The Honest Drink
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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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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162. Closing The Loop
09/24/2024
162. Closing The Loop
Today we talk about the psychology of texting, jumping to conclusions, and if we’re destined to repeat the same failures in life. We talk about text message etiquette, the psychology behind quick responses, slow responses and no responses, and “closing the loop” with people we have unintentionally ignored. We talk about jumping to conclusions and making assumptions about others and their intentions. We explore the idea of accepting oneself as is versus constantly struggling to change in the name of personal growth. We talk about fixating on failure versus success, being overly self-critical versus blindly overconfident and the role of luck. _____________________ 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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161. Ethan Robertson (Wheelsboy, Chinese car reviewer)
09/12/2024
161. Ethan Robertson (Wheelsboy, Chinese car reviewer)
Ethan Robertson is the host of Wheelsboy 车轮哥, a channel dedicated to offering independent reviews of Chinese cars. His videos have over a million subscribers and are available on YouTube and all mainstream Chinese platforms. Today we talk about the electric vehicle (EV) industry in China, including the rise of Chinese EV brands, the challenges they face globally, their competitiveness, shortcomings, environmental impact and the future outlook of the industry. Ethan provides insights into the rapid growth, value proposition, and user experience offered by domestic brands. Ethan also touches upon the challenges faced by the big foreign legacy automakers in China, their declining sales, and the marketing strategies employed by Chinese automakers as they attempt to expand globally. Ethan shares his personal experiences as a car reviewer in China, including his commuting habits, interactions with car manufacturers, maintaining objectivity in his reviews, and his perspective as an American in the Chinese EV industry. YouTube: @wheelsboy Instagram: Wheelsboy_auto _____________________ 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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160. Brian Wong (on political rhetoric, democracy, AI)
09/04/2024
160. Brian Wong (on political rhetoric, democracy, AI)
Dr. Brian Wong is a Rhodes Scholar, geopolitical strategist, tech advisor, author and Assistant Professor in Philosophy at the University of Hong Kong. His research examines the intersection of geopolitics, political and moral philosophy, and technology. Brian co-founded and now advises the Oxford Political Review and currently serves as a Fellow and Advisor at the Oxford Global Society, an independent think-tank. He is also a Fellow at the Centre on Contemporary China and the World and is the Founding Secretary of Citizen Action Design, a youth policy think-tank based in Hong Kong. Today we talk about the role of rhetoric and manufactured outrage in politics, the challenges of implementing true democracy, and the rise of AI. We critique the notion of democracy as a panacea, and discuss a nuanced approach to governance in a multipolar world. We dive into the current state of American politics, the factors contributing to the disillusionment and frustration among segments of the population, and cultural grievances weaponized by political elites. We talk about AI and its potential impact on jobs and employment. Brian expresses concern about the potential appointment of hawkish individuals in a Trump administration, exacerbating tensions and volatility in US-China relations. He also expresses hope that the younger generations in both countries can help bridge divides. _____________________ 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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159. Cymri Chang: The Human Race
08/22/2024
159. Cymri Chang: The Human Race
Cymri Chang is a Creative Producer and friend of the show. Today we discuss the human race, whether it's as a species, a political race or literally racing in the Olympics. We talk about if continuing the human species is important to us. We present cases for and against humanity and its impact on itself and all other living things. We talk about ancestry tests and recount our experience on the day of 9/11. We talk about the US presidential election and candidates like RFK Jr and Kamala Harris's Vice President nominee Tim Walz. We also talk about the Paris Olympics, the controversy around the Chinese swim team, Pan Zhanle, and the systems in which countries produce and incentivize Olympic athletes. _____________________ 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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158. Jorge Castellanos (Stand-up comedian, Mamahuhu)
08/13/2024
158. Jorge Castellanos (Stand-up comedian, Mamahuhu)
Jorge Castellanos is a stand-up comedian and was a member of the sketch comedy group Mamahuhu, a popular YouTube series. He is also the owner of the Shanghai bar called BnC. He has performed with some of the biggest comedians like Mark Normand, Kyle Kinane and Jim Gaffigan. Today we talk about Jorge’s experience as a comedian in China, navigating censorship, and insights from hosting famous American comedians when they visit China for the first time. We talk about Mamahuhu and its impact on his life in Shanghai. We get into Jorge’s family background as refugees and his father’s experience as a Cuban political prisoner. We talk about expat life in Shanghai, cultural differences and compare things you can’t do or say between China and the US. We share stories on leaving America and the significance of living abroad. Jorge tells us a revealing story about the time he worked at PETA. We also talk about personal struggles with anxiety, self-doubt and relentless inner-voices. _____________________ 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.
/episode/index/show/thehonestdrink/id/32557042
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157. Danny Hu (on triathlons, health, lifestyle)
08/06/2024
157. Danny Hu (on triathlons, health, lifestyle)
Danny Hu is the CEO of WeCycle and started the largest triathlon community in China. His platform, STC大铁, has gone from a few hundred people to over 100k members and has helped organize 300+ triathlons and other active events across China. Today, in the spirit of the Olympics, we talk to Danny about how he got convinced to enter his first triathlon. We talk about how he taught himself how to swim, his approach to living and his keys to a healthy lifestyle. We discuss his business around community and cycling. Why he encourages everybody to ride a bike and why women have the most important influence on the success of his business and the active lifestyle industry. We also talk about the new wave of active sporting culture in China and his suggestions for some changes in urban planning to help those who want to keep it moving. _____________________ 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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156. Daniel Bateman: "The Game, Confidence, Rejection"
07/23/2024
156. Daniel Bateman: "The Game, Confidence, Rejection"
Daniel Bateman is a content creator of his own social media channel @baidehan focused on being British, business and lifestyle in China. He is also the host of the "Panda Profits Podcast" and the founder of Brit Bridge, a global consultancy and marketing company. Today we talk about the book "The Game" by Neil Strauss and how it helped Daniel gain confidence in approaching women, dating, and conducting business. We talk about the awkwardness of starting conversations with strangers and the value of being direct, taking initiative, and why we should always be opening. We discuss dating apps, role models, and the fine line between confidence and being a creep. We talk about social media personalities, toxic ideology and social order in the UK and China. We also get into the bumpy ride of maintaining chemistry and resolving conflict when co-hosting a podcast. _____________________ 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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155. Ben Cavender: "Chinese Brands, Economy, US Election, AI"
07/16/2024
155. Ben Cavender: "Chinese Brands, Economy, US Election, AI"
Ben Cavender is the Managing Director and Head of Strategy with the China Market Research Group (CMR). He helps Fortune 500 companies strengthen their brands positions and presence in China's consumer market. He frequently speaks internationally on innovation, technology, economics and consumer trends. He is frequently quoted and interviewed by news outlets including The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, New York Times, Economist, Forbes, Business Insider, BBC, CNN, CNBC, and Channel News Asia. Ben also conducts guest lectures for select MBA and corporate programs such as Harvard Business School. Today we talk about China's economic situation, the rise of domestic Chinese brands, US trade tensions, the impact of AI, the upcoming US presidential election, and raising children in the digital age. _____________________ 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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154. Tilman Rieger (on Psychological Safety)
06/25/2024
154. Tilman Rieger (on Psychological Safety)
Tilman Rieger is a conflict mediator, interpersonal and cross-cultural communication expert. He is the founder of 8C Consulting and an expert in the fields of nonviolent communication, transactional analysis, positive intelligence and team building. Today we talk about psychological safety in groups, at work and in society. We learn about creating environments where individuals feel safe to take risks, make mistakes and speak honestly and critically to each other without becoming defensive. We talk about the idea of taking responsibility for how we feel instead of blaming others. We also examine the cultural differences between Western and Chinese cultures on communication styles, power dynamics and the perception of directness. We touch on concepts such as the VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous) world and stages of team development (forming, storming, norming, performing). In an increasingly complicated world we talk about the challenges of sensitivity to feedback, accountability, culture, trust, honesty, and productive communication. _____________________ Connect with Tilman | www.8c-consulting.com _____________________ 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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153. Justin Hourn (on Fitness & Longevity)
06/18/2024
153. Justin Hourn (on Fitness & Longevity)
Justin Hourn is the head coach and co-founder of Refuge Martial Arts. He is a BJJ black belt, former Australian national wrestling team athlete, international kickboxer, Tedx speaker and youth health & fitness speaker. Today we talk about fitness trends, wellness, purpose and overcoming adversity. We talk about purposely not preparing for things so we can react genuinely in the moment. We talk about keeping fit as we age and the shift from intense workouts like CrossFit to a focus on low-impact exercises and overall wellness and longevity. We also talk about Justin's journey to China growing up in one of Australia's most dangerous towns, being raised by a single mom, and protecting against an absent father. We talk about the importance of role models and community on physical and mental well-being, especially during childhood. Stay connected with "Coach Justin" on social media _____________________ 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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152. 3 Bodies Many Problems
06/04/2024
152. 3 Bodies Many Problems
Today we talk about the “3 Body Problem”, AI and finding jobs. We talk about the controversy over the Western adaptation of the show from the original Chinese science fiction novel “The Three-Body Problem” and where the limits might be for cultural appropriation. The conversation shifts to the topic of AI and we debate how much we should really think about it in our daily lives. We also talk about job hunting and share stories from some of our early jobs and the lessons we learned doing them...if we learned anything at all. _____________________ 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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151. King Kwesi (China as an African)
05/21/2024
151. King Kwesi (China as an African)
King Kwesi is a vlogger, street interviewer and English teacher from Ghana, living in China. His YouTube Channel documents his experiences as an African interacting in Chinese society. Today we talk about his background from Ghana, growing up in a polygamous family, and his experience living in China as an African. We talk about why he started the YouTube channel, his perspective on China’s development and how he feels about certain comments and attacks he gets for his videos. We discuss Africa and China’s presence in Africa as we hear his thoughts on benefits, exploitation, colonialization and debt. We talk about the perception of Africa and China in Western media and films. We talk about cultural unity and diversity and his experiences with racism, prejudice and how we measure our own quality of life. We also talk about why he chooses to remain in China, whats difficult about it, and why he hopes his channel can foster more understanding. _____________________ 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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150. Andrea Fenn: "The Great Digital Leap"
05/06/2024
150. Andrea Fenn: "The Great Digital Leap"
Andrea Fenn is an award-winning digital strategist and the CEO of Adiacent, a global digital transformation company. He was a founding member of the APAC social media team at Ogilvy, a researcher of Chinese social media at Leiden University, and a former journalist for CNN and China Daily. He has lived 18 years in China working with the country’s evolving digital landscape. Today we talk about the birth and rise of China’s digital age. We talk about when the first Western social media platforms were blocked, how China leapfrogged traditional technologies, and why Chinese society was so quick to embrace the digital world. We talk about social media’s impact on the health and development of children, and debate the merits of government intervention. We discuss China’s approach to regulating the digital economy, breaking up tech giants, and moderating consumerism as we explore the rationale behind its policies, the trade-offs, and the challenges on its unique development path in a digital world. _____________________ 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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149. Dylan Briley: "Death & Cooking"
04/16/2024
149. Dylan Briley: "Death & Cooking"
Dylan Briley is the Head Chef at Crush, former Sous Chef at Mr & Mrs Bund, and former chef at Goga in Shanghai. He is also an artist, culinary consultant and DJ. Today we talk about digital addiction, self-hate and his experiences working in the restaurant industry, both in the US and China. He recounts a pivotal moment when he had a heart attack while working at a restaurant in Shanghai and shares a story of the time he ruined a steak for an American President. We discuss the challenges he faced adapting to the different management styles and cultural norms in Chinese kitchens, being the most hated person in the room, as well as the stress and self-doubt he experienced early in his career in China. Dylan reflects on the importance of finding balance, being true to oneself, and embracing opportunities for personal growth. Bon Appétit. _____________________ 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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148. Yimin Wang: "The Personality Trap"
04/10/2024
148. Yimin Wang: "The Personality Trap"
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 the Global Partner of Lumina Learning. Today we explore the Lumina Spark personality assessment which measures your various personality traits and qualities. We talk about the concept of paradox in personality, where individuals can exhibit seemingly contradictory traits in different situations. We talk about the importance of empathy and its role in leadership, communication and relationships. We also get into the spectrum of accommodating versus tough personalities and how it affects conflict resolution, the value of diversity in teams and the tendency to hire people who are similar to yourself. We talk about nature vs nurture and its influence on our social development, the benefits of self-awareness to improve personal and professional relationships, and how we can get out of the box and avoid being trapped in our assumed personalities. _____________________ 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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147. James Hsu: "The Art of Being Yourself"
03/12/2024
147. James Hsu: "The Art of Being Yourself"
James Hsu is an entrepreneur, podcaster and advisor. He helps people through the mental and emotional side of entrepreneurship and on the topic of authenticity. Today we talk about the struggle to be ourselves and pretending to be someone we're not, both in social situations and at work. We talk about how we are affected by politics and news. We talk about why James decided he can't work in large companies anymore, and some difficult lessons about people and relationships he's learned being an entrepreneur. We also talk about how our Asian self-identity has changed since living in China compared to our peers in America and Canada. _____________________ _____________________ 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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146. Dawn Wong: "All Joking Aside"
02/20/2024
146. Dawn Wong: "All Joking Aside"
Dawn Wong is a Stand-Up Comedian in Shanghai. Today we talk about stand-up comedy in China. We discuss censorship, cancel culture and the differences between doing comedy for Chinese and Western audiences. We talk about gender equality, her influences growing up, and her thoughts on Asian men’s taste in women and porn. We also talk about how female comedians are perceived in China vs the West, cultural differences in humor, and how Chinese crowds react when you "bomb". _____________________ 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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