The Olive Press News Podcast

In the latest episode of THE REST IS SPAIN podcast, back after a summer hiatus, Caroline is joined by Walt and Jon to chew over the latest news in Spain.Hot topics this week were the severe wildfires that have plagued Spain during the summer and the case of a missing Marbella toddler who has been taken out of the country by his Russian mother - violating a judicial order.The other big topic discussed by the team is a shocking murder in Almería connecting to a mysterious and isolated hippy beach with an unsavoury reputation.The gang also take a deep dive into the complexities of immigration and the rising right-wing sentiment in Spain, inspired by a Brit in Benidorm who said she moved to Spain because 'there were too many foreigners in the UK'.It's all good stuff - tune in and have a listen!

Inside the Mafia Scene on Costa del Sol: An Exclusive Interview with WaltIn this episode, we dive into the hidden world of organized crime along Spain's Costa del Sol and Gibraltar, exploring the extent of mafia activity, drug trafficking, and how these influences shape local communities. Walt shares firsthand insights from his year living in La Linea, revealing the realities of narco culture, police corruption, and the intricate web of European drug routes.Key Topics:The prevalence of mafia gangs in Costa del Sol and La Linea, with an estimated 200 active groupsHow drug trafficking operates via speed boats from Morocco and the AtlanticThe role of local communities, including Gypsy and immigrant groups, in organized crimeThe influence of narco money on local businesses, including bars and propertyCorruption within Spanish police, judiciary, and political figuresThe complex property and money laundering schemes linked to drug profitsThe cooperation between various mafias—Spanish, Moroccan, Balkan—and their operations across bordersChallenges faced by law enforcement and efforts to combat the flow of illegal drugsFuture episodes: the safety for expats and tourists in these areasTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction to Costa del Sol's reputation for mafia activity00:22 - Overview of the prevalence of mafia gangs in the region01:06 - How geography contributes to organized crime proliferation01:37 - Inside La Linea: the epicenter of drug smuggling and mafia activity02:17 - Walt discusses his year living among narco communities02:46 - The safety and crime dynamics in La Linea03:15 - How narco boats operate and drug delivery at sea03:42 - The influence of narco money on local businesses and community life04:01 - Crossing paths with narcos daily in La Linea04:39 - Community habits, attire, and the lifestyle of narco families05:09 - Police presence, corruption, and the hierarchy of illegal operations05:54 - The social and economic impact of organized crime06:25 - Hierarchies within drug trafficking routes and payments07:14 - The role of spotters and the logistics of smuggling operations08:13 - Police stations, armed guards, and the atmosphere of La Linea09:08 - Unofficial economy: unemployment, black market, and petty crime09:47 - Is La Linea similar to the TV series "The Wire"?10:00 - The political landscape: corruption and community dynamics10:54 - Kidnappings, debts, and internal conflicts within narco circles11:22 - The big families and their control over the local drug trade12:29 - Interrelated families and the absence of gang violence12:58 - How maritime activity and storms influence drug smuggling13:26 - The challenges of catching boats at sea and narco villages14:02 - The dumps of abandoned boats along the coast14:48 - Details of boat operations, wait times at sea, and smuggling tactics15:11 - The environmental side: boats wrecked or abandoned after failed trips15:42 - The involvement of Morocco and cross-border cooperation16:14 - The processing, storage, and manufacturing of narco vessels17:00 - The global supply chain: boats from Portugal, UK, Morocco, and beyond17:42 - The potential for recycled or reused boats and manufacturing hubs18:11 - Moroccan authorities' involvement and corruption links18:44 - How drugs cross from South America via Africa and into Spain19:11 - The different routes and the role of heroin, cocaine, and hashish20:02 - The significance of Algeciras port in drug trafficking and recent busts21:17 - Corruption within law enforcement and high-profile arrests22:08 - The systemic corruption, police involvement, and bribe culture23:36 - The systemic setup that facilitates narcotics flooding into Spain24:50 - The interconnected nature of local mafias, property, and money laundering25:12 - The impact on Marbella, property markets, and local governance26:03 - The potential for a detailed documentary or series based on Walt’s experiences

This episode is sponsored by:Stay Sure Expat - https://www.staysure.com/expat/travel-insurance/Reale Seguros Expatriate Insurance - https://www.reale.es/expats/en/insurance/car-spain?utm_ch=podcast&utm_source=theolivepress&utm_medium=paid&utm_term=&utm_content=&utm_campaign=GenericoShow notes:Most expats in Spain might be unaware that 20% of the population is foreign-born — and that a staggering 50% of retirees in Marbella are from abroad. But behind these numbers lie complex issues about integration, local resistance, and changing demographics that could reshape Spain’s future faster than you think. If you’re curious about Spain’s shifting expat landscape, this episode reveals critical insights every traveler, investor, or potential resident needs to know now.In this eye-opening episode, Walt shares firsthand experiences from Barcelona’s iconic Sagrada Família, where he explains how recent milestones reflect Spain’s ongoing transformation. You’ll discover the surprising demographic divides: why younger expats flock to Barcelona, while retirees gravitate toward the Costa del Sol, and what this means for local communities. Jon unpacks recent statistics from Spain’s National Statistics Institute, revealing how foreign buyers are pricing out locals in prime regions and what a potential political shift could mean for foreigners living there.We break down the real implications of Spain’s evolving multicultural fabric: from the rise of international communities in Barcelona to the tensions simmering beneath the surface over immigration, water use, and development. Jon unearths shocking details about illegal water piping for exclusive polo clubs in endangered coastal zones, risking environmental disaster and community backlash. Plus, hear the extraordinary story of a Swedish kayaker heroically rescuing his dogs amid devastating floods — an act that’s capturing hearts and raising questions about individual bravery versus legal consequences.This episode is essential listening for anyone considering a move to Spain, investment opportunities, or simply fascinated by how demographic shifts threaten old-world traditions while opening new doors. If you want to understand the real Spanish expat experience — the opportunities, the challenges, and the pivotal moments on the horizon — this is your must-hear episode.00:00 - Introduction: Spain's expat demographics and current stories01:13 - Milestone achieved: Sagrada Família's tallest tower completion02:25 - Demographic overview: How expats shape Spanish regions04:09 - Potential political implications of demographic trends10:23 - Tourist trapped in Granada Airbnb: A customer service nightmare13:10 - Controversy: Water siphoning at a Polo Club in Cádiz16:14 - Environmental concerns: Water misuse and land development issues17:33 - Legal and community reactions to development disputes21:06 - Heroic kayak rescuer during flooding: The debate on risk and heroism25:02 - Legal consequences for the flood rescuer and community reactions26:00 - Conclusion: Stay informed with our ongoing coverage#spain #theolivepress #expat #expatlife #newsinspain #flood #barcelona #costadelsol #dogs #airbnb #polo #sagradafamília #kayak #therestisspain

This week a paired down version of the team tackle a more feature-themed episode.On the menu is the Olive Press' intrepid infiltration of a far-right rally in Madrid on the 50th anniversary of the death of dictator Francisco Franco and the mood of the politics in parts of Spain right now.The foodies among us might be delighted to learn about the insights from the recent Michellin star gala in Malaga - and where to find the best restaurants in Andalucia.And Jon regales us with snippets from his fascinating interview with none other than Dr Vasquez, the head doctor for the entire Spain men's national football team - and his tips on how to stay healthy in advancing years.Check it out!

The gang return for the TENTH podcast (wahoo!), all a bit worldly wiser in the ways - and pitfalls - of making a topical podcast.This week the various police forces of the Iberian peninsula come into focus - specificallt the Portuguese police in the Algarve and the Guadia Civil in Mojacar (Almeria).Jon talks about the shocking case of a Costa del Sol lawyer who was given a royal beating by a bunch of cops during a night out in the Portuguese tourist hotspot.Walt reports on the tragic case of a Brit who was clearly killed in a botched robbery in his own home, and how the authorities never investigated the case properly and recently closed it claiming they couldn't find a suspect.The huge tsunami drills that took place in Cadiz this week also get a mention - is it something we should be worried about? And finally the team notes how the oldest people in Spain all seem to come from the same area - what's so special about it?

The Swedish mafia is back with a vengeance on the Costa del Sol it seems, with another fatal broad daylight shooting occurring in Puerto Banus. It's not the first time we've asked this - should we be afraid?The team also tackle the thorny topic of charity abuse on the Costa del Sol, which is rife, according to OP sources. Unscrupulous people worm their way into commanding positions at a charity - and find that there's no local authority with any oversight or supervision over their conduct.Meanwhile spiking is back on the agenda, either drink spiking or - more disturbingly - outright needle-jabbing people with drugs while they're out and about enjoying themselves. The OP has teamed up with the popular Puerto Banus good-time eatery La Sala to launch a campaign combating the source.And finally the sad tale of British expat Margaret Stewart, 82, who took her own life after living in Spain for 36 years. She had resided for years in a naturist camp site near Cartagena, but faced an uncertain future after the authorities sold the land to a developer. A campaign of harassment and intimidation duly followed, it is alleged, threatened to evict Margaret and her husband from the camp and the only home they had.

The OP team return for another episode of insightful chat on the hot topics.This time Editor Jon Clarke, one of the foremost experts on the Madeleine McCann case, gives his verdict on the German judiciary's decision to release prime suspect Christian Brueckner from jail. The man who is '100% guilty of her murder' is now walking free.We then turn our attention to the topic of Tommy Robinson, the highly divisive anti-immigration activist. This newspaper has a chequered past with him, yet he continues to enjoy strong support from a segment of our readership.The final topic is Pedro Sanchez's brave stance on Gaza, being the only high-profile European leader to call out Israel's assault.Give it a listen!

The Olive Press gang return for the fourth episode of the podcast, in association with Staysure Insurance.Welcome to Episode 4 of the Olive Press Podcast. On the agenda this week the team get deep under the surface of a number of timely topics, including the morals and ethics of buying from street sellers in Spain, the intricacies of Gibraltar's historic new deal - and what it means for us.They also tackle Ibiza's unbelievable housing crisis and what can possibly be done about it, Spain's record on animal cruelty and Mijas' infamous donkey taxis, and is Spain actually getting hotter, or is it the same heat as always?

Welcome to the second ever edition of the new Olive Press Podcast, in which the team discusses the big issues of the week for expats in Spain.Caroline Lips sits with Olive Press owner and publisher Jon Clarke and Digital Editor Walter Finch.This time over we explain the horrifying situation of the Swedish expat whose home was stolen from under her feet by crooks using a fake power of attorney from Colombia.We then discuss our ongoing campaign against the painkiller Nolotil, linked to dozens - or perhaps hundreds - of deaths of Brits, Irish and other north Europeans in Spain over the years.We also run the rule over how 60,000 English football fans fared when they descended upon Bilbao for the Europa League final between Manchester United and Tottenham Hotsputs.And of course much more, please tuck in!

Welcome to the inaugural Olive Press Podcast, where we discuss the news and stories in Spain for expats from our set up in Marbella.Caroline Lips sits with Olive Press owner and publisher Jon Clarke and Digital Editor Walter Finch.On today's menu, we talk over our investigation into the Continental Wealth Management scandal in which hundreds of retirees lost their pensions. Sticking to the theme, we then discuss the latest expat scandal involving Iberian Funerals before moving on to the mayor of Estepona and the hot water he has got himself into.It's a wide-ranging survey of the news landscape in Spain in English, we hope you enjoy.

In this episode of the Rest is Spain podcast, hosts Caroline, Jon, and Walt discuss exciting developments at the Olive Press, including a new monthly newspaper and expansion into Barcelona. They delve into pressing issues such as the recent severe weather affecting Spain, a tragic train crash that resulted in numerous fatalities, and a controversial golf course development in a protected area. The conversation also covers a bizarre story of a couple whose belongings vanished during a move to Spain, highlighting the importance of choosing reputable services. The episode concludes with a look ahead to future topics and the promise of a Mafia special.Topic TakeawaysThe Olive Press is launching a new monthly newspaper.Walt is moving to Barcelona to expand Olive Press's reach.Recent storms in Spain have caused significant damage and fatalities.The train crash in Adamuz has raised serious safety concerns.Environmental groups are opposing a new golf course development in a protected area.A couple's belongings vanished during a move to Spain, highlighting the risks of unverified services.The weather is a major concern for residents and expats in Spain.The Olive Press aims to cover more lifestyle and travel news.The tragic train crash has affected many families and raised questions about rail safety.Future episodes will include a special on the Mafia in Spain.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Exciting News03:49 Weather Woes in Spain07:18 Tragic Train Crash15:45 Controversial Golf Course Development18:40 Removal Company Nightmare#spain #newsinspain #Olivepressnews #weather #traincrashes #golf #expats #expatsinspain #barcelona #news #removals #podcast

The Olive Press gang - minus Walt - return for the fifth episode of the Rest is Spain podcast, in association with Staysure Insurance.This week, Jon and Caroline reflect on a busy couple of weeks - including the Lionesses' fabulous Euros victory over Spain where one former expat played a pivotal role. But attentions soon turn to more serious matters as the pair delve into a recent supermarket shootout that has rocked sleepy Estepona. The team then cast an eye over the scandals that have rocked Spanish politics - including allegations that PM Pedro Sanchez profited off his father-in-law's sex empire - before exploring what possible links the infamous Epstein files may have to the Iberian peninsular (plus an explainer on how Jon was the first journalist to link the now-dead paedophile to President Trump, back in 2000).Follow us on Spotify and Apple Podcasts and leave a review if you enjoy the show.The Olive Press podcast is for British and English-speaking expats in Spain, curious Spaniards, and anyone interested in the clash of cultures, crime, and politics shaping modern Spain.Hosted by Caroline Lips and joined by Olive Press publisher Jon Clarke and digital editor Walt Finch, each week they dive into breaking stories, longform investigations, and in-depth interviews with local residents, police, and political figures.

Caroline, Walt and Jon return for the third episode of the Olive Press Podcast, tackling the big expat topics of the week.This time the team have to confront the uncomfortable reality of drug-trafficking mafias on the Costa del Sol, the incoming dangers for expat retirees who've invested their pensions in offshore funds, and Jon's recent expedition to Portugal for yet another hunt for Maddeleine McCann.There's also a host of other topics covered in the week's news that might have missed your radar. Check it out!Follow us on Spotify or Apple Podcasts and leave a review if you enjoy the show.The Olive Press podcast is for British and English-speaking expats in Spain, curious Spaniards, and anyone interested in the clash of cultures, crime, and politics shaping modern Spain.Hosted by Caroline Lips and joined by Olive Press publisher Jon Clarke and digital editor Walt Finch, each week they dive into breaking stories, longform investigations, and in-depth interviews with local residents, police, and political figures.