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.

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.