó a vivir en San Felipe y por qué disfruta ayudar a los residentes a mantener jardines sanos y hermosos. Si tienes árboles, palmeras o plantas en casa, este episodio está lleno de información práctica que te ayudará a cuidarlos mejor. Invitado: Gary McCunn Arborista Certificado Puedes encontrar a Gary en Facebook buscando: Gary McCunn o Tree Doc Gary McCunn ________________________________________ Turn Left at the Cactus Historias • Comunidad • San Felipe Porque todos tenemos una historia. Contactanos en: cactusleft@gmail.com o en Facebook

    20 min

  2. 4d ago

    S5 EP 118: Your Trees Are Trying to Tell You Something-Gary McCunn/A Fork in the Road

    SHOW NOTES: The Tree Doctor of San Felipe: What Your Trees Wish You Knew If you've ever wondered why one tree thrives while another struggles—or whether your mesquite really needs water—this episode is for you. This week we're joined by local certified arborist Gary McCunn, who shares decades of experience caring for thousands of trees throughout California, Arizona, and now San Felipe. Gary explains why many common beliefs about desert trees are simply wrong. From proper pruning techniques to irrigation, hurricane preparation, palm care, and choosing the right trees for your property, this conversation is packed with practical advice that could save you money—and maybe even save your favorite tree. Along the way you'll learn: Why mesquite trees absolutely DO need water The biggest mistake people make with palm trees How often trees should really be watered in San Felipe How to prepare your trees before hurricane season Why tree roots don't grow nearly as deep as most people think Why over-pruning can permanently damage healthy trees Which trees thrive best in our desert climate How planting a tree too close to your home can create expensive problems later Gary also shares how he became an arborist, what brought him to San Felipe, and why he loves helping homeowners keep their landscapes healthy. Whether you own a single palo verde or a yard full of palms and mesquites, you'll come away looking at your trees in an entirely different way. Guest: Gary McCunn Certified Arborist Find Gary on Facebook by searching: Gary McCunn or Tree Doc Gary McCunn ________________________________________ Turn Left at the Cactus Stories • Voices • Community Everyone has a story. Contact: : cactusleft@gmail.com #TurnLeftattheCactus #Podcast #SanFelipe #BajaMexico #GaryMcCunn #TreeDoctor #SanFelipeBrewery #SanFelipeRotary #SanFelipeLions #LaPerlaBrewery #July4Celebration #250Anniversary

    48 min

  3. Jun 23

    S5 EP117: Turn Left at the Cactus – Fork in the Road Episodio 116: Geocaching, Perros Callejeros Mexicanos y Encontrando la Aventura con Julie Jansen

    Esta fuente es un resumen de una entrevista del podcast Turn Left at the Cactus con Julie Jansen, una residente de San Felipe que comparte su historia de vida y sus diversas pasiones. Julie relata cómo terminó mudándose a México tras una visita casual a un mercado de pulgas y describe su compromiso con la comunidad a través de la literatura infantil. Es autora de un libro ilustrado inspirado en los perros callejeros locales, cuyas ventas apoyan directamente al rescate canino de la zona. Además, explica detalladamente el geocaching, una actividad global de búsqueda de tesoros mediante GPS que ella desea promover en San Felipe como atractivo turístico. La conversación resalta la vibrante vida social de los jubilados en la región y el profundo afecto de la invitada por su entorno desértico. Para aprender mas: http://www.geocaching.com Si tienes interes en el libro o si quieres saber mas de geocache en San Felipe: 1julietravels@gmail.com ¿Tienes una historia que compartir? ¿Conoces a alguien que esté marcando una diferencia en San Felipe? Nos encantaría saber de ti. Escríbenos a cactusleft@gmail.com o envíanos un mensaje a través de nuestra página de Facebook: Turn Left at the Cactus Podcast. Síguenos, suscríbete y déjanos una reseña dondequiera que escuches tus podcasts. Tu apoyo nos ayuda a seguir compartiendo las historias, las voces y el espíritu comunitario que hacen de San Felipe un lugar tan especial. Turn Left at the Cactus — Todos Tenemos una Historia ¡Y no olvides doblar a la izquierda en el cactus, para no tener días malos! Para Saber Más Visita: https://www.geocaching.com O escribe a Julie en: 1julietravels@gmail.com para conocer más sobre el geocaching en San Felipe o para obtener información sobre su libro infantil. Los “Amigos Especiales del Podcast” de Este Episodio • The Road Runner Restaurant — ¡La apertura de Yuli's Deli será el 6 de julio! • La Perla Brewery — ¡Tienen excelentes promociones para ayudarte a sobrevivir el verano en San Felipe!

    31 min

  4. Jun 22

    S5 EP116 Fork in the Road: Hidden Treasures and Mexican Street Dogs-Meet Julie Jansen

    :Show Notes Turn Left at the Cactus – Fork in the Road Episode 116: Geocaching, a Mexican Street Dogs, and Finding Adventure with Julie Jansen What do hidden treasures, stray dogs from Mexico, and a lifelong love of adventure have in common? This week on Fork in the Road, we sit down with Julie Jansen, author, geocacher, animal lover, and storyteller. Julie shares the heartwarming story behind her book—The Legend of the Gold Speckled Dogs-- inspired by Mexican street dogs, how that experience shaped her perspective, and why the lessons we learn from animals often say as much about people as they do about pets. We also dive into the fascinating world of geocaching—a modern-day treasure hunt that sends participants searching for hidden caches using GPS coordinates. Whether you're an experienced geocacher or have never heard of it before, Julie explains why the hobby has attracted millions of participants around the world and how it can add a sense of adventure to everyday life. Along the way, we explore travel, community, storytelling, and the unexpected discoveries that happen when we take a different path. In This Episode * The inspiration behind Julie's book: The Legend of the Gold Speckled Dogs * The story of Mexican street dogs that touched her life * How writing became a way to share that experience * What geocaching is and how it works * Why geocaching appeals to people of all ages * Hidden treasures, unexpected adventures, and memorable finds * How hobbies can connect people and communities * The value of curiosity and exploration About Geocaching Geocaching is a worldwide treasure-hunting activity where participants use GPS-enabled devices or smartphone apps to locate hidden containers called "geocaches." Millions of caches have been hidden around the globe, turning parks, trails, cities, and remote locations into opportunities for adventure. Why We Loved This Conversation Julie's story reminds us that some of life's best experiences begin with a simple act of curiosity—whether that's rescuing a dog, writing a book, or following a set of coordinates to see what's waiting around the next corner. Connect With Turn Left at the Cactus Have a story to share? Know someone making a difference in San Felipe? We'd love to hear from you. Drop us a line at cactusleft@gmail.com or message us through our Facebook Page: Turn Left at the Cactus Podcast. Follow, subscribe, and leave a review wherever you listen to podcasts. Your support helps us continue sharing the stories, voices, and community spirit that make San Felipe such a special place. Turn Left at the Cactus — Everyone Has a Story And don't forget to turn left at the cactus, for no bad days! To learn more: https://www.geocaching.com or, email Julie at: 1julietravels@gmail.com to learn more about geocaching in San Felipe or to inquire about the children’s book. This episode’s “Special Friends of the Podcast” include: The Road Runner Restaurant-Yuli’s Deli Opening July 6! And, La Perla Brewery-Have they got some summer survival deals for you! #TurnLeftattheCactus #Podcast #SanFelipe #BajaMexico #RoadrunnerCafe #LaPerlaBrewery #GeoCaching #Legendofthegoldspeckleddogs

    46 min

  5. Jun 13

    S5 EP 115: Bifurcacion en el camino: El gusano barrenador

    Notas del show: El gusano barrenador:verdades sobre una amenaza persistente Esta transcripción de unpódcast analiza el resurgimiento del gusano barrenador en regiones deCentroamérica y México, aclarando que no es un gusano real, sino la faselarvaria de una mosca. A diferencia de otros insectos, este parásito sealimenta exclusivamente de tejido vivo, lo que representa un peligrosignificativo para el ganado, las mascotas y la fauna silvestre. El autorexplica que el control de esta plaga ha sido posible gracias a una técnicacientífica que utiliza machos estériles para colapsar las poblacionessilvestres. Aunque la situación requiere una vigilancia estrecha por parte delos dueños de animales y viajeros, se enfatiza que la carne procesada es segurapara el consumo. Finalmente, el texto hace un llamado a la calma y a buscarinformación verificada, reconociendo el trabajo coordinado entreautoridades para evitar que este parásito se establezca nuevamente.

    13 min

  6. Jun 12

    S5 EP114: Fork in the Road: Understanding the Screwworm Situation

    **Turn Left at the Cactus – Fork in the Road** **Episode: New World Screwworm – What Baja Residents Need to Know** The New World Screwworm is back in the headlines, and with reports spreading across Mexico, many Baja residents are wondering what it means for their pets, livestock, wildlife, and daily life. In this Fork in the Road segment, we separate fact from rumor and take a practical look at what the screwworm is, how it spreads, why governments are paying close attention, and what Baja residents should realistically be watching for. We also discuss what the situation means for people who travel regularly between Mexico and the United States with their dogs. This episode isn't about panic—it's about understanding what's happening and knowing where to find reliable information. ### In This Episode * What the New World Screwworm actually is * How screwworm infestations occur * Why livestock producers are concerned * Potential impacts on Baja's ranching communities * What pet owners should know * Current travel considerations for crossing the U.S.–Mexico border with dogs * How officials monitor and control outbreaks * The difference between risk, rumor, and reality ### Helpful Resources * USDA APHIS Pet Travel Information * Official Mexican animal health authorities * Local veterinarians and animal health professionals * Current agricultural and livestock health updates ### Key Takeaway The screwworm situation is serious enough to deserve attention, but not serious enough to justify panic. Staying informed through reliable sources—and avoiding social media speculation—is the best approach for Baja residents, ranchers, pet owners, and travelers alike. --- **Enjoying Turn Left at the Cactus?** Please follow, subscribe, and leave a review on your favorite podcast platform. It helps other Baja lovers discover the show and supports independent local storytelling. Have an idea for a future episode or know someone with a great Baja story? We'd love to hear from you. Go to: cactusleft@gmail.com **Turn Left at the Cactus** — stories, people, and practical insights from life in Baja California. 🌵

    11 min

  7. Jun 4

    S5 EP 113: (Spanish)Fork in the Road: Voce del Desierto

    Notas sobre el programa:Este texto breve en espanol presentamos una exploración sobre el coyote de Baja California, describiéndolo como uno de los sobrevivientes más inteligentes y malentendidos del ecosistema desértico. El autor destaca la asombrosa capacidad de adaptación de esta especie, la cual puede cazar en el desierto o buscar alimento en las costas del Mar de Cortés con la misma eficacia. A diferencia de las percepciones negativas comunes, se revela que estos caninos poseen una estructura familiar monógama y vínculos emocionales sorprendentemente fuertes entre las parejas. La narrativa también explica cómo los intentos humanos por erradicarlos han fracasado, provocando en cambio una respuesta reproductiva compensatoria que ha expandido su presencia por todo el continente. En última instancia, se invita al lector a ver al coyote no como una amenaza, sino como un vecino resiliente que ha habitado la península desde mucho antes del desarrollo humano.

    3 min

  8. Jun 4

    S5.EP112: Fork in the Road: The Voice in the Desert

    Coyotes are among the most misunderstood—and most adaptable—animals in Baja California. In this episode of *Fork in the Road*, we take a closer look at the coyote's role in the desert ecosystem, why encounters with humans are becoming more common, and what expats and visitors should know about living alongside these intelligent canines. Far from the cartoon villain of popular culture, the Baja coyote is a highly successful survivor that has learned to thrive in one of North America's harshest environments. Whether you've heard them calling across the desert at dusk or spotted one slipping between the cardón cacti at sunrise, coyotes are an unforgettable part of the Baja experience. ### In This Episode * The natural history of coyotes in Baja California * How coyotes differ from wolves, dogs, and other wild canids * Why coyotes are so successful in desert environments * The important role coyotes play in controlling rodent populations * Common myths and misconceptions about coyotes * Why coyotes are increasingly seen near towns and neighborhoods * The impact of human food sources on coyote behavior * Practical tips for coexisting safely with coyotes * What to do if you encounter a coyote while hiking or walking your dog * The cultural and ecological significance of coyotes in the Baja landscape ### Key Takeaways * Coyotes are a vital part of Baja's desert ecosystem. * Most coyotes actively avoid human contact. * Human behavior—especially feeding wildlife, intentionally or unintentionally—is often the biggest factor in problematic encounters. * Coyotes help maintain ecological balance by controlling populations of rodents and other small animals. * Understanding and respecting wildlife leads to safer coexistence for both people and animals. ### Featured Segment **Fork in the Road** explores the fascinating world of Baja's coyotes, separating fact from fiction and highlighting why these resilient animals deserve both respect and appreciation. ### Baja Wildlife Tip If you live in or visit Baja: * Never feed coyotes. * Secure trash and pet food. * Keep small pets supervised, especially at dawn and dusk. * Enjoy wildlife from a distance and allow animals to remain wild. ### Quote of the Episode *"To understand Baja, you have to understand the creatures that call it home—and few animals are more representative of survival, adaptability, and wildness than the coyote."* ### Resources * Learn more about Baja California's unique desert ecosystem. * Explore local conservation efforts protecting native wildlife. * Share your own coyote stories and observations with the *Turn Left at the Cactus* community. ### Connect With Us Have a Baja story, question, or topic suggestion? Visit **Turn Left at the Cactus** and join the conversation as we explore the people, places, wildlife, and unexpected adventures that make life in Baja so remarkable. **Subscribe, follow, and leave a review** wherever you listen to podcasts. Your support helps us continue bringing stories from the road less traveled. 🌵🐺 #BajaCalifornia #Coyotes #Wildlife #DesertLife #TurnLeftAtTheCactus #ForkInTheRoad #BajaNature #SanFelipe #BajaAdventure #LivingInMexico #DesertEcology #PodcastLife

    16 min
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5
out of 5
7 Ratings

About

Listen in as we chat with residents of the San Felipe, Baja, Mexico area about why they came here, why they stay (or, return as snowbirds), and things which they feel should be better known about our area. Their recommendations range from interesting places, people, or objects to stories, experiences, or ideas. In the process, we also get to know a little bit more about local businesses, organizations, noteworthy events, and some useful and useless information. Please subscribe and follow us on Face Book. Email us: cactusleft@gmail.com. Apoyo con cerveza: https://ko-fi.com/turnleftatthecactus

Information

  • Creator
    Calyn Whedbee
  • Years Active
    2022 - 2026
  • Episodes
    122
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Calyn Whedbee
  • Show Website
    Turn Left at the Cactus