What started as a small health camp at the border became one of the most influential wellness retreats in the world.

In this episode of Border Masters, hosts Gustavo de la Fuente and Monique Casellas sit down with Deborah Szekely, co-founder of Rancho La Puerta, and her daughter Sara Livia Brightwood, to explore a story that began under extraordinary circumstances and evolved into a global movement.

From crossing the border during World War II to building a community rooted in health, nature, and purpose, Rancho La Puerta has shaped generations of guests, employees, and the city of Tecate itself. This conversation dives into the origins of wellness before it became an industry, the power of slowing down, and how a binational identity can create deeper human connection.

This episode is about legacy, transformation, and the unique role the border plays in bringing cultures together.

A special thank you to our sponsor CODET Vision Institute for making this episode possible.

Some Border Masters episodes are recorded in English and others in Spanish.

Listen to this episode and more at https://olasmedia.com, on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe, like, comment, and share. For guest suggestions or inquiries, email info@bordermasterspodcast.com.

Chapters:
00:00:00 – Episode introduction and sponsor message
00:02:02 – Welcome to Border Masters and guest introduction
00:04:56 – The origin story: crossing the border without papers
00:07:17 – From a small camp to a world-renowned wellness retreat
00:12:00 – Building a global community and generational legacy
00:13:02 – Health, habits, and living with purpose
00:20:13 – A binational identity and cultural connection at the border
00:23:53 – Digital detox and the healing power of slowing down
00:30:28 – Building trust and crossing the border experience
00:43:20 – A lifetime legacy and what it means to be a Border Master