Why I Left Canada to Build a Bitcoin Empire in El Salvador (And Found Freedom) | John McBride

Bitcoiners - Live From Bitcoin Beach

What does it actually take to start a business or invest in El Salvador as a foreigner? In this episode, John McBride returns to share what he's learned after two years of building multiple businesses across the country. From launching True North Air to owning a coffee farm in El Salvador, John walks us through how he's approached investing in El Salvador with a long-term mindset and real local impact.
We get into how he's structured Empoderar El Salvador, his umbrella company, to prioritize hiring Salvadorans and paying in Bitcoin. He shares how franchises like Mailboxes Etc. and logistics platforms like ShipApollo are helping solve real challenges for both expats and local entrepreneurs. If you're thinking about starting a business in El Salvador, this episode gives you an honest look at the path.
We also unpack the recent IMF El Salvador deal, what it actually means for Bitcoin in the country, and why John believes it's a non-issue for the business community. He also gives his take on how aviation services like True North Air are key to connecting remote areas and supporting industries like mining, logistics, and tourism.
There’s also a great segment on real estate, how John ended up co-owning a coffee farm in El Salvador, and why he thinks it’s still early for smart investors. Whether you're considering a move, exploring opportunities, or just curious about life on the ground, there's plenty here to dig into.
If you’re thinking about investing in El Salvador or want to see how people are actually building here, hit subscribe. And drop a comment if you’ve ever tried importing furniture or owning a helicopter.
—Bitcoin Beach Team
Connect and Learn more about John McBride
https://empoderarsv.com.sv/main/
https://satstreet.com/
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Browse through this quick guide to learn more about the episode:
00:21 — Why John McBride calls El Salvador an early-stage country
02:49 — How Empoderar El Salvador is structured to empower locals
05:00 — Can you finally get Amazon packages delivered in El Salvador?
08:13 — What is ShipApollo and how does it help small exporters?
13:13 — What services will True North Air offer in El Salvador?
15:06 — Is mining coming back to El Salvador?
34:22 — What kind of investors is John looking to help?
37:07 — Why John invested in a coffee farm in El Salvador
39:39 — Is it too late to invest in real estate in El Salvador?
46:51 — What does the IMF El Salvador deal really mean for Bitcoin?
50:29 — Is Bitcoin still a core strategy in El Salvador?

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