The Honest Drink Podcast
Three American-raised friends living in China candidly explore the madness of modern behavior. We’ll be sipping on drinks with special guests as we tackle different topics on current culture, self-help, society, human psychology, nationality, politics, news and life. All this in an effort to reduce misconceptions about the world and ourselves. Tune in as we make these attempts and stumble our way towards becoming happier, healthier and wiser.
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Cyrus Janssen: It's Not All Scary
08/05/2026
Cyrus Janssen: It's Not All Scary
Cyrus Janssen is a YouTuber and speaker on China and the world. Today we talk about countering fear-driven narratives about other countries, being a “global citizen”, and its impact on how we engage or disengage with the rest of the world. We also talk about Chinese brands in America, as cost-of-living pressures rise and US domestic polarization and war continues. Cyrus also describes how he was recently offered $10,000 US dollars to lie to his viewers, and how the money was ultimately traced back to perhaps the most recognizable AI company in the world. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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Julie Sun: Love Practically
07/20/2026
Julie Sun: Love Practically
Julie Sun is a brand marketer and content creator who creates English content on Instagram and TikTok as, “Julie your China friend”, explaining Chinese culture and dating to foreigners. Having worked in international marketing across the world, her sociological research has brought her traveling to over 30 countries, often by herself. Now she uses her voice to introduce modern China to a Western audience, providing an honest perspective on Chinese society, dating and everyday life. Today we talk about modern society and the search for our place in it. We talk about when after receiving countless messages from foreign men asking her to help them find a Chinese wife, Julie found herself researching China's matchmaking industry—and what she discovered raised difficult questions about love, practicality, immigration, family expectations, and whether the search for the "perfect partner" has become one of the defining struggles of our generation. We talk about differences between Western and Chinese communication styles, criticism and social norms around hugging, staying friends with exes, and saying “I love you”. We also get into marriage customs like cai li or dowry, financial independence, and the quarter-life crisis.
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190- Eric Hovagim: The New American Dream
07/07/2026
190- Eric Hovagim: The New American Dream
Eric Hovagim is an American content creator, industrial engineer and political commentator who, in his own words, “moved to China in late 2025 to escape the American Century of Humiliation”. He’s worked in politics in his home state of Arizona and in New York City, producing a handful of videos that helped get Zohran Mamdani elected NYC mayor in 2025. Recently, Eric has been producing content for popular political commentator, Hasan Piker. He was also previously part of a climate-policy think tank in the US and an engineer on the Hyperloop team. Today, we talk about why Eric is here in China and what he hopes to learn. He shares his frustrations with the state of affairs in the US and the crisis of the American dream. He argues the need for revolutionary change and optimism as we talk about what he’s observing and studying from his experience in China that he could one day bring back to America. We also talk about our experiences with policing and surveillance in China, societal fear, AI concerns, Eric’s self-identification as a socialist and what annoys him being here. We share plenty of laughs in an otherwise serious discussion, and we might also have offended all French people. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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189- Raffe, BT & Dino: To Live and Die in Shanghai pt.2
06/16/2026
189- Raffe, BT & Dino: To Live and Die in Shanghai pt.2
Raffe is the owner of Cantina Agave, the very first Mexican restaurant in Shanghai. Today he is joined by some old friends, BT and Dino on the podcast, as we celebrate Cantina’s 18th anniversary and the launch of his new restaurant, Vice. We talk about why he’s stayed in Shanghai and discuss the constant pressure to keep up with this unique city, the challenges of running F&B amid unpredictable rules and high turnover, and how the city shifted from “wild east” days to stricter, safer, more equal enforcement. We compare Shanghai’s convenience and safety with rising costs, crime, and lenient enforcement in the U.S., especially LA, and talk about perspective, media-driven fear, and cultural adaptation. We talk about a renaissance in Shanghai’s dining scene, social media’s impact, and Cantina’s clientele flipping to 70% local Chinese. We also end the episode with a blindfolded taco taste test that doesn’t go as planned. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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Daniel Dumbrill: Why Western Narratives About China Don’t Work Anymore
05/19/2026
Daniel Dumbrill: Why Western Narratives About China Don’t Work Anymore
Daniel Dumbrill is a geopolitical commentator, independent journalist, and entrepreneur. He is known for his in-depth analysis of China, global politics, media narratives, and the shifting balance of power in an increasingly multipolar world. His commentary explores US-China relations, international affairs, and how media framing influences public understanding of global events. Daniel is recognized for challenging conventional narratives and encouraging audiences to examine geopolitical issues with a critical and evidence-based approach. Today we talk about defending China against Western propaganda. How control of information is influencing global discussion, society, and personal beliefs. We also talk about life in China, the great firewall, censorship, and lessons from China’s past. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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187 - YI: The Love Bomb
04/14/2026
187 - YI: The Love Bomb
YI is the owner of fine jewelry brand YI Collection and former stylist for Vogue China. Today we talk about “love bombing”, attraction, sex and the city…literally. We talk about the differences in what men and women might be attracted to and the games we play when we’re in the chase. We talk about rejection, self-worth, appearance vs personality, and judging faces. YI shares her mindset after leaving a relationship of eight years, her views on independence, loneliness, monogamy, white expat men, and dating strategies like negging and acting dumb. We discuss ethnicity and identity as Chinese-Americans, changing beauty standards, and the importance of health and fitness in maintaining marriages and relationships. We also talk about squat toilets. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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186. Dr. Steve Vinay Gunther: The Truth About Us
03/29/2026
186. Dr. Steve Vinay Gunther: The Truth About Us
Dr. Steve Vinay Gunther is a renowned Australian Gestalt psychotherapist and founder of the acclaimed Northern Rivers Gestalt Institute in Australia. He is also the author of the bestselling book “The Woman In Your Life - A Man’s Guide to a Happy Relationship”. He has been in practice for over 40 years with an accomplished career in psychology, working with individuals, couples and families from all over the world. Today, Dr. Gunther shares why his focus shifted to China and we get into a deep conversation about relationships. We talk about what prevents us from sustaining healthy relationships and when to walk away. We cover failed marriages, self-awareness, listening for “grains of truth” and men’s difficulty identifying and expressing deeper feelings. We talk about shame, “un-virtues” and why running away from pain doesn’t work. We also discuss the over-simplification of therapy in this digital age, the dangers of using AI for emotional guidance, and a wholistic way of perceiving our own existence called systems thinking. We explore relationships from at least three levels, the relationship with ourselves, the ones we love, and society. Join us as we uncover some hard truths. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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185 - Matt Chen: A Chinese Time In My Life
02/12/2026
185 - Matt Chen: A Chinese Time In My Life
Matt Chen is a Chinese American entrepreneur, social media content creator, and builder of Daily Hanzi, an app helping people learn to read Chinese. Currently at 24 years old he’s decided to ditch his aerospace engineering degree and restart his life by moving to China. Focused on bridging East and West through content about language, culture and identity he hopes to reconnect with his Asian heritage while improving his own Chinese literacy, finding a different path for himself in a new world. Today, we talk about Matt’s experience growing up in the US as an ABC and compare it to our own experience from an older generation. We talk about his choice to move to China just ten months ago, his revelation during a job interview with a US defense contractor, and what’s behind the “A Very Chinese Time In My Life” trend happening in America. We also talk about the broad anxiety amongst his younger generation, finding purpose, and balancing digital and analog life. Happy Chinese New Year! _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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Chocolate, Weapons & Midlife - James Wu & Charles Zeng
01/27/2026
Chocolate, Weapons & Midlife - James Wu & Charles Zeng
We are joined by friends of the show Charles Zeng, owner of Charlie’s Burger, and James Wu visiting from the U.S. Today we debate the pros and cons of having kids or not. James shares his reasoning on his and his wife’s decision not to have kids. We talk about societal pressures, its impact on marriage and our thoughts on using physical force when it comes to disciplining our kids. We talk about chasing happiness, comparing kids to chocolate, and our biggest fears when it comes to growing old. We talk about the midlife crisis, aging and managing anger day to day. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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183 - Happy In The New Year
01/06/2026
183 - Happy In The New Year
Today we welcome in the new year as we film a special episode facing the camera. We play “agree or disagree” and discuss several relatable topics, from the effectiveness of New Year’s resolutions to whether romance is dying. We also rank our worst personal habits to leave behind from the past year. This episode is packed with introspection, light-hearted debates, and a drive to live better in 2026. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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182 - Rico Zhang: On An Island
12/23/2025
182 - Rico Zhang: On An Island
Rico Zhang is a Chinese-Australian Director known for his technical filmmaking, award-winning music videos and bold aesthetic world-building. His most recent project was Dongji Rescue 东极岛 (2025), a film based on the true story of Chinese fisherman from Dongji Island who risked their lives to rescue over 300 British POWs after a Japanese transport ship was torpedoed by the U.S. Navy in WWII. Today Rico shares the challenges working on Dongji Rescue, finding cultural identity in his filmmaking in China and the West, and we discuss the complexities of being an ABC in today’s world. We talk about the impact of cultural influence, and how the evolving global landscape shapes identity. Rico also reveals his fascinating physical ability to not get drunk and the importance of focusing on commonalities rather than differences. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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181 - The HaHa Monsters
12/08/2025
181 - The HaHa Monsters
In this special episode, the hosts delve into the theme of rushing through life and reflect on their personal experiences with close friendships. They discuss the difficulty of savoring moments, and the significance of 'Irish goodbyes'. The conversation centers around Aric's impending move to California, exploring the emotional and practical implications for their friendship and the future of the podcast. They also touch on the broader societal impacts of AI and their evolving perspectives. Despite the impending changes, the hosts affirm their commitment to their deep-rooted friendship and the continuation of the podcast. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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180 - Tilman Rieger: Life, Death, and In-Between
11/18/2025
180 - Tilman Rieger: Life, Death, and In-Between
Today’s conversation takes a deep dive into the paranormal, exploring Tilman's fascination with near death experiences, reincarnation, shared death experiences, and the time between lives. Tilman shares compelling stories and accounts, including documented cases of miraculous healings and children's memories of past lives. The discussion also touches on the transformative impact of these experiences, the concept of a higher power, and the importance of living authentically and without fear. This episode is a captivating exploration of the unknown and the unexplained. Tilman Rieger is the founder of 8C Consulting, focused on conflict management, interpersonal and nonviolent communication. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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179 - c.j. Ng: Why You Suck At Selling
10/28/2025
179 - c.j. Ng: Why You Suck At Selling
c.j. Ng is a sales, leadership, and experiential learning coach. He has helped companies ranging from Google, Volvo to Swarovski. Today we talk about the often-overlooked skill of sales, not just as a career, but as a life-altering tool. We explore the nuances of effective communication, the need for empathy, and the fine line between influence and manipulation. We also discuss the challenges of giving and receiving feedback in professional environments, particularly in Asian cultures. We discuss if it’s better to give feedback anonymously or not. Whether you're in sales or another industry, c.j. emphasizes the importance of learning how to sell—be it a product, an idea, or yourself. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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178 - Dr. George Hu: Brave New World
09/24/2025
178 - Dr. George Hu: Brave New World
Dr. George Hu, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist from the United States. He is currently the Director of Counseling, Wellness, Disability, and Accommodation at Duke Kunshan University, and the President of the Shanghai International Mental Health Association. Previously, he was the Department Chair of Mental Health at Shanghai United Family Pudong Hospital. Today, we discuss modern emotional and mental health challenges including social awkwardness, emotion regulation and fear. We talk about the cognitive impacts of technology and AI, societal shifts in the perception of masculinity, the importance of self-reflection, and the broader existential anxieties that shape our current age. Dr. Hu emphasizes the essential need for resilience and emotional intelligence in navigating today's uncertainties and highlights the importance of redefining societal values beyond professional achievement. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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177 - Cyrus Janssen: A Break In The Wall
08/19/2025
177 - Cyrus Janssen: A Break In The Wall
Cyrus Janssen is a YouTuber, speaker and self-proclaimed US-China ambassador. He returns to discuss his experiences and observations on the evolving relationship between China and the US, from ground level. Today we talk about cultural exchange, economic challenges and its impact on both Chinese and American society. We talk about the recent trend of travel vloggers and YouTubers coming to China, the rise of Chinese soft power from Wukong, Deepseek to Labubu, and its effect on American youth. We also talk about the potential of US and China working more closely together, tariffs and societal values. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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176 - Arthur Jones: Tip Of The Iceberg
07/29/2025
176 - Arthur Jones: Tip Of The Iceberg
Arthur Jones is a British documentary filmmaker and co-host of the “飞天胡说” podcast. He directed “The Six” (六人), a documentary about the untold story of the six Chinese survivors onboard the Titanic. Executive produced by James Cameron, the film explores an extraordinary story of survival and dignity in the face of racism and anti-immigration policy. Today we talk to Arthur about his film “The Six” as we dive into broader themes of identity, heritage, trauma, resilience and exclusion. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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175- Ron Lee: The AI Dumpling Dilemma
07/03/2025
175- Ron Lee: The AI Dumpling Dilemma
Ron Lee is an award-winning creative technologist and VP, head of growth at Monks, a digital-first marketing, technology services and consulting company. He is a technical expert in the fields of digital interaction, game experience, connected retail, and integrated design. As an industry opinion leader, Ron has been invited by media and top industry conferences to share insights on AI, future brand experience and interactive technology. His work includes complex tech projects for clients such as, Huawei, Vivo, Oppo, Amazon, Nike, Adidas just to name a few. Today we talk about the rapidly evolving world of AI and its impact on creativity, work and family. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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174 - Lily Lam: A Change Gonna Come
06/11/2025
174 - Lily Lam: A Change Gonna Come
Lily Lam is a content creator and designer based in New York City. She creates content that speaks to underrepresented voices and is an influencer within the world of Magic: The Gathering. Today, we talk about gentrification in New York’s Chinatown, cultural identity as Chinese-Americans, and the recent rise of Chinese soft power. Lily shares her thoughts on deep systemic problems in America and we discuss how American perceptions of China are shaped and how they’re now changing. We talk about Lily’s personal transgender experience, transitioning, its impact on her family, and finding inner peace in a new, yet familiar identity. We also talk about fashion and how it can be a useful tool in building personal confidence through individual style instead of chasing trends. This is a heartfelt discussion on identity, acceptance, and change. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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173. Jason Oakley: The Bite
05/27/2025
173. Jason Oakley: The Bite
Jason Oakley is a renowned Chef who has spent his career working in multiple Michelin star restaurants and 5 star hotels around the world, including the Mandarin Oriental, St Regis, Peninsula, Wynn Las Vegas, the French Laundry and 3 on the Bund just to name a few. Having spent a career serving upscale fine dining patrons, he now pursues his real passion with Sub Standard, a humble neighborhood sandwich store making some of Shanghai’s most popular sandwiches, keeping it casual, accessible and unpretentious. Sub Standard frequently tops the charts for most repeat customers on China’s biggest food delivery apps. Today we talk about why Shanghai never had a good sandwich culture, the ups and downs of western cuisine in China, and the cliche of “popular” western dishes here. We also talk about corruption with the Michelin guide ratings, why authentic Italian pizza is bad and fighting mosquitoes at night. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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172. Amy Fu & John Kuo: See You Never
05/07/2025
172. Amy Fu & John Kuo: See You Never
Amy Fu and John Kuo are old friends of the show. In this episode we do a lot of drinking and explore Amy’s transformative experience living a minimalist life in a van and how it reshaped her values and outlook. Amy shares her experiences of breaking away from societal norms, quitting her job, and being disowned by her tiger parents. The discussion covers the challenges and rewards of living on the road, cultural pressures of urban living, and connecting with nature. Through shared anecdotes and philosophical reflections, this episode explores the intrinsic human need for simplicity, community, and self-reflection. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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171. Matt Galat & Tice Kralt: Keep It Moving
04/24/2025
171. Matt Galat & Tice Kralt: Keep It Moving
Matt Galat (加油马特) is a vlogger, global traveler, and filmmaker. He is best known for his video channel JaYoe Nation and his newer YouTube channel Nuance, where he continues to explore East-West topics while traveling. Tice Kralt is a bicycle tourer turned web developer, currently working remotely as a full-stack engineer in Taiwan. Today we talk about life in transit, adjusting to America’s suburban lifestyle, and returning to China’s dynamic urban cities. Matt and Tice share the energy they feel rediscovering China again and how it compares elsewhere. We also talk “van life”, gun violence, and we compare experiences on social issues, culture, technology, language and travel. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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170. Cameron Johnson: Trade War 2.0
04/16/2025
170. Cameron Johnson: Trade War 2.0
Cameron Johnson returns to talk about the current US trade war, tariffs, and the new world order. Cameron Johnson is an expert in supply chains, manufacturing, and technology. He is frequently sought out for his expertise on US-China trade and supply chain issues, and is a delegate to Washington DC where he advises US politicians and officials. He is also a professor at New York University and former Vice-Chair of the board at the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai. He is a senior partner at Tidalwave Solutions with clients in various high technology sectors and he has been quoted by both American and Chinese news outlets alike. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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169. Anna Yang: Chaos Theory
03/25/2025
169. Anna Yang: Chaos Theory
Anna Yang is an award-winning advertising creative. She has been named one of the Top 30 creatives in China by Campaign Brief. She is also the youngest ever delegate to have represented China and won gold at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity. In this episode, we engage in a chaotic and diverse conversation about chaos theory, gravity, and Anna’s eviction and attack in New York. We talk about the philosophical nature of math, whether anything is truly random in life, and how we are all modern day cyborgs. The discussion then delves deeply into the cultural and biological significance of blood, examining how blood may serve as a social construct that connects all of humanity. This episode is a mix of science, personal anecdotes, and reflective thought experiments on kinship and love. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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168. Cameron Johnson: The Big Connection
03/03/2025
168. Cameron Johnson: The Big Connection
Cameron Johnson is an expert in supply chains, manufacturing, and technology. He is frequently sought out for his expertise on US-China trade and supply chain issues, and is a delegate to Washington DC where he advises US politicians and officials. He is also a professor at New York University and former Vice-Chair of the board at the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai. He is a senior partner at Tidalwave Solutions with clients in various high technology sectors and he has been quoted by both American and Chinese news outlets alike. His work helping US buyers source personal protective equipment during the pandemic has been featured on the PBS series Frontline titled “America’s Medical Supply Crisis”. Today we talk about US-China trade relations, the supply chain ecosystem, and the political forces that shape it. Cameron shares what’s fueling America’s approach to “de-risking” or “decoupling” from China and his long-term outlook for global peace. We discuss the oversimplification of reshoring manufacturing to the US and the political rhetoric around it. We also explore the role of supply chains in reducing global conflicts, despite current tensions. _____________________ Follow Cameron on substack: _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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167. Frank Tsai: Careful When Opening
02/18/2025
167. Frank Tsai: Careful When Opening
Frank Tsai is the largest organizer of public lectures in Shanghai. He is the founder of China Crossroads, hosting public talks on "China and the World" where he invites senior figures in academia, politics, business and foreign affairs. He formerly worked at The Economist, and Control Risks, the top global risk consultancy. He is an American with a background teaching geopolitical risk analysis and international media. Today we talk passionately about a wide range of topics, including societal biases towards extroverts, the evolving socio-political landscape in China, and U.S. President Donald Trump. We talk about cycles of tightening and opening in national policies and society, the low bar for some China “experts”, and why media and public figures speak in hyperbole. We explore the framework of U.S. and China relations, exit plans, and global stability. Frank also reflects on America under Trump, the loss of civic education and the weakening global perception of American democracy. The conversation wraps up with a critique of the “melting pot” ideal, exploring the tension between individualism and unity in both China and America. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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166. Steve Shi: The Art of Aggression
02/11/2025
166. Steve Shi: The Art of Aggression
Steve Shi is one of China’s leading psychotherapists and host of the 史蒂夫说 podcast. He returns to discuss Inner Wild, his unique project that combines boxing with mental health discussions. We talk about young professionals and couples grappling with pressures of modern society and the importance of physical contact, controlled aggression and building emotional resilience. We examine the societal effects of emotional suppression in Chinese culture, exploring its ties to economic struggles and violence among disenfranchised individuals. The conversation also touches on vulnerability, human connection, and the challenges of adapting to a less intimate world. We reflect on finding balance between optimism and pessimism in an uncertain future. Finally, we share our own violent fantasies and discuss the meanings behind them. This episode offers an inspiring look at mental health, culture, and personal growth. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: Red Note: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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165. Gabor Holch: On The Beach
01/25/2025
165. Gabor Holch: On The Beach
As we head into Chinese New Year, return guest and intercultural leadership coach Gabor Holch joins Justin and Aric for a thought-provoking conversation on self-reflection, leadership, and the human condition. Gabor shares how gratitude and perspective helped him overcome recent challenges while embracing the freedom of self-employment. Together, we explore the impact of AI on work, the influence of parenting styles on personal development, the roots of envy and why the grass always seems greener on the other side. Gabor emphasizes the importance of questioning beliefs, practicing humility, and fostering open-mindedness to bridge cultural divides, especially regarding perceptions of China. Packed with Gabor’s insights and stories, this episode offers practical wisdom for anyone looking to grow as a leader and individual. Happy new year... _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: Join Us On WeChat: THD_Official 小红书: THD The Honest Drink Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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164. Dr Stewart Desson, Yimin Wang & Jonathan Cannon
11/19/2024
164. Dr Stewart Desson, Yimin Wang & Jonathan Cannon
Dr. Stewart Desson is a leading expert in psychometrics and the developer of the renowned personality assessment, Lumina Spark. His approach is a blend of the “analytical” and the “humanistic” for personal and organizational development. He is also on the board of the Association for Business Psychology (ABP) and is the CEO of Lumina Learning. Yimin Wang is a personality development and leadership coach. He is one of the highest certified people development coaches in China, the CEO of Sense Consulting and a Global Partner of Lumina Learning. Jonathan Cannon is a certified business psychologist working in psychometrics. He is responsible for the research & development of Lumina Learning and its core psychometric assessments. Today we talk about the challenges of personality stereotypes, psychological & neuro diversity and the impact of psychometric assessment tools on personal development and organizational culture. We talk about the prevalence of bias and labeling in traditional psychometric tools and society, particularly the overvaluation of extroversion. We talk about the need for a more inclusive approach in recruitment and hiring practices and explore the strengths associated with different neurodivergent traits. We also talk about improving relationships, managing conflicts, our sense of control over our lives, what it takes to actually change our personalities, and if thats even possible. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: Join Us On WeChat: THD_Official 小红书: THD The Honest Drink Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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163. Layla Chen: Tom's Dog
11/05/2024
163. Layla Chen: Tom's Dog
Layla Chen is an English content creator and solopreneur. She was formerly a trained actor in theatre and film in the UK. Currently, she provides online training and coaching in English pronunciation, voice and public speaking to native Chinese around the world. She graduated from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama at the University of London with a masters in screen acting. She was also selected to be a leading international figure in the Forbes Global Alliance in 2024. Today we talk about the role of language in our lives. From language learning, miscommunication, cultural differences, dating and marriage. Layla shares her experiences moving to the UK despite not speaking English, the challenges of fitting-in to a new culture and the impact it had when she returned to China. We talk about communication styles and high-context vs low-context societies. The conversation touches on the pressures of marriage in modern Chinese society, the evolving dynamics of relationships and expectations for gender roles. We also talk about dating in the West vs China, the influence of social media on dating culture and how to know when you’ve met “the right person”. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: Join Us On WeChat: THD_Official 小红书: THD The Honest Drink Find us on: Spotify, Apple, Google Podcasts, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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