***I actually speak the languages listed here. If your primary language is one of them, please use it. It also shows me you took the time to read my profile.***

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Hello fellow explorers! 👋🏼

My name is Sam and I consider myself a polyglot, epistemophiliac, and fitness enthusiast. A few years ago, I embarked on a journey to become a polyglot. Seven languages later, I'm just as excited as during my first conversation in French, the first language I learned as an adult.

My passion for languages stems from my curiosity about the world and its diverse cultures. Traveling is a way of life for me; whether it's savoring new cuisines, decoding public transportation in a new place, or simply sharing stories over a meal, I find joy in the authentic experiences each destination offers.

Professionally, I've channeled an inordinate amount of education into founding a life sciences consulting firm: https://juniper.life. While my work is rooted in health care, my interests extend to other areas such as entrepreneurship, creative pursuits, and a more holistic approach to health.

Why I’m on Couchsurfing

Since I first attended an event in New York City in 2012, Couchsurfing has added tremendously to my life. Over the years, it has facilitated connections with like-minded souls, the exchange of ideas, and building friendships that span the globe. Here are some specific ways in which CS has enriched my journey:

✅ I met my wife on CS: https://blog.couchsurfing.com/my-journey-with-couchsurfing. Enough said!
✅ I've met some of my closest friends through hosting, surfing, and participating in CS events.
✅ It's created a treasure trove of fun memories, from spontaneous outings to heartfelt conversations.
✅ It has unlocked the door to genuine cultural immersions, for example, staying with an Italian family in Rome and trying their homemade pizza—hard to beat that!

Interests

Outside of medicine, I maintain a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet, and practices that help me calm the mind and stay grounded. I'm active in different ways, all year. From weight lifting at the gym to calisthenics in the park, I always find ways to move.

I love a challenge and immersing myself in situations that make me at least a little uncomfortable. This might include cold showers even in the winter or venturing into new experiences that push my boundaries. A big lover of the outdoors, I enjoy mindful hikes, yoga in nature, mountain climbing, and trail running.

Finally, I'm a big martial arts fan. I see it as a way not only to achieve fitness, but also self-discipline. So, perhaps I'll steer our conversation in this direction at some point!

• literature
• yoga
• meditation
• traveling
• guitar
• hiking
• martial arts
• entrepreneurship
• languages
• medicine
• spirituality
• mindfulness
• biotechnology
• weightlifting
• creative writing
• plant medicine
• personal growth

Music, Movies, and Books

• Music: I would say my taste in music is eclectic. I also play the guitar. When I'm not exploring the vast world of genres, I enjoy figuring out a new song by ear and even coming up with my own.
• Books: While I have a penchant for nonfiction, some fiction works such as Cien Años de Soledad have blown my mind.
• Movies: I'm a fan of documentaries, horror and psychological thrillers, and independent films from around the globe. The last movie that had me engaged from beginning to end was Poor Things with Emma Stone.

One Amazing Thing I’ve Done

I engaged in my first plant medicine experience in a traditional setting in the Andes mountains of my home country, Ecuador, in June 2022. Led by a wise and affable shaman, Ram Das's advice to "quiet the mind; open the heart" deeply resonated with me. This has become one of the most meaningful experiences of my life.

Teach, Learn, Share

The languages I speak. Insight into Latin American culture. I hope to learn just as much from you and thus turn this into a mutually-enriching experience.

What I Can Share with Hosts

Travel anecdotes, how I became a polyglot, nutrition and lifestyle advice, a sense of humor, and obviously a meal or a drink. Cooking is more than just preparing food; it's about creating connections. So, if you're game, I'd love to cook a meal together!

Countries I’ve Visited

Argentina, Australia, Bahamas, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, France, Italy, Mexico, Paraguay, Peru, Puerto Rico, Spain

Countries I’ve Lived In

Canada, Ecuador, United States, Uruguay