EO LACademy 2026: Redefining Success Through Longevity, Purpose, and Connection

What does it mean to build a successful business if we do not have the health, time, or relationships to enjoy what we have created?

That question was at the heart of EO LACademy 2026, held from 21–23 October in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. The event brought together Entrepreneurs’ Organization (EO) members representing 21 chapters, including two from the United States and one from Europe, for three days of learning, personal reflection, and connection.

Set near Costa Rica’s Nicoya Peninsula, one of the world’s recognized Blue Zones, LACademy explored how entrepreneurs can apply lessons from longevity research to their personal and professional lives. Under the theme “Blue Zone Leadership: Longevity by Design,” the program invited members to consider success beyond business performance, focusing on health, purpose, relationships, and well-being.

A different approach to entrepreneurial success

The program brought together speakers who challenged members to rethink how they approach leadership, resilience, and personal well-being.

Among the featured speakers was Jane Marie Chen, author of Like a Wave We Break, who shared insights on resilience, purpose, and creating meaningful impact. Jorge Vindas, a longevity and well-being expert, brought a science-informed perspective to living healthier, more fulfilling lives.

Sessions explored topics including sleep, nutrition, stress, neuroscience, emotional well-being, and the importance of human connection.

Learning also extended beyond the conference setting. Members participated in nature walks, bike tours, pickleball, and visits to a Blue Zone farm. Wellness activities included yoga, mobility and breathwork, and Animal Flow, while dine-arounds created opportunities for conversations and connections.

A musical experience by Carlos Tapado added another dimension to the gathering, bringing members together through music and shared enjoyment.

Lessons in longevity from a 106-year-old guest

One of the event’s most memorable moments came from an unexpected source: a 106-year-old guest known as Don Juan de Dios.

As attendees reflected on the science of longevity, he offered a personal example of what it can look like to remain engaged with life well into old age. According to attendee accounts, he recited a lengthy poem from memory, impressing members with his energy, humor, and enthusiasm.

For Lulu Puras, the encounter reinforced the importance of maintaining curiosity, joy, and meaningful relationships throughout life. In her publicly visible LinkedIn reflection, Puras described the gathering as an opportunity to reconnect with nature, friends, her EO community, and herself.

The moment illustrated a central theme of LACademy: longevity is not simply about living more years. It is also about how those years are spent.

The value of growing together

Beyond the learning sessions, attendees emphasized the relationships and conversations that made the gathering meaningful.

Reflecting on the experience, Victor Treviño, EO Regional Chair for Latin America and the Caribbean, shared a perspective on the value of the EO community:

“Our greatest value isn't just what we learn. It's the people we share the journey with.”

— Victor Treviño (EO Guadalajara), LinkedIn post

His reflection captured how LACademy brought together entrepreneurs from different countries to exchange ideas while exploring a more balanced approach to personal and professional success.

For attendee Martha Alarcón, the event offered an opportunity to connect with entrepreneurs from across Latin America and return home to Ecuador with fresh perspectives. In her LinkedIn post, she reflected:

“Porque emprender también es compartir, aprender y crecer juntos.”

— Martha Alarcón (EO Quito), LinkedIn post

The sentiment, which expresses that entrepreneurship is also about sharing, learning, and growing together, reflects the value of the personal connections fostered at LACademy.

Building businesses and lives that last

EO LACademy 2026 encouraged members to consider how the same intention, discipline, and long-term thinking they bring to their businesses could also support their health, relationships, and personal goals.

Through expert perspectives, experiences inspired by Costa Rica’s Blue Zone, and connections across 21 chapters, the gathering offered members an opportunity to reflect on what matters most.

Members left with new perspectives on longevity and leadership, as well as a reminder that entrepreneurial growth does not happen in isolation. The people, experiences, and relationships that accompany the journey are also part of what makes success meaningful.