The Bangkok Podcast

Greg begins by explaining that a trip to the Chonburi Buffalo Festival got him thinking about the strange and special place animals hold in Thai culture, what with an entire festival built around an animal whose name is often used as an insult. The hosts agree to skip obvious examples like elephants and monkeys and dive right in with the water buffalo, once the engine of the rice economy. Ed points out an urban and rural divide, since the buffalo is revered in the countryside while Bangkokians use the word khwai as an insult. Comparisons to North American bison lead Greg into a tangent about Head-Smashed-In Buffalo Jump in Alberta. It's a real place, look it up.

Next, Greg turns to the house gecko, or jing jok, whose chirping as you leave home is taken as a warning, and Ed confirms his students still believe this. They then discuss the larger tokay, which appears in lullabies threatening restless children with having their livers eaten, prompting Ed to recall a girlfriend teasing her daughter that foreigners eat children's livers.

The hosts go on to fighting roosters and a legend linking them to King Naresuan, then the Siamese cat and the lucky black cat, and the Siamese fighting fish, which reached Western science as a gift from King Rama III. Ed then raises the water monitor, whose Thai name is a serious insult. Finally, Greg introduces mythical creatures, including the naga, a legged look-alike often confused with it, and the Garuda, Thailand's national emblem.

Greg interviews old friend of the podcast Rikker Dockum, Thai language expert extraordinaire about the Thai Royal Society, an organization dedicated to overseeing, promoting and regulating the Thai language. Rikker begins by explaining that he actually wrote his undergraduate thesis on the Society more than 20 years ago, so he's a longstanding follower of their work. He notes that it originally modelled itself after the French Academy, which, among other things, develops French words for English equivalents.

For instance, Greg brings up the issue of the word 'computer,' which is typically spoken in Thai as 'com-pu-TER,' even though the Institute has specified a true Thai word for the computer. Rikker goes through the etymology of the word, but Greg asks whether the work of the Institute is even necessary if people don't adopt the words they come up with. Rikker defends the use of public funds for work codifying 'official' Thai, noting that were it left to the private marketplace, the work would never get done.

The old friends continue their conversation about the Institute, emphasizing the need for such an organization for a language like Thai, which is vital to the history and culture of Thailand, but plays little role outside the country. Very few languages in the world are so popularly dominant that their continued preservation is assured, and unfortunately, Thai language is not one of them.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Bangkok has produced roughly nine billion stories about food. Street food. Michelin food. Hidden food. Grandma's-secret-recipe food. Food you absolutely must eat before you die, leave town, or apparently lose all credibility as a human being.

But what if you live here and you just don't feel like Thai food tonight?

Greg and Ed wander off the usual culinary path to talk about what long-term expats actually eat after twenty-five years in Bangkok, once the honeymoon period with pad kra pao has settled into something closer to a very comfortable marriage. Greg reckons about half his diet is still Thai. Ed eats it even more often, although these days fried rice and pad see ew barely register as "Thai food" to him at all. They're just dinner.

Which means the real treats are often somewhere else.

Burmese tea leaf salad from a tiny place near the office. Lebanese food around Sukhumvit Soi 3/1. Japanese ramen and sushi hidden in plain sight. Italian food with a faint whiff of Cleveland nostalgia. And, inevitably, Indian food from the kind of restaurant where the lighting is questionable, the furniture has seen things, and the meal turns out to be spectacular.

They also admit an inconvenient truth: even in one of the best eating cities on Earth, it's remarkably easy to become boring. Same restaurants. Same dishes. Same order. Sometimes the only thing standing between you and a brilliant new meal is a friend saying, "Trust me, just come."

Because Bangkok's secret weapon may not be Thai food at all. It may be that this city can feed almost any craving, from almost anywhere, often down a soi you've walked past a hundred times without noticing.

After visiting a rooftop bar with one of the most spectacular views in Bangkok, the boys discuss what the evolution and growth of the sky-high drinking/photo establishments says about the evolution and growth of Bangkok itself.

Greg begins by framing rooftop bars as a barometer of Bangkok's health, since they require investment, density, tourism, and confidence, and he notes that today's bars compete over who can claim the most dramatic view. Ed clarifies that the two hosts are jeans and t-shirt guys who care about views rather than trendiness. He recalls that when they first arrived, Sirocco at State Tower, made famous by The Hangover Part II, was nearly the only notable option, whereas Bangkok now ranks alongside New York and Dubai as a top rooftop city.

Next, Greg describes a recent work evening at Le Du Kaan atop The Empire on Sathorn. He was struck that a bar set well back from the river could offer such a sweeping view, looking across at Mahanakhon at sunset, and that Baiyoke Tower, once the city's must-visit landmark, now looked small and distant. The hosts agree its neighborhood seems frozen in time, and Greg adds that even Moon Bar at the Banyan Tree is renovating to keep up with the competition.

Ed then offers his photography advice. He recommends arriving well before sunset, framing the snaking bends of the Chao Phraya, seeking out Bangkok's spectacular cloud formations, and contrasting modern towers with temples like Wat Arun or older Chinese and European buildings. Greg shares a favorite shot of a small temple with State Tower looming behind it. Finally, the hosts discuss the abandoned Ghost Tower and the old trend of sneaking inside to take pictures.

Hey, remember when the visa rules changed, making us all learn entirely new procedures and protocols? No, the other time. No, the other…no, not that one, the other time.

Greg begins by discussing the latest tightening of Thailand's entry rules, especially the reduction of visa-exempt stays from sixty days back to thirty. He and Ed use the change to illustrate a broader problem for foreigners: Thai immigration rules are constantly evolving, and advice that was accurate only a few months ago may already be obsolete.

Ed then argues that Thailand remains welcoming to visitors, but the old atmosphere of loosely enforced rules seems to be fading. The guys connect that shift partly to highly publicized cases of foreigners behaving badly and partly to a wider push by Thai authorities to enforce laws more literally. They stress that foreigners increasingly need to understand exactly what their visa permits rather than relying on what people historically got away with.

Next, Greg and Ed discuss the traditional visa system, including the Non-B route for people working in Thailand and the awkward position of remote workers who were technically working while entering under other categories. They then examine the Destination Thailand Visa, designed partly for digital nomads and people pursuing approved "soft power" activities. They discuss its long validity, repeated six-month stays, and financial requirements.

Toward the end, Ed explains recent changes making the DTV harder to obtain, including tighter residence requirements and criminal-record documentation. The overall message is that foreigners now need better planning, current information, and stricter compliance with the rules.

Utilizing a topic suggested by listener Wes, Greg and Ed discuss the unwritten 'rules' of Thai culture - the ones that everyone knows but aren't written down anywhere, despite Ed wishing they were because he really has no idea what he's doing right and wrong! As Greg notes, we all have to fake it until we make it.

Greg then begins a series of specific puzzles that farangs have to navigate, including the proper use of the expletive 'arai wa,' knowing when or how much to lower your head when passing in front of someone, trying to determine the correct use of 'nong' and 'phee' when interacting with a stranger of indeterminate age, and how to wai someone when your hands are otherwise occupied.

The guys discuss each puzzle, but Ed notes his overarching problem: what to do when Thai people treat him as a foreigner and don't follow Thailand's cultural norms. Should farangs follow Thai rules when Thais don't? No one knows! But Greg and Ed agree that the impact of these difficulties is lessened by Thais flexibility and general forgiving nature. So do your best out there fellow expats, but don't worry about it too much. It's all 'mai pen rai' in the end. :)

"Wellness" is a huge industry, and especially in Thailand, so the boys decide this week to discuss the options that are available.

Ed begins the main segment by noting that while he expected it to be straightforward, he discovered an overwhelming variety of retreats and treatments. Greg chimes in to express his general distaste for the wellness trend, explaining that he associates it with bougie treatments that sell real results wrapped in woo-woo hype, and that a relaxing holiday sitting by a swimming pool may result in the same outcomes. However, Ed counters by explaining his genuine desire to return from a vacation feeling physically and mentally improved.

Next, Ed walks through the different levels of wellness holidays available. He starts with the basic tier, which involves booking a standard luxury hotel and adding a specialized wellness package that includes healthy meals and spa visits. Then, he describes the next level up, consisting of dedicated wellness resorts. These facilities strip away typical vacation distractions to focus completely on specialized treatments, ranging from acupuncture to customized fitness routines.

Finally, Ed brings up the ultimate luxury tier, mentioning an incredibly expensive resort that employs elite professionals to provide personalized health programs. Ed and Greg also touch upon budget-friendly alternatives, such as island yoga camps, though they note these lack luxurious amenities. The discussion wraps up with both hosts agreeing that despite some scientifically questionable treatments, a structured environment leaves most guests feeling genuinely rejuvenated.

Greg begins by discussing the late Bangkok street artist Khun Pichai, whose intricate and cryptic sidewalk scribbles across the capital attained a devoted cult following over the years, with sightings of his mysterious, sprawling artworks treated like discovered treasures. If you don't know who Khun Picha was, watch this excellent short documentary to get an idea.

Many people dismissed Khun Pichai's art as "crazy" or "nonsense" but we think there was something else there. So, we harnessed the power of AI to give us some insight, and perhaps find details that we simply were not able to see. Ed reflects on the artist's complex background, observing that Khun Pichai seemed to possess a rich internal life that found raw expression through public city surfaces.

Next, Greg walks through the artificial intelligence interpretations of several individual pieces - find them on our website if you'd like to follow along. The software explains that the seemingly chaotic drawings actually repurpose utility meter readouts, bureaucratic paperwork, radio schematics, and Thai consonants treated like algebraic variables. Ed points out that Khun Pichai famously considered his sketches to be investigative notes and evidence rather than conventional art, demonstrating an intensely focused technical mindset.

Moving forward, Greg shifts the focus to other Bangkok subjects evaluated by artificial intelligence. Greg explains how the software analyzed a city map, attributing notorious traffic congestion to modern roadways that haphazardly traced ancient canals rather than planned survey grids (no surprise, but still pretty on the money). Ed and Greg then explore the program's evaluation of longtail boat mechanics, highlighting why repurposed car engines and long propeller shafts remain ideal for narrow waterways. Greg concludes the exercise by sharing an artificial intelligence comparison of Lumphini and Benjakitti parks, contrasting early European landscape ideals with contemporary ecological design.

While using the cold, inhuman logic of an AI to analyze the warm, squishy creativity that flowed from a human mind might seem a bit gauche, AI is nonetheless a powerful tool that can uncover hidden details.

Moving to Thailand can be a disorienting, discombobulating experience, even if you're on your own. Now imagine doing it with 9 hours to prepare. That's what Vic Levitin and his family did, but the unknown and unplanned turned into something great - though not without its speed bumps.

Greg begins the interview by asking Vic about his sudden relocation to Koh Samui, where he lives full time. Vic explains that although he previously pitched moving to Asia, his wife opposed it until a war broke out in their home country. This crisis forced them to pack and fly to Thailand on incredibly short notice. Next, Vic describes the severe stress of their initial weeks living in limbo. He notes that their mindset shifted from temporary vacationers to permanent residents only when they purchased a couch, symbolizing their commitment to a new life. Vic then discusses how his family integrated by joining Thai boxing, enrolling their children in an international school where they quickly learned English, and building a supportive community of expatriates and locals. Later, Vic highlights the peace of escaping the corporate grind, though he acknowledges the financial pressures of raising a family abroad. He also shares his past experience running a company that released sterile mosquitoes to combat tropical diseases.

Following the interview, Greg and Ed reflect on the sheer intensity of relocating an entire family overnight. Greg compares the chaotic packing process to a stressful game show challenge. Ed and Greg express admiration for how Vic and his wife managed the psychological leap from merely escaping a conflict to intentionally building a grounded home. They agree that committing to buying heavy furniture was the ultimate turning point in his journey.

Greg begins by discussing a suggestion from their friend Scott to explore the origins of well-known street names in Bangkok. After briefly touching on familiar spots like Khaosan Road and Lumpini Park, Greg dives into the history of Sukhumvit Road. He notes it was originally a dirt track before being formally constructed and named after the fifth chief of the Department of Highways, who was notably the first Thai person to graduate from the storied MIT. They then confront a bit of trivia - is Sukhumvit actually the longest road in Thailand? Ed digs around online and finds that Phetkasem Highway is actually significantly longer than Sukhumvit.

Next, Greg brings up Wireless Road, explaining that it earned its name because it housed the very first radio telegraph station in Thailand. He mentions there is even a small museum built on the original foundations. Following this, Greg explains that the nearby Saladaeng area got its name from a red pavilion located at an old railway station.

Continuing their discussion, Greg reveals that Asok Road has ties to a famous Buddhist emperor named Ashoka, though it was officially named after a local landowner known as Asok Montri. He then shares that Phetchaburi Road is surprisingly named after a royal aunt rather than the province itself. Finally, Ed wraps up the historical segment by noting that Songwat Road translates to being drawn by a king, while the lengthy name Borommaratchachonnani honors a supreme royal mother.

Greg interviews Dax Ward, an adventurous photographer best known for his beautiful photos of dilapidated buildings and abandoned places. Dax begins by explaining that he was a very late starter to photography, getting a DSLR for the first time in 2015. After a random trip to the airplane graveyard down Ramkhamhaeng Road, he developed an affinity for shooting forgotten and abandoned places.

As it turns out, Thailand (and Bangkok in particular) are perfect places for this style of photography due to the number of unfinished construction projects from the financial crisis of the late 1990s. Additionally, there seem to be a surprising number of new business ventures in the area that fail for whatever reason or another, so there seems to be an endless supply of possible sites for Dax's style of photography.

The guys discuss how Dax discovers and gains access to his locations. It's surprising what a couple hundred baht here and there will do to the attitude of many Thai security guards! Dax then details his research methods and how he manages to build a compelling story around each set of photographs, something that many other photographers don't bother with.

In a world where almost everyone has the technology in their pocket to take a decent photo, Thailand is lucky to have an intrepid, creative photographer like Dax to show us how to do things right.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In another example of a thriving subculture in Bangkok you wouldn't expect to see, Greg and Ed interview Sunny Sachdev, a Thai Indian banjo player who is part of the informal network of musicians that drive Bangkok's local bluegrass music scene. Check out their page here.

Sunny explains that he discovered the genre through a video recommendation online and immediately felt drawn to the banjo, despite having no prior musical background.

Sunny details how he connected with the local community by attending a jam session at the Srinakarin Night Market. He shares the history of bluegrass, noting its origins in the Appalachian region as a blend of immigrant folk traditions and African instruments. Sunny then describes the unique local subculture, which includes a strong passion for vintage clothing, cowboy attire, and antique instruments salvaged from overseas.

Ed brings up the communal aspect of the music, and Sunny explains how jam sessions are highly inclusive, acoustic circles that eliminate typical stage fright. Sunny also highlights a specific bluegrass festival he organizes to bring these diverse musicians together.

Following the interview, Greg and Ed reflect on how fascinating it is to see such a niche American subculture thriving organically in Thailand. Ed mentions how teaching music history gave him a newfound appreciation for the genre, overcoming his past snobbery. Greg concludes their discussion by emphasizing that bluegrass represents true community music, designed to be shared collaboratively rather than just performed on a stage.

Inspired by recent discussion among friends, and Greg's switch to a new provider, the boys tackle the enduring issue of health insurance as an expat. There are many companies, many plans, and many pitfalls. Which one do you choose?

Ed begins by outlining the main geographic areas of coverage an expatriate must consider, which include coverage in Thailand, in their home country, and during international travel. He notes that many young people mistakenly skip buying health insurance, and while Thai medical care is relatively inexpensive, he strongly advises against going completely uninsured. Next, Greg shares his personal journey, explaining how he transitioned from an excellent corporate policy to a global plan that excluded the United States due to its exorbitant costs.

Ed brings up his own strategy, stating that he currently relies on a basic Thai government plan for minor health issues but desperately needs to find a policy that covers major catastrophic events. Greg then reveals that advancing in age caused his insurance premiums to drastically increase, which recently forced him to switch to a more affordable plan that only covers him within Thailand. He advises that many companies are willing to negotiate higher deductibles for lower premiums to help cover major disasters.

Later, Ed confesses he frequently travels back to America without any medical coverage, acknowledging the financial risk. He points out that an artificial intelligence program informed him that top Thai hospitals offer world class success rates for major surgeries, proving local healthcare is a smart choice for aging expatriates and coverage in the States might not be necessary.

Greg interviews Jared Rydelek, the creator of the Weird Explorer YouTube channel. Jared explains that his day job is a contortionist, but his lifelong vegetarianism sparked a deep fascination with rare fruits. He shares how this hobby evolved into a channel where he travels the globe to taste unique produce, discovering a surprisingly vast subculture of fruit enthusiasts. Jared notes that there are tens of thousands of edible fruits worldwide, far beyond the limited variety found in typical grocery stores.

Next, Greg asks Jared about his favorite fruits in Thailand. Jared highlights the snake fruit, noting that the Thai variety differs significantly from those in neighboring countries. He also expresses a strong preference for the yellow mangosteen. The conversation then takes an amusing turn when Jared recounts his encounters with fake or molded fruits. He describes tracking down a highly sought-after fruit only to realize it was a clever fake, eventually learning that seeking out older female vendors in local markets is the best way to find authentic and rare produce. A few other fruit-centric stories follow - who knew there could be so many different characters and wild hijinks in the fruit subculture?

Following the interview, Ed expresses admiration for Jared, noting that while he personally lacks the motivation to hunt down obscure foods, he respects the passion involved. Greg concludes by praising Jared for his dedication to exploring niche subcultures and promoting the area where agricultural and cultural knowledge overlap.

Greg and Ed tackle the uncomfortable topic of self-censorship in Thailand, especially as it pertains to the podcast itself, and the churning, roiling issue of what you can say, when, and how, which seem to be in the news every day.

Although it is unfortunate, the reality of working and living in Thailand is that the laws and culture are not the same as back home in the U.S. and Canada. Obviously, this means no discussion of the monarchy, and Ed explains how he always advises visiting friends to simply avoid discussion of the monarchy and royal family in pretty much any context. This is good advice for all foreigners in Thailand actually.

Second, the boys concur that although they do criticize the government broadly, they make sure not to name specific politicians or policymakers. Although technically no law forbids it, strong and pointed criticism of the Thai government has a way of ending up poorly for the critic, from sudden problems with your visa to (in extreme cases) outright disappearance. On a podcast that is not centered on political issues, it just ain't worth the risk, and while the guys feel comfortable critiquing the government broadly, that's about as far as they are willing to go.

Last, Greg and Ed discuss Thailand's defamation laws, which work differently than the laws back home where 'truth' is more or less an absolute defense. In Thailand, even if you say something true, you can be found guilty of violating another person's privacy. As Ed put it, Thailand has a 'mind your own business' culture, as opposed to the 'speak truth to power' culture we have back home.

All this being said, the guys admit that self-censorship is fairly rare and not really a problem for a podcast focused on the serious (and sometimes silly) aspects of living in Thailand as a foreigner.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

After a recent wave of news headlines highlighting government crackdowns on things as varied as fake paternity scams and cheating civil servants, Greg and Ed begin by asking whether Thailand is finally enforcing the rule of law in any meaningful way.

Greg points to changes in visa policy, noting that authorities reduced visa-free stays after discovering widespread abuse from visitors working illegally. Next, Ed brings up the crackdown on illegal nominee company ownership, pointing to cases where foreign nationals set up front businesses using fake Thai shareholders to bypass local laws.

Moving to healthcare scandals, Ed highlights an investigation into multiple hospitals involving a birth record scam where foreign women paid local men to falsely claim paternity. Greg then transitions to a massive cheating scandal in the civil service, where thousands of local officials face dismissal after paying bribes to pass government employment exams.

Next, the conversation turns to a tragic nightclub fire, which Greg uses to illustrate that while strict laws exist on paper, consistent enforcement remains a persistent problem without public pressure. Finally, Greg shares a personal experience to show that enforcement efforts may indeed be increasing. He describes how an immigration officer conducted an unexpected spot check at his office to verify his employment, forcing him to appear in person at the immigration bureau to prove his status, something he has never experienced during his decades in the country.

The guys conclude that something certainly SEEMS different about recent law enforcement efforts, but only time will tell if real change is afoot.

Ed interviews K. Khemthong Tonsakulrungruang, a constitutional lawyer and professor from Chulalongkorn University whose work bridges law and Buddhism. After Ed shares his own background as an American lawyer, the two men begin by discussing the modern relevance of Buddhist teachings. K. Khemthong explains that Buddhist mindfulness practices are more important than ever for combating the overwhelming distractions of smartphones and social media. They touch upon how both traditional and secular meditation retreats are increasingly popular for people seeking mental clarity in a chaotic world.

Next, Ed brings up Khemthong's academic focus, prompting a fascinating story about a former student who researched local political movements. The guest recounts how Thai protest leaders have historically invoked Buddhist concepts to justify anti-democratic actions. He explains that this political ideology emphasizes the purity of a leader's intentions rather than the strict legality of their actions, meaning that acting with a benevolent mind can supposedly excuse technically illegal political moves.

Finally, the conversation shifts to the intersection of religion and constitutional law in Thailand. They discuss how various iterations of the Thai constitution have handled the country's religious identity. K. Khemthong notes that while the government guarantees freedom of religion, it also holds a special duty to promote Buddhism. The interview concludes with an agreement that the state maintains a delicate, pragmatic balance to honor the nation's primary faith without marginalizing minority religions.

Greg and Ed explore the small, unexpected joys of being an expat living in Thailand. Ed begins the main discussion by sharing his amusement over miscommunications regarding his job. Despite teaching university-level political science, Thai people frequently assume he is a basic English teacher, an error he enjoys correcting.

Next, Greg discusses how he enjoys getting opted out of annoying situations due to his nationality. He notes that being a foreigner often grants him a free pass from sitting through tedious formal rituals or dealing with telemarketers who assume he does not speak Thai.

Ed then brings up the relief of geographical distance from his home country, explaining that living overseas allows him to avoid participating in stressful family drama back in America. Greg relates to this, adding that it lets him prioritize his immediate family.

Continuing the conversation, Greg brings up his appreciation for the language barrier, which acts as a natural shield allowing him to completely tune out noisy local advertisements and background chatter. Next, Ed notes that he gets a surprising amount of unearned respect and admiration from locals simply for being an American citizen. Finally, Greg concludes the topic by admitting he loves taking advantage of low fashion expectations for foreigners, happily running errands in comfortable, unkempt clothing without feeling self-conscious about his appearance. Thanks, skeezeballs!

On the heels of a recent episode where Greg and Ed opined on the nuances of the tricky Bangkok property market, this time they have a real, er… real estate pro on to get into things from her POV - Tracy Leelalamlert from Aspire Real Estate.

Greg begins by discussing with Tracy whether buying a condo in the city is a good investment. Tracy explains that it depends on the buyer's purpose, noting that rental properties typically yield around four percent annually. Next, Ed brings up the issue of transparency in the Thai property market. Tracy confirms that unlike Western countries, Thailand lacks public records of actual sale prices, meaning buyers must do their own research or hire valuation companies to find accurate market values.

The conversation then shifts to the massive oversupply of empty condos. Greg wonders why prices do not decrease to meet demand. Tracy points out that wealthy Thai owners often feel no financial pressure to sell, preferring to pass properties down to their children rather than lower the asking price. She also mentions that wealthy foreign buyers sometimes buy units simply to safely park their money outside their home countries, an isue certainly not unique to Thailand.

Later, Ed asks if a foreigner should rent or buy a place. Tracy strongly recommends renting for the flexibility it offers, reserving buying for those making a long-term commitment.

Greg and Ed wrap up the episode by reflecting on the interview, agreeing that Tracy handled their tough questions well and understands the complicated local market about as well as anyone can - and that's saying a lot!

Thanks to a suggestion from a listener Greg and Ed discuss the fascinating topic of games that are common - if not unique - to Thailand. Both guys have some familiarity with some games played in public such as 'takraw,' but many of the others are part of this strange world called 'Thai culture' that the guys apparently don't actually know that well.

Greg begins with a children's game in which one child sings a song while counting by syllable on another child's hand. When the singer stops on a finger, that finger is taken out of the game. The child with the last finger in is the winner. Greg even plays a cute clip of a video of the game.

Next, Greg explains a Thai game very similar to the Western game of 'jacks,' which although relatively unplayed by children back home, still lives on in a Thai derivative.

The boys then go deep into the Thai version of chess, called makruk (หมากรุก), which utilizes the same board and pieces but with modifying moving rules for each piece. This game is a quite famous pastime of Thai motorcycle riders, who can often be seen playing the game on the side of the road while awaiting customers. It should be noted that Ed's friend - a noted chess lover - was broken by makruk, giving up in frustration after trying to tame the wild beast.

Greg continues with several more Thai games, from the crazy sport of takraw, which is kind of like soccer and volleyball mixed together with a wicker ball, to bizarre practices such as beetle fighting, popular in the Northeast, and a game where you throw seeds with your knees. We also check in with a friend of Greg's who owns Golden Goblin Games to hear about the role-playing side of things.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Inspired by an unusually long commute, the boys decide to discuss a list of things - very specific things - that bother Greg while he drives his trusty silver Honda around Bangkok.

Greg begins by sharing his first major annoyance with Bangkok drivers, which is their complete disregard for pedestrian crosswalks, forcing people to sprint across the road. Next, he brings up the severe impatience at intersections, where drivers wedge themselves into perpendicular traffic even when there is no room, entirely blocking the flow. Following this, Greg expresses his frustration with luxury malls reserving premium parking spaces exclusively for 'supercars', a practice both hosts find incredibly elitist and ridiculous. After all, how do you define 'super'? Greg thinks his Honda is pretty super, but he bets the guard at Icon Siam will disagree.

The conversation then shifts to the tendency of local drivers to swing out into the second lane and make wide left turns. Greg admits he has actually started doing this himself as a defensive tactic against blind corners and weaving motorcycles. After that, he points out the dangerous and aggressive driving habits of delivery workers in heavily modified, caged pickup trucks.

The list continues - hazards lights at intersections, customized license plates, and finally the one rule to rule them all - if everyone actually followed the traffic laws in Bangkok, it would probably be way more dangerous.

Ed concludes by noting Greg has done an excellent job of explaining why he (Ed) rarely drives in Bangkok!

In this episode, Greg interviews legendary foreign correspondent Denis Gray about his memoir, Lost Horizons. Denis details his fascinating life story, beginning with his family's escape from communist Czechoslovakia and his father's subsequent intelligence work for the CIA. After graduating from Yale, Gray served in the U.S. Army during the Vietnam War, an intense experience that inspired his transition into journalism with the Associated Press.

The next few decades saw Denis covering critical global conflicts, focusing heavily on the Indochina wars. He highlights the extreme challenges of reporting on the Khmer Rouge genocide from the Thai-Cambodian border, noting how a lack of visual media at the time left these historical atrocities largely forgotten by the wider world.

Greg and Ed then discuss the immense psychological weight of Gray's memories. Ed expresses a mix of awe and relief, admitting he is glad he never had to face such immense dangers himself. Ultimately, both hosts agree that Gray's career represents a rare, vanishing breed of war correspondence, emphasizing the vital importance of preserving these profound, first-hand historical accounts.

For a more visual discussion, see a video of Dennis' book launch and Q&A at the Foreign Correspondent's Club here in Bangkok.

With Ed unavailable this week, Greg welcomes his friend John as co-host to talk about storytelling. Specifically, the difference between how westerners tell stories, and how Thais tell stories. This is especially apropos to John, as he is the creator of Bangkok Stories, an event that, unsurprisingly, showcases the talents of locals who tell tales for an audience.

The discussion is at turns funny, insightful and sometimes dark, as Greg and John analyze storytelling styles to see what they tell us about the cultures behind them. Ultimately, as Thai culture is not a "look at me" one, this informs how eager most Thais are at getting up in front of strangers to talk. Add to this the concept of losing face and/or displeasing family members and those perceived of being of a higher status, and you have a complex mix of inspirations and motivations.

Greg sees a parallel in how difficult it is for him and Ed to find Thai guests to come on the show. Obviously English-language proficiency is a big barrier, but they have asked many over the years who are reluctant in case they say something disagreeable and lose face, which could bring shame on them, their family - or worse - their boss.

This eventually leads into a discussion of the ongoing Psi-Scott drama, which sees the taboo against shaming families with public accusations taken to a disturbing extreme.

When it comes to characters, Bangkok has them in droves - people who have been places, eaten things, talked to people, and lived adventures that would make your mother put her hand to her mouth and proclaim, "Oh my" with a frightened little squeak. On this episode of the Bangkok Podcast we're happy to have one of these epic characters on the show with us - Mr Alan Platt, who, as it happens, has just released a book about his adventures entitled Foreign Fool.

Now I know what you're thinking, and it's the same thing we think when we hear self-published book by a farang in Bangkok, and that is, "Oh, yes, another one for the dusty back section of Asia Books, along with all the stories about hard-boiled detectives, heart-of-gold prostitutes, and love gone bad." But no - that's not what this book is about at all. In fact, take it from me (Greg), who has read the book - this is one hell of a fun read, and is actually - get this - really well written. From Saigon to Bangkok to Panama to London to Honolulu, Foreign Fool tells of, as Alan puts it, the bumbling misadventures of a doofus. I'll just let the first two paragraphs of the first chapter say it themselves:

In Saigon, many years after the war was over, long after the city was declared safe for tourists and when even the hookers were becoming almost discreet, I was kidnapped. That does sound a bit dramatic, I admit. Technically, it was more an abduction. But however one puts it, any mention of that sort of thing floods the mind with images of some poor guy being jumped by thugs, bundled into the trunk of a car and splattered across the tabloids with a screech of tires and the burning of rubber. None of that happened to me. I was kidnapped on a bicycle.

Alan discusses how he went from sunning his broke ass on a Los Angeles beach to the top of the New York ad world, how the book took shape, and a few of the stories - both in the book and not - that keep him looking ahead to the next trip. Buy Foreign Fool on Amazon.

The issue of Thai nominees has heated up in the past little while, with daily news stories about crackdowns, changing laws, and foreigners running scared (or just running).

The discussion begins with Ed outlining the basic framework of the Thai Foreign Business Act, explaining how it restricts foreigners from owning more than forty-nine percent of companies in certain restricted sectors. He details how this legal hurdle gave rise to the widespread use of Thai nominees, where Thai citizens are paid to hold fifty-one percent of the shares on paper, allowing the foreigner to maintain operational control.

Next, Ed brings up the legal gray area surrounding this practice. He clarifies that while having genuine Thai business partners is perfectly fine, using fake nominee shareholders who possess no actual financial stake or voting power is strictly illegal under Thai law. Greg then steers the conversation toward recent government crackdowns on this practice. He discusses how authorities have been aggressively targeting blatant abuses of the nominee system, specifically focusing on certain foreign-owned businesses in tourist hotspots like Phuket and parts of Bangkok.

Ed subsequently highlights the massive risks that foreigners take when utilizing these shady corporate structures. He points out that because the Thai nominee legally owns the majority of the company, the foreign investor has almost zero legal recourse if the nominee suddenly decides to seize control of the assets or the business bank accounts. Finally, Greg wraps up the topic by suggesting legitimate alternatives to the nominee route. He points out that foreign entrepreneurs should instead look into the Board of Investment promotion or the US-Thai Treaty of Amity, both of which offer legal pathways to complete foreign ownership without the associated risks.

Greg begins his interview with coffee fan, aficionado and expert Noon by exploring her background as the former president of the Specialty Coffee Association of Thailand and her current role managing Lamarzocco, the high-end coffee machine retailer.

Noon explains her deep dive into coffee quality and traces the rapid evolution of the Thai coffee industry over the past fifteen years. She points out that Thailand is highly unique because it both produces and consumes its own coffee, which creates incredibly short communication lines between rural farmers and urban cafe owners. Next, Noon breaks down the agricultural history, explaining how early royal projects replaced opium crops with disease-resistant but less flavorful hybrid beans, prompting modern farmers to pivot toward higher-quality varieties.

The conversation then shifts to the different historical waves of coffee culture. Noon describes the progression from basic instant coffee to the cafe culture popularized by major chains, followed by the artisanal third wave, and finally the current fourth wave that focuses heavily on the science and exact consistency of brewing. She notes that high-end machines are crucial for maintaining this modern standard.

Following the interview, Ed and Greg discuss Noon's insights. Ed admits that he is relatively new to the coffee scene and shares his mild frustration with overly expensive, pretentious coffee shops. Greg agrees, reflecting on his own habits and acknowledging that while massive chains offer reliable consistency, they simply cannot match the nuanced quality and dynamic energy of the booming specialty coffee market in Thailand. But that's the great thing about coffee - it's a drink that can fit into almost any social or cultural situation.

Greg and Ed discuss the 100th 'birthday' of Lumpini Park. The guys begin by highlighting the improvements in the park over the last several years. More and cleaner bathrooms, landscaping, and an adjacent 'hawker center' are some of the highlights. Greg then reviews the different facilities that populate the 142 acre park, such as a fitness center, swimming pool, and even a lesser known library, one of the first in Thailand to be truly open to the public.

The show then shifts to a walk-and-talk in the park itself, recorded a few days before. With its proper roof and organized layout, the Hawker Center is a definite upgrade over random street vendors but in the end is just another Bangkok market. The boys tell some funny Lumpini-centric stories about their early days in Bangkok and their great memories of the park, before a discussion of the soft power possibilities of the park's famous monitor lizards.

Next, they check out the status of the Green Mile, the long walkway from lower Sukhumvit and Benjakitti Park to Lumpini Park itself. There is now a twisting walkway leading down into Lumpini, suitable for bike riders. The guys walk over Wireless Road and note that the path seems wide open all the way to Benjakitti. Both guys celebrate the realization of a long dream of Bangkok cyclists: riding through Benjakitti Park, up onto the Green Mile, and then down into Lumpini Park without once having to dismount! It might have taken decades, but that dream is finally a reality. :)

Greg begins by introducing the perplexing nature of the Bangkok condo market, noting how prices continually seem to defy gravity despite a massive oversupply. He points out that the market acts as a strange black hole of information where no one can predict trends with any certainty. Ed then jumps in, explaining that after researching the topic extensively, he has concluded the real estate environment operates almost like voodoo. He outlines the basic contradiction: there is a huge surplus of both unsold and unoccupied condo units, yet property prices continue to slowly appreciate instead of crashing.

Next, Ed brings up the legal complexities of foreign ownership quotas, which mandate that Thai nationals must own at least fifty-one percent of a building. This restriction significantly shrinks the pool of potential buyers for foreigners who are trying to sell their units. The conversation then shifts to unique cultural and economic factors. Ed explains that Thai cultural concepts regarding face-saving mean that owners would often rather let a condo sit empty than suffer the embarrassment of selling it at a financial loss. He adds that because property taxes and general maintenance fees are exceptionally low in Thailand, holding onto an empty property is a relatively inexpensive endeavor.

Greg and Ed also discuss the strong local preference for brand-new construction. Buyers consistently favor modern developments over existing ones, which leaves older, second-hand condos languishing on the market. Finally, Ed points out the stark contrast between buying and renting. He describes Bangkok as a renter's paradise, noting that renting is so remarkably affordable that buying a condo often makes very little economic sense.

In a special episode recorded during Greg's travels in Canada, he interviews three good friends of the podcast about their particular speciality, and what their thoughts are on Bangkok despite being so far away from the city they love.

First we talk to Pailin Chongchitnant of Pailin's Kitchen about her efforts to stay on top of the latest trends in Thai cuisine, what the landscape looks like in Canada, and her new cookbook.

Next we check in with Chris Rowthorn, a good friend of Greg's, former Lonely Planet Japan author, and lover of all things Thai, about how Bangkok gets under your skin even after you move away.

Lastly we check in with OG Bangkok Podcast season 1 co-host Anthony Joh about his epic motorcycle touring videos, quirks about living in Japan, and the possibility that he might soon come back to live in Thailand.

It's a bit of a departure from our regular episodes, but we'll be back to our normal programming next week!

Greg meets with mega, super, return guest Phra Pandit to discuss Buddhist teachings regarding sex, a conversation prompted by recent scandals involving women extorting monks. Phra Pandit explains that while sexual scandals within the clergy are actually quite rare, they occasionally happen, sometimes because young men are dumped into the monastery by their families rather than choosing the life themselves. He outlines the strict regulations for monks, noting that there are four cardinal rules that cannot be broken. Breaking the primary rule against having sexual intercourse with any human or animal results in immediate and permanent expulsion from the monkhood. Next, Phra Pandit explains that secondary offenses, such as lustful touching or speaking, require a confession to a senior monk and a twenty-day penance.

The conversation then shifts to everyday Buddhists, with Phra Pandit clarifying that laypeople are guided by five precepts, which simply advise against wrongful or harmful sexual conduct. However, he notes that individuals on spiritual retreats taking eight precepts must refrain from all sexual activity. Phra Pandit explains that the reasoning behind monk celibacy is practical. Because monks are supported by the lay community, they are expected to pursue enlightenment, and giving in to desires simply clouds the mind.

Ed then expresses his regret at missing the interview, which Greg recorded the day prior. The hosts then compare the Buddhist perspective on sex to Western and Christian views. They conclude that while Western religions often frame sex around concepts of guilt, the Buddhist approach does not view sexual failings as uniquely wicked, but rather as equal to failing any other precept. An interesting insight into a part of Buddhism most westerners don't know much about!

Greg and Ed explore common Thai stereotypes and symbols that are heavily associated with Thailand internationally, yet play a surprisingly small role in the daily lives of average Thai citizens. They note that due to Thailand's massive tourism success and unique geography, the country has successfully capitalized on and promoted these cultural icons, even if locals do not actively participate in them.

The hosts begin by discussing Pad Thai, noting that while foreigners view it as the ultimate Thai staple, locals rarely eat it compared to everyday dishes like Pad Krapow, and some even view it as tourist street food. Next, they tackle meditation. While Thailand is a deeply Buddhist nation, the hosts reveal that active meditation is remarkably niche among locals and might actually be more statistically popular in the United States, aside from the basic practices required in Thai public schools.

Greg and Ed then bring up Thailand's famous beaches. They observe that while tourists flock to frolic in the sand and water, Thai people generally avoid the sun, preferring to sit under shaded canopies to eat seafood after sunset. The conversation then shifts to tuk-tuks, which the hosts describe as an iconic but highly impractical mode of transport. Greg notes his own fast-paced experiences tracking a tuk-tuk ride on an app, emphasizing that locals largely avoid them due to traffic, heat, and safety concerns, leaving them mostly for foreigners.

Finally, the hosts discuss Muay Thai and Full Moon parties. They highlight that Muay Thai is primarily a working-class sport rather than a mainstream middle-class obsession, and Full Moon parties are overwhelmingly attended by foreigners, with Thais typically only going if introduced by Western friends.

Greg and Ed interview expat legend Chris Baker, co-author (along with his wife Pasuk Phongpaichit) of A History of Thailand, in addition to several other well-known books on Thailand. Greg and Ed gush over the fact they have both read Chris's most famous work, something that every serious expat needs to do at some point.

Chris begins by relating the lovely story of meeting his wife in England and subsequently relocating to Thailand where he worked a variety of jobs before settling down and co-writing a book with her on the economy and politics of Thailand in the 1990s. He explains his fascinating relationship with his wife, which involves extensive arguing over the subject matter of their books, while somehow preserving their personal relationship. The guys joke that this is perhaps Chris's greatest accomplishment.

Chris continues with the story of his most famous book, A History of Thailand, how it came about and he and his wife's shock and amazement at its best-seller status. Chris explains that a new, updated fourth edition is close to release, so all Bangkok Podcast listeners now have their summer reading assignment!

Greg and Ed prod Chris for his thoughts on recent events in Thailand, and Chris gives his insightful take on the last few years. Thankfully, Chris agrees to return to the podcast for future shows. We can't wait! :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In a special main show, Greg and Ed interview Hal, Ed's OpenClaw bot about his knowledge of the Bangkok Podcast. The guys begin the show discussing their mutual obsession with AI but also explain how it could be especially relevant to those living in Bangkok, as Thailand adopts AI in a big way. Ed then tells of his struggles and travails getting the bot to work and to help him create an archive of all seven previous seasons of the podcast, along with transcripts.

For the highlight of the show, Greg and Ed actually talk to 'Hal' live! It has to be heard to be believed, as the interview is entirely unscripted and based on the bot's knowledge of transcripts from Season 1 of the podcast. Hal ends up being pretty good at some things - identifying Tony as the co-host, and explaining Jodi's travel writing - but horrible at other things, such as simply listing the guests on the show from Season 1.

After the interview, the guys discuss Hal's successes and failures and some plans to use AI to make the podcast better for everyone. One thing we know for sure: the AI of six months from now will be a lot better than today!

In a ReCast episode from season 7, Greg interviews well known Bangkok-based photographer Tim Russell about his book 'Bangkok Station,' which focuses (literally) on the iconic and now mostly defunct Hualamphong Train Station. Greg has had a special connection to the place over the past few months because he just finished organizing an event there for 300 guests last Friday, which is why we've been off air for the past two weeks as activity and stress reached their peak.

Tim begins by explaining his early days twenty years ago as a traveller in Vietnam and how he picked up photography as a way to document his travels. Eventually he made his way to Thailand and managed to pass through Hualamphong in its heyday. The guys discuss Huamlamphong's design by an Italian architect and its opening in 1916, making it a Bangkok institution for more than 100 years.

Greg interviews old friend of the podcast Rikker Dockum, Thai language expert extraordinaire about the Thai Royal Society, an organization dedicated to overseeing, promoting and regulating the Thai language. Rikker begins by explaining that he actually wrote his undergraduate thesis on the Society more than 20 years ago, so he's a longstanding follower of their work. He notes that it originally modeled itself after the French Academy, which, among other things, develops French words for English equivalents.

For instance, Greg brings up the issue of the word 'computer,' which is typically spoken in Thai as 'com-pu-TER,' even though the Institute has specified a true Thai word for the computer. Rikker goes through the etymology of the word, but Greg asks whether the work of the Institute is even necessary if people don't adopt the words they come up with. Rikker defends the use of public funds for work codifying 'official' Thai, noting that were it left to the private marketplace, the work would never get done.

The old friends continue their conversation about the Institute, emphasizing the need for such an organization for a language like Thai, which is vital to the history and culture of Thailand, but plays little role outside the country. Very few languages in the world are so popularly dominant that their continued preservation is assured, and unfortunately, Thai language is not one of them.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Tech Fail Alert! The last 5 minutes of our discussion was cut off by dastardly internet Gremlins, but we said most of what we wanted to say anyway.

In a follow-up to the recent Thai election, Greg and Ed do their best to make sense of the unexpected outcome. Greg defers to Ed's poli sci knowledge, and Ed struggles through it despite his expertise being American politics. Before the election, polls indicate it was a three-horse race between the progressive faction, the Thaksin clan, and the conservative faction led by the current Prime Minister. Although the progressive faction was expected to grab a plurality, none of the three were expected to have the majority necessary to form a government - so the main question was going to be: Which two factions would team up?

Alas, the conservative faction ended up with a decisive victory, upending many of the gains that the progressive faction made in the last election, especially in rural areas. The margin of victory was such that the issue of coalition-building was almost moot due to the plethora of small parties to build the majority.

So what led to the conservative victory? Ed notes that the current Prime Minister capitalized on his incumbency to ride a nationalist wave driven by the recent conflict with Cambodia. This was somewhat expected, but not to the extent that came to pass. Other factors, such as the lack of a charismatic leader among the progressive faction could also have been a factor. Greg chalks it up to people just being tired of the constant back-and-forth where nothing ever really changes, so they just chose to stay home and not vote for anyone - basically, they prefer stability to fighting for change.

Last, the guys discuss the myriad claims of mistakes in the vote count and hope the Election Commission orders some recounts in at least some districts.

In a followup to a recent episode, Greg and Ed walk through the entire 'Facts About Thailand' quiz that Ed gave his Thai Society students. It's a broad test of Thailand - geography, history, politics, government, demographics, and more, that's slightly harder than the average quiz you'd find online.

If you are an intrepid soul, you can take the quiz yourself before you listen in for the answers. Use the link here. Another option is to use this sheet to take the quiz and then check the answers yourself. (If you do take it and then check the answers yourself, be sure to reset the form to not show the correct answers).

Full disclosure - Greg got 36/50 - can you beat him??

Greg interviews Mario Butler of Dreamster.io, a platform that allows musicians to connect directly with their audience, and fans to own the music they buy, not just rent. Greg begins by asking about Mario's background and the core mission of Dreamster.io, prompting Mario to explain how the music industry has shifted from tangible ownership to a "rental" model through streaming. Mario responds by introducing Digital Music Assets (DMAs), which utilize blockchain to allow fans to truly own digital music again, much like they once owned vinyl or CDs.

Next, Greg wonders whether this technology is actually beneficial for the average listener compared to the convenience of a cheap monthly subscription. Mario clarifies that DMAs function as financial assets; because they are built on a bonding curve, the price can increase like a stock, and the platform's smart contracts allow users to sell their music back for a profit. Furthermore, Mario explains that these assets are programmable, meaning an artist can embed real-world perks like merchandise discounts or backstage passes directly into the digital file.

Greg then asks why Mario is specifically targeting the Thailand market. Mario notes that Thai artists and fans are exceptionally tech-savvy and passionate, making them early adopters of innovative platforms. He emphasizes that Dreamster removes the usual "crypto" hurdles by allowing users to sign up via email and pay with credit cards, hiding the complex backend technology to focus on the user experience. The interview finishes with a discussion of how the platform protects against AI-generated content and automates royalty splits, ensuring that human creators are fairly compensated for their work in real-time.

Another classic recast! One of the craziest stories from recent Thai history.

Continuing our series on interesting episodes in Thai history, this episode focuses on the infamous Blue Diamond Affair, It all started when a Thai gardener named Kriangkrai Techamon, who was working in Saudi Arabia, decided to make off with $20 million worth of gems and jewelry belonging to a Saudi royal. Although the thief was caught shortly after his return to Thailand, he had already sold much of the loot, including the famed 50 karat 'Blue Diamond.' No problem - the gems were returned to Saudi Arabia and an apology issued. Case closed!

BUT! Soon after the treasure was returned, Saudi authorities claimed that over half of the returned gems were fake, including the Blue Diamond. The Saudi authorities sent a special team of investigators to Bangkok to investigate...and what followed was a tale of murder, kidnapping, and black magic, with the ultimate result being a near-total diplomatic breakdown between the two countries that continues to this day (update - diplomatic relations were restored in 2022). It's a plot almost too twisty for Hollywood, but listen in for details on one of the strangest episodes in Thai history.

As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.Bangkok History Highlight: The Blue Diamond Affair

Ed interviews Thanita 'Ninar' Wongprasert, an old student of his and former guest on the show in 2018. On the earlier show she came on to talk about gay rights and same sex marriage in Thailand, and the two begin the interview with a high five to celebrate the eventual passage of gay marriage laws in Thailand. Ninar then discusses her work with various international NGOs and agencies of the UN. She was able to work on multiple issues, from the ozone layer to cyber security among others, and focused mostly on public information campaigns. Ed asks her about the transition from their international program to a prestigious organization such as the UN, and Ninar notes that building out her resume was a big project, but once she did that, she sailed right in.

Ed then asks about Ninar's new project, which is a type of consulting project that helps people find their purpose in life. To some extent, there is a focus on young people and helping them find a job that is truly meaningful to them, AND that will still be needed in the age of AI. But Ninar makes clear that they will advise clients of all ages, even if it's a retiree looking for a new hobby.

This segues into a discussion of Gen Z and the Thai education system and how Ed does his best to teach Thai students to think for themselves. Ed ends by pointing out that of all of his students in 17 years, Ninar is the ONLY student ever to get a perfect 100 on an essay exam. Yay Ninar!

Greg and Ed discuss Ed's new class at his Thai university: "Contemporary Thai Society in the Modern World." The guys have a laugh at the thought of a white guy from Ohio teaching young Thais about their own country, but Ed notes that he has been living in Thailand as an adult for 25 years, whereas his students are only 18-20 years old. One point for Ed! Further, there's considerable value to getting an 'outsider' view of one's own country. Greg admits that his knowledge of his own birth country is scant in many ways.

Ed and Greg banter about different topics that should be covered. Ed notes that there are a few gimmes: the upcoming election is perfect fodder for the class, and the 'Middle Income Trap' is a much discussed problem in the development of the Thai economy. The guys weigh the pros and cons of discussing the darker side to Thai society, such gambling and prostitution, with Ed admitting he hasn't made up his mind yet.

Greg talks about his brave attempt at a 'Facts About Thailand' quiz that Ed gave his students on the first day of class, and Ed scores his quiz. Greg got 36 questions out of 50 correct (apparently spot on with Greg's actual academic performance!). If you are interested in taking the quiz yourself, follow the link here. If you beat Greg's score, he'll personally send you a gift card for Central Department Store worth 10,000 baht!*

*this is not even remotely true.

Greg and Ed interview Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, a Thai Member of Parliament known for his advocacy in liberalizing Thailand's craft beer industry. The conversation takes place shortly after the dissolution of the Thai government, a transition that finds Taopiphop technically unemployed but focused on the future of his party.

A central theme of the interview is Taopiphop's unconventional decision not to seek re-election. He expresses a desire to set a new standard in Thai politics by stepping down after achieving his primary goals, such as the liberalization of alcohol production laws. He argues that "having power" is different from "being in power" and hopes to empower younger candidates within his party to finish the work he started. Though, it should be noted, soon after we recorded this interview, Khun Tao seemed to change his mind and head back into the political arena.

The discussion also delves into the structural challenges of Thai governance, specifically the influence of the "civil servant party"—the entrenched bureaucracy that Taopiphop claims often holds more practical power than elected ministers due to long-standing loyalty systems. Furthermore, Taopiphop touches on regional tensions, suggesting that recent conflicts with Cambodia are sometimes fueled by domestic political strategies to stir nationalism. Throughout, he remains optimistic about the progressive shift in Thai youth and their demand for systemic change.

Greg and Ed discuss the long, strange and complex history between Thailand and Cambodia in an attempt to shed some light on the tragic current conflict. Greg begins with some early history. The majority of Southeast Asia was once part of the Khmer Empire based in Angkor. Eventually Thai kingdoms in Sukhothai and Ayutthaya achieved independence, but tension between the two powers was constant. In a complex maelstrom of alliance and conflict, each power borrowed, copied and outright stole selected cultural artifacts from each other, such that untangling the exact pedigree of multiple shared cultural touchstones can be difficult.

Like many empires in history, the Khmer power began to wane in the face of territorial integrity, outside threats, inside warring, and eventually, the rise of Thai kingdoms (as well as Viet ones), all of which led to the slow decline of Angkor. In the late 1800s, the Khmers sought the protection of France, who bullied Siam into ceding territory that would eventually become modern Cambodia. Japan played a similar role in World War II. After the war in Vietnam, radical communists took over Cambodia and destroyed many institutions of modernity, but their extreme nature led them to be invaded by Vietnam, who eventually installed Hun Sen as prime minister. When Vietnam faltered in the 80s and 90s, Cambodia turned to China as a patron.

When Thaksin Shinawatra, an outsider among the Thai elite, rose to power, he formed an unlikely bond with the Hun Sen clan in Cambodia. However, the recent Shinawatra foray into legalized casinos in Thailand was too much for the friendship, and Hun Sen betrayed Thaksin's daughter, leading to the downfall of her government. Both countries used the incident and long-gestating disputes over the border to stoke nationalist fervor, and provocations eventually led to all out conflict.

Greg and Ed agree that while the two countries have clear issues to settle, the ongoing violence can only make matters worse, and diplomacy, with or without the help of Donald Trump, must prevail.

Note that this episode was recorded on December 10, so there may or may not have been important developments by the time you hear this.

On this show, Greg and Ed discuss what Greg would do if he was the boss man in charge of Thailand, echoing a similar show with Ed's plans earlier in the year. (Check out Season 7, Episode 54 if you are curious.) Greg begins with an interesting but ambitious plan to establish bike lanes underneath the elevated portion of the BTS and MRT. Ed immediately welcomes the idea, but both recognize what a massive undertaking it would be. Currently there are long walkways under certain portions of the BTS, but there are miles upon miles of essentially unused 'space' underneath other portions that would be perfect for bicycles. Hey, no one said this would be cheap, just better.

Next, Greg suggests that a portion of revenue from traffic fines be put towards police budgets, traffic safety programs, and community education based on improved metrics like response time, crime rate and community sentiment. The guys consider the idea eminently feasible and wonder whether it might be implemented already.

On that note, Greg talks about his idea to use heavy fines for air polluters in a similar fashion, only to discover that last month Thailand's new clean air bill does just that.

Greg continues with a myriad of other bold plans involving expanding sidewalks, planting trees, and installing free massage chairs in malls. Listen in for the details and Ed's always insightful feedback.

Saturday, Dec 6, 2025 at The Warehouse on Charoen Krung Road. Chec our FB page for more details.

On this episode - a classic ReCast from season 3! - Greg interviews Khun Saba, a disabled rights activist in Bangkok. It's a topic near and dear to the Bangkok Podcast, because we want everyone to enjoy Bangkok, which is very hard to do if you don't have full mobility.

Khun Saba explains that he became aware of the difficulty of moving around Thai cities, especially Bangkok, after he became disabled, and notes that while physical and structural issues are important, the key issue is really awareness. Simply put, if people blindly accept all the problems with transportation in Bangkok, then of course they will never be solved.

Greg asks Khun Saba about a notorious incident in which he broke a pane of glass when he couldn't use the elevator at Asoke BTS Station. The circumstances were unusual and need to be fully listened to to be understood, but the incident highlights the daily frustration of disabled people in Bangkok.

Khun Saba also makes clear that his organization fights for the rights of all Bangkokians to safe and convenient access to transportation in the city and not just the rights of people who are actually physically disabled. He describes his dream of making Bangkok a city of truly international standards where all citizens are equal in terms of their access to the city. We urge you to like the page of Accessibility is Freedom - you'll get some great insight into Bangkok from a whole different point of view.

As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

First off - if you're in town, join our meetup: Saturday, December 6 at The Warehouse on Charoen Krung Road. Check our Facebook page first before you come just to make sure there have been no last minute changes.

In Part 2 of Greg and Ed's interview with John Schachnovsky, the former head of the FBI in Thailand, the men continue discussing John's varied responsibilities in the Land of Smiles, this time focusing on specific cases. John brings up the he played in the Asian Tsunami of 2004 and how the FBI used its technology to help identify myriad victims. John mentions that due to the close working relationship between the U.S. and Thai governments, the FBI would lend a helping hand (often one with advanced technology) anytime it could.

Greg then brings up a very current issue - the horrible crimes being committed by cross border scam centers. John mentions that the issue was already hot for the FBI several years ago during his tenure. He emphasizes the unique complexity of such crimes - they involve multiple nations, honchos who themselves often come from other countries such as China, and lower level perpetrators who are themselves often victims of trafficking.

To wrap up, the guys get personal and discuss John's love of Thailand and his project getting his wife to agree to stay in the country permanently. Greg and Ed wouldn't know anything about that!

Get John's book here!

In part 1 of a two-part episode, Greg and Ed interview John Schachnovsky about his upcoming book "Beyond the Badge," which recounts his experience as the head of the FBI in Thailand. John starts out explaining his early career with the FBI and his subsequent move to Bangkok. Greg and Ed ask about the exact role of the FBI oversees and John explains in detail. First, as a branch of the U.S. government, the FBI has no legal jurisdiction in Thailand and must work directly with the Thai government for everything they do. Second, the FBI's role is entirely distinct from the CIA. The FBI does law enforcement, the CIA does intelligence gathering with a focus on American national security. That being said, the two agencies did and do share information when it supports their respective missions.

Next, the men focus on the reputation of the Royal Thai Police, which, to put it bluntly, is not good. John stresses that he found the RTP to be hardworking and professional overall, but admits that in some cases, the RTP had different ideas about what counts as 'corruption' and what does not. He emphasizes that, at least in his experience, the reputation is undeserved and he hopes to correct it in his book, which you can get here, or at Asia Books in Thailand.

Tune in next week for Part 2 and a discussion of some of John's more famous cases.

Greg and Ed discuss an article on Ajarn.com by Dr. Jesse Sessions called "What Does the Future Hold" which discusses some of the bigger problems currently facing Thailand and how they might impact the country's prosperity, competitiveness and social longevity. The guys walk through the issues one by one and give their take on its significance,

The first issue is border security. Ed points out that Thailand actually has major security issues on the Burmese, Malaysian, and Cambodian borders, something that is easy to forget from the security of Bangkok. In fact several of the later issues tie in to this problem, including the major problems of government corruption and of scam centers in Cambodia and Burma, that implicate Thailand in international crime networks. Greg points out that these 'scam cities' are sometimes connected to the Thai power grid or Internet service and may also be trafficking victims through Bangkok. As a 'rule of law' guy, Ed emphasizes the importance of cleaning up these issues and ridding Southeast Asia of its Wild West image.

Another cluster of issues centers around the economy, such as the slower the expected recovery of the tourism sector after COVID and Thailand's perennial fixture in the 'middle income trap,' clearly surpassing Cambodia but somehow also managing to be miles away from South Korea and Japan.

Check in for discussion of a bunch of other topics, including demographics, AI adoption, and environmental problems, and make sure to read the full article for a more thorough breakdown of each issue.

There's a lot of great buildings and great history that has been bulldozed over in Bangkok, so it's nice when we see someone going the extra mile to actually preserve both an historic physical space as well as the stories and history behind it.

On this show Greg interviews Art and Irma, owners of Siri Sala Private Thai Villa, located off of Charan Sanitwong Road, not far from where Ed lives. The couple begins with the story of how they discovered the property - at the time, an old family home that had fallen into disrepair - while on a boat ride down the Bangkok Noi Canal, and the various serendipitous events that were necessary for them to become the new owners.

Greg then discusses with them the extensive rebuilding and renovations that needed to be done to complete the space. The entrepreneurial couple explains the lengthy design process, one driven by a desire to maintain the authenticity of a traditional Thai house, but with the lived-in practicality of a genuine home, as opposed to a museum piece. Next, the conversation moves to the various uses of the unique location. Irma explains that events were the primary intended purpose, but that very quickly video productions were knocking on their door. After several smaller shoots, they were chosen to play a major part in White Lotus, Season 3, and Greg talks with Art and Irma about that amazing experience.

Last, the couple announces the impending opening of Siri Sila as a boutique hotel, that allows rental of individual rooms or the whole property, as well as entire buyouts for those who want a memorable stay they will never forget.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook, you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook, you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

As Thailand starts got back to bid-ness after COVID, there were a whole lot of n00bs coming in to tour, work and live. Most who have been here for a while already remember what an overwhelming experience Bangkok was in the early days, and how helpful it was to make a network of friends that you could turn to for advice.

Of course, not all advice is great, especially when you're talking with random people about how your new foreign home works. We think it's fair to say that most advice you get is subjective and can probably be taken with a grain of salt, but some advice…some advice is gold, and should be locked away for further investigation.

Greg and Ed take a look back at their early days in the Kingdom and each come up with 2 bits of advice that they got that they did not lock away for further investigation, and now - in their wise old age - regret. From dating to geography, sometimes it pays to listen to old-timers to make the most of your new situation.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

This week Greg and Ed have a bit of fun revisiting an old blog post from Greg about what would be the best slogans for various malls around Bangkok. As most listeners know, Bangkok may very well be the capital city of malls and mall culture, and each mall seems to have its own identity. The guys walk through Greg's somewhat salty slogans from ten years ago to see if they are still valid.

Here are some representative examples: MBK - "Not even we know what stores lurk in our dark corners and forgotten depths." Ed chuckles at the appropriateness of the slogan, given that MBK seems chock full of unexpected side areas and forgotten hallways. EmQuartier - "Come for the cool food hall and interesting stores. Stay because you can't find the exit." Once again, Ed concurs, having just been at the infamously architecturally complex mall. Central World - "Stop whining, the 5 km walk will do you good." With its renovations over the years, this mall has undoubtedly improved, but one fact can't be denied: it's freaking huge. So if you need some more steps to get to your 10k for the day, this is the mall to do it.

Ed even chimes in with some of his own slogans for Bangkok's new malls, such as Icon Siam: "A mall designed 100% for Asians: as long as you are a rich Chinese tourist." This time Greg nods his head in agreement. Listen in for our take on the bounty of unique malls through the city.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook, you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

We've all seen the incredible amount of drama that can go down if you don't run a tight ship in Thailand - everything from visa worries and bank problems to relationship blow-ups and trouble with the law. But it seems that a huge proportion of this drama is reserved for people relatively new to Thailand. Greg and Ed discuss why, as long-term expats, they seem to miss a lot of this drama. Is it something they did? Or did they just age out of the baggage train?

As both have been in the country for effectively a quarter of a century, the guys have solved a lot of problems and overcome a lot of obstacles to the point that they are each happy with their somewhat stable, undramatic lives. Many expats in the first few years of their life in Thailand experience CRAZY amounts of drama and adaptation, most which are way in the rearview mirror for Greg and Ed.

First, Ed brings up obvious contrasts: early stayers almost always have to deal with visa, work permit, and address-reporting issues. Beginners have to sort that stuff out in the first place, which really isn't that easy, but then have to worry about complying for the months and years to come. Border runs at first may actually seem like a version of a holiday, but they QUICKLY become a stressful annoyance due their cost, complications, and inherent uncertainty.

Second, Greg mentions more current problems, such as the Thai government's crackdown on money laundering, which seems to have cast an absurdly wide net and effectively shut down the bank accounts of many short term expats, but has left most (but not all) long-termers alone. He reiterates his old advice: if you are here more than a few months, you should step-by-step become more legitimate ON PAPER, such as by getting the proper visa, work permit, bank account, driver's license, credit card - anything you can. Every little bit helps to build your credibility as a serious person that the government is less likely to trifle with.

The boys conclude with a vow not to dunk on those suffering short-timers and to remember when they themselves were wee-little expats too. :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook, you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

In a special episode, Greg and Ed interview Kevin Maes in Kevin's own podcast studio on Rama IV. Kevin is a long-time expat in Thailand hailing from Belgium who became entangled in a very unfortunate crime drama and subsequently wrote a book about it called 'Kingdom of Trials,' which is now available on Amazon. Kevin begins with his Thai 'origin story,' how he ended up in the Land of Smiles, and more importantly, how and why he fell in love with it.

Unfortunately, he eventually was sucked into a drama involving his ex-wife's boyfriend that shockingly ended in the boyfriend's death. Kevin and another friend were charged with murder, and a years-long ordeal would ensue involving the ins and outs of the Thai justice system. Kevin recounts his fears step-by-step, including his shocking (but somewhat heartening) decision to return to Thailand to face the Thai justice process even though he had an opportunity to remain in Belgium safely for the rest of his life.

Suffice it to say, both the interview and the book are worth the interest of any expat or serious Thai-phile.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook, you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

Please help us by taking our first Bangkok Podcast listener survey! Click here to get started, it only takes a few minutes. Everyone who fills it out will get 50,000 baht!*

This is the second part of Greg's interview with resident Thai language expert Stu Jay Raj, in which Stu critiques a conversation that Greg had in Thai with a co-worker. The two begin by discussing the unusual role that linguists have in digging deep into exactly why language works the way it does, something the average person never thinks about. He even contends most linguists could be on the autism spectrum!

As for specific advice, Stu begins a fascinating explanation that Thai doesn't really have a word that means 'yes' directly; the word 'chai' actually translates more closely to the English expression 'it is.' Hence, to indicate an affirmative response, Thais will simply repeat the verb used in a question. This fascinating difference with English is continued with a discussion of other ways to indicate agreement, with words that sound almost equivalent to a grunt in English. As always, the context and nuance dictate the appropriate meaning, and what us foreigners are taught in class is often an oversimplification of a complicated concept.

The lesson continues with more useful advice on improving your Thai. One thing for sure, there's a lot more going on in Thai conversations than is immediately apparent when you are just a basic speaker of Thai!

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

*This is not even remotely true.

This week it's Greg's turn to feel the wrath/wisdom of our in-house Thai language guru, Stu Jay Raj. After Ed did it a few months ago, our listeners have been waiting for Greg to take the hot seat, so here it is. Greg recorded a short conversation with his friend Tong, and the show starts with a replay of that conversation.

Greg begins by self-flagellating, but Stu tries to buck him up and reassure him that there's nothing to be embarrassed about. Stu begins by pointing out Greg's choppy way of speaking, something that Greg himself had noticed when listening to himself. This creates a problem in Thai, where length of vowels is extremely important to clarity. Another thing Stu points out is Greg's use of the Thai 'meuan gan', when he really should just have used 'meuan' alone, which Stu explains with a lesson in colloquial semantics.

The feedback continues, with Stu sometimes emphasizing pronunciation, but also focusing on the nuances of word usage and colloquialisms. While most non-native speakers fret over tones, which Stu admits are important, he seems to focus more on choosing the correct word for a particular context.

The targeted advice continues next week in Part 2 of this interview.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In a return to our Thai history series, Greg tells the story of a massive truck bomb in Bangkok - that never exploded. In March of 1994, a U-Haul-style truck pulled out of the parking lot of Central Chidlom department store and accidentally struck a motorcycle driven by a 21-year old named Boonsern, who will become the unlikely hero of our story. The truck tried to flee, but a number of other motorbike guys forced the truck to stop.

The driver of the truck was a foreigner and couldn't speak Thai and convinced Boonsern and other witnesses to let him go into Central Chidlom to make a phone call. However, the driver never returned and effectively disappeared into the ether. However, when police opened up the now-abandoned truck, they found an insanely huge bomb that most likely would have decimated much of downtown Bangkok!

Although the exact target of the truck bomb has never been proven definitively, Thai police eventually focused on two suspects, one of whom was captured and served 4 years in prison. It is surmised that most likely the terrorists were targeting the Israeli Embassy, which was not far away.

Although 'almost' stories usually aren't too exciting, in this case we are happy that the climax never actually happened and Bangkok dodged a massive tragedy.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews our senior legal correspondent Dave Lawrence from Pegleg Legal about a very important but often put off issue: getting a will in Thailand. Dave begins by discussing general concerns that might apply in any jurisdiction, not just Thailand. For example, anything of value that is 'titled' with the government, such as land or cars, and then also bank and investment accounts, should be dealt with first. Next, Dave suggests considering 'heirloom' gifts, objects that might have family or sentimental value. And then, although unpleasant to think about, comes questions about what type of funeral service you want. Are you a 'toss me to the wind over the ocean' kind of person or do you prefer to be deep underground? Grim, but these decisions need to be made.

Dave makes clear something that may just be the most important decision - choosing a responsible executor, who is going to be the main person to interface with the probate court, a requirement in Thailand. Greg and Dave discuss the difficulties entailed in finding the right person and how it might be best to defer to a professional, such as a lawyer or other person with experience.

The guys go on to examine other issues such as contesting wills and how family law (such as marriage, divorce, and children) intersects with the law of probate in Thailand.

You might not want to do it, but now might be a good time to start thinking about the inevitable! :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

This week Greg and Ed take a page from a regular segment on the bonus show and challenge each other with some trivia questions, spanning Thai history, geography, religion, pop culture, and language.

The guys begin by trading questions about Thailand's provinces, Ed with a question about provinces bordering Cambodia, and Greg with a question about provinces bordering Bangkok. Next is language, with Ed bringing up the source of Thai script and Greg coincidentally asking about the discovery of the stone upon which the script was found.

When it comes to history, Ed turns to the famous Victory Monument, and Greg nails that it commemorates Thailand's victory over the French in a brief war in Laos. Greg instead stumps Ed with a question he should have known about the history of Thonburi. In response, Ed asks Greg about the most important Buddhist holiday, Visakha Bucha Day, and Greg retaliates with a question about the temptations the Buddha faced under the Bodhi tree. Last but not least, Ed asks a pop culture question about the movie 'Suriyothai,' and Greg turns to the popular Miss Universe pageant to close out the show.

If you thought being challenged on your knowledge of Thailand was fun, become a patron and check out our regular Trivial Thai segment.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Ed interviews recurring guest of the show Phra Pandit on meditation retreats. This is Part Two of a two part series; Part One is a basic introduction to meditation. The discussion begins with Phra Pandit giving some very solid advice for choosing a retreat: make sure you know the accommodations, including food and lodging, are at least adequate. Later he makes clear that luxury isn't the way to go, but sharing a tent while covered in mosquitoes may not be the best way to begin your journey to inner peace.

Next, Ed brings up the one ten-day meditation retreat he did a long while ago, and Phra Pandit stresses the importance of knowing all the rules you must follow while in attendance. The monk believes that in general stricter is better (go big or go home!), with silence being an absolute must. While some of the rules might seem a bit cultish, Phra Pandit notes that temporary restrictions for a few days does not a cult make!

Ed then turns to the expert to explain some of the weird (and sometimes frightening) mental experiences he had on his long retreat. Phra Pandit uses Ed's experience as a way to illustrate a few important concepts relating to Buddhist philosophy and theory of meditation.

A psychedelic of your choice may help the episode go down a bit better. Just sayin'.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In this show Greg and Ed respond to the opinions of our, ahem, massive group of followers on LINE about prices in Thailand: specifically both what is cheaper than you would expect and what is more expensive than you would expect. Ed starts things off with a general mini-rant about fruit. In semi-tropical Thailand, wouldn't it make sense that fruit was both plentiful and cheap? Not so Ed claims, even for such famed Thai fruits as the mango, which can be quite expensive off season. Greg opines that it depends where you go.

The comments from listeners certainly run the gamut, with most examples being things that are more expensive than expected. Examples include imported textbooks, gourmet food, public transportation, gym memberships, coffee, pizza, and the old classic, wine, due to insane import duties.

While a lot of things are cheap in Thailand, a few things are even cheaper than one would expect. Examples from our listeners are public utilities such as water, gas and diesel fuel, boob jobs (!), laundromats, and domestic airline flights.

The general consensus seems to be that the cost of living has risen, but Thailand still manages to shine as a total package compared to most other options for expats. Hence, we're staying. :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews old friend of the podcast Rikker Dockum, Thai language expert extraordinaire about the Thai Royal Society, an organization dedicated to overseeing, promoting and regulating the Thai language. Rikker begins by explaining that he actually wrote his undergraduate thesis on the Society more than 20 years ago, so he's a longstanding follower of their work. He notes that it originally modeled itself after the French Academy, which, among other things, develops French words for English equivalents.

For instance, Greg brings up the issue of the word 'computer,' which is typically spoken in Thai as 'com-pu-TER,' even though the Society has specified a true Thai word for the computer. Rikker goes through the etymology of the word, but Greg asks whether the work of the Society is even necessary if people don't adopt the words they come up with. Rikker defends the use of public funds for work codifying 'official' Thai, noting that were it left to the private marketplace, the work would never get done.

The old friends continue their conversation about the Society, emphasizing the need for such an organization for a language like Thai, which is vital to the history and culture of Thailand, but plays little role outside the country. Very few languages in the world are so popularly dominant that their continued preservation is assured, and unfortunately, Thai language is not one of them.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

The guys trade stories about their recent trips, Greg to Canada and Ed to Singapore. Ed begins with a few observations about the island nation. First, Singapore lived up to its reputation of being clean and orderly. Everything from the airport to the streets operated smoothly, and the population seemed to obey all the traffic laws all the time. This was a clear contrast with Bangkok, where traffic laws are contextual options.

Second, the technology was more advanced than Thailand and probably even the United States. Ed relates a story of a restaurant with no cashier at all, where all the transactions take place electronically, from ordering to payment.

Third, Ed notes a surprise: Singapore was not as socially conservative as he expected. Sex shops were not uncommon, some women dressed surprisingly racily, and bars and booze seemed to be everywhere. All hope for Singapore is apparently not lost.

Greg then makes a few observations about Canada. Surprisingly, he also noted scantily clad women in public. While the bare midriff is not uncommon in Bangkok, compared to most westernized places, Thai women dress fairly modestly. The frequency of tattoos was also more common, and worse, many of them looked pretty ugly, much to Greg's chagrin, making him re-think his plan to get his own ink done. Greg also was reminded of a classic 'nice' Canadian practice: the friendly wave. While Thais are experts at smiling, the friendly wave is not really a Thai thing. If Greg has his way, though, he'll bring this Canadian gem to Thailand, just like maple syrup!

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

This is part two of a two-part interview with Khun Ployjai Pintobtang, a lecturer in history at Chiang Mai University, about the history of democracy in Thailand and Asia. The discussion picks up where it left off, on the particular characteristics of Thai culture and society that might make it harder for democracy to take root. Greg begins by bringing up Ed's frequent point that there's essentially an 'official' Thailand, how Thai elites describe their country, that is often at odds with what everyone knows is really happening in the country. Ed furthers the point that almost all Thai elites will give the 'right answer': we want 'real' democracy in Thailand, but then the very same elites go on to enact anti-democratic Constitutions.

A. Ploy concurs with these assessments and notes the difficulty as a Thai person in remaining optimistic given the apparently cyclical nature of Thai politics, where the government comes close to being truly democratic, only to fall back down into true authoritarianism due some 'crisis' or another. A. Ed asks whether there is anything in the current political crisis that gives hope, and A. Ploy makes several points. The victory of Move Forward in the north of Thailand, the Pheu Thai stronghold, was unprecedented in the last 25 years. Also, the fact that Move Forward's base is made up of the Bangkok middle class and above, yet is pushing for truly progressive reforms, is a first in Thai history.

However, reasons for pessimism exist as well. A. Ploy argues that no true change can happen until the current Constitution is seriously amended, which will be difficult to do given the current makeup of the Senate. She also notes that the next Prime Minister will likely be from the Pheu Thai Party, and there's no guarantee that Pheu Thai will really fight for the reformist agenda of the Move Forward Party now that K. Pita's bid is finished.

All three participants agree there are many more issues to discuss, and undoubtedly more drama is to come on the Thai political scene. Hence, a return visit for A. Ploy to the podcast is likely!

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

This is Part One of a two-part interview with Khun Ployjai Pintobtang, a lecturer in history at Chiang Mai University, about the history of democracy in Thailand and Asia. Ed begins by asking A. Ploy her take on an old trope: that Asian culture is unsuited for democracy because of its foundations in Confucianism, which is well known for its fixed, hierarchical relationships. A. Ploy quickly counters that this idea is outdated given the relative success of democracy in countries such as South Korea, Taiwan and Japan. Ed wonders about Singapore, which seems stubbornly resistant to real democracy, but A. Ploy notes Singapore's unique history and essentially one-party system.

Next, the conversation moves to possible pre-conditions for democracy: Can any country become a democracy at any time or does it have to reach a certain stage of development first? A. Ploy notes that there is no clear authority who should get to decide what those pre-conditions would be. Who has the right to decide that? Ed then points out that in 1776, less than ten percent of Americans could read and write, but somehow democracy managed to take hold.

Greg then wonders if there is anything specific to Thai culture and society that might make it inappropriate for a democratic government. This leads to a lengthy discussion of Thai history, but in short, A. Ploy argues that Thai identity and nationalism has never truly contained democracy as a core element, thus complicating matters for democratic reformers.

The three continue this in-depth discussion of democracy in Thailand on next week's show. If you want to learn more, check out the book that A. Ploy contributed to here.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed debate the pros and cons of coming to Thailand at different ages, with the obvious caveat that there's no right answer that applies to every person and that no matter when you come to the Land of Smiles, you can always (usually) make it work.

Ed begins with the observation that early 20s might be the worst time, especially if you lack maturity and self-control - Thailand just has too many dangerous distractions. Greg notes that he managed to come in his mid-twenties and make it work but despite his friendly disposition, Greg is not much of a partier and avoided a lot of the typical pitfalls.

The guys then consider coming here to retire, an obviously popular idea in the public imagination. However, both Greg and Ed contend that although Thailand has some advantages - namely cheap living and quality healthcare - it also has many disadvantages, including laws and bureaucracy that are unfriendly to expats. OK but not great seems to be the Bangkok Podcast consensus on retiring in Thailand.

Greg then asks Ed what expats are the happiest he has met over the years. Ed relates that middle-aged guys with money, who already have been married with grown kids, seem to be the perfect fit for Thailand. Shock! Being single, with money, but with no need to find a lifelong partner is the best way to experience the Land of Smiles. :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Ed interviews our favorite expert on Buddhism, Phra Pandit. This time the focus is on meditation, exactly what it is, and what role it plays in the Buddhist religion as a whole. Phra Pandit begins with explaining the basic difference between meditation and prayer: meditation is a form of mental training in which the meditator focuses on an 'object of meditation,' such as the breath, and attempts to build up concentration and focus on that object.

However, meditation ultimately has a spiritual goal of 'union with God' or what Phra Pandit refers to as a 'super mundane' mental state. (And you thought the Bangkok Podcast was all about durian jokes.) Phra Pandit makes clear though that Buddhism as a religion is a very broad community and only a portion of Buddhist believers are seriously interested in meditation.

Ed queries Phra Pandit about such issues as the scientific studies of mediation, the popularity of 'mindfulness' in the corporate world and whether it is good or bad, and the best way to begin a meditation practice. Some issues, such as the pros and cons of meditation retreats have to be left for another day, but be sure to listen in for future episodes.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed discuss an important conundrum facing expats and tourists in Thailand: When sick or injured, should you go to a private Thai hospital or a public one? The difference in cost is substantial, typically somewhere between a factor of three and ten. For major procedures you probably want to spring for private care, if you can, but for 'standard' things like stitches and sprains, is a public hospital okay?

Greg begins with the very recent story of his son needing stitches for a split lip. Greg and his wife got treatment for his son at Bumrungrad Hospital, which is known for its international standard of care, but also for its high cost, especially in Thailand. A split lip might seem fairly mundane and more appropriate for a government hospital, but there were other factors that necessitated special care. Luckily, the treatment went fine and all is well, but Greg's experience highlights the difficult choices that expats face when it comes to medical care.

Ed recounts a scary story of his wife getting into a motorbike accident and being taken to a nearby public hospital for emergency treatment. But due to the seriousness of her injury, his wife was going to need months of physical therapy with no guarantee of a full recovery. Ed decided to pull the ripcord and move to Bangkok Hospital, another facility renowned for quality care and high prices. At BH, Ed noted that the customer service was extremely high level with LOTS of handholding and explaining, which eased his anxiety considerably. But did his wife actually get better medical care? Ed is not really sure about that, but the care certainly FELT better.

Last, Greg does a quick interview with friend of the podcast Bangkok Pat, who unfortunately was recently bitten by a dog and thus in need of a quick decision on medical care. In his case, the proximity and convenience of a private hospital (and its higher cost) won out over the uncertainty of a government one, but he's not sure he'd make the same call if it happened again.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews resident legal expert Dave Lawrence about the ins and outs of interacting with police officers in Bangkok. The guys begin by going over the various options for run-ins with the boys in brown in Bangkok, which run the gamut of being stopped while walking down the street, while riding a motorbike, or while in a taxi or car at a checkpoint. The guys run through their own personal experiences, which luckily turned out harmless enough.

Greg then queries Dave about a person's exact rights in Thailand, and Dave goes through a helpful comparison and contrast with the United States, a good foil given the fact that most people understand how the U.S. works from movies and TV shows. Most relevantly, Dave notes that Thailand does not have an equivalent to America's 4th Amendment, which means that the Thai police can pat you down or search you when you are encountered on the street. The guys then discuss various informal strategies to maybe wriggle your way out of an encounter, such as speaking only English with a police officer who speaks only Thai, hoping that the cop gives up out of frustration.

The guys then go into more specific questions, such as: Do Thai police have the right to stop you on the street and insist upon your tourist? Dave explains that the problem in Thailand is that these questions are not always answered explicitly in the law, unlike in the West. While urine tests seem to be within the power of the police during bar raids and at formal checkpoints, the authority for random tests is unclear. In this case, a person can always attempt to refuse, but how the police respond is anyone's guess.

Welcome to a country where the rule of law is not as strong as back home, and not every question is answered in black and white - more like a shade of brown. :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed discuss whether or not they prefer to be treated the same as Thai people are treated. On the one hand, after living in Thailand for twenty years, the guys feel like they've 'earned' the right to be accepted into Thai society and be treated with the same respect a Thai person would be. Ed recounts his frustration with meeting Thai people who do not 'wai' him even after learning that he is an ajarn at a Thai university. On the other hand, to be TRULY Thai, the boys would also be subject to all the responsibilities of Thai people. More on that later.

Greg checks in with two of his friends from work, Aum and Nonglak (thanks ladies!). In a short audio clip, they admit rarely if ever bowing to foreigners, but contend this is not intended as disrespect, but rather that farang are simply 'outside' of the Thai system and therefore may not understand the significance of various aspects of Thai culture. Ed confirms that his Thai friend also makes a similar point: when Thais interact with foreigners in Thailand, they simply do not consider them subject to the same rules as Thai people. In short, Thai cultural norms don't apply to non-Thais, even inside of Thailand.

The boys in the end note that in all fairness, if they demanded to be treated exactly the same as Thais, they also would have to fulfill all the obligations that 'senior' Thai people have. Ed notes that at his university, the Thai Ajarns must attend various ceremonies throughout the year, that he (as a foreigner) is exempt from. And Greg paints the literally uncomfortable picture of kneeling for hours, hands clasped, sweat rolling down your face, at various Buddhist blessings and ceremonies. Both guys agree that living in the 'in-between' zone of being able to opt into but also out of Thai culture is actually a pretty advantageous place to be.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Ed interviews his old friend Jim Cirillo, a good example of a repeat tourist (or re-tourist) to Thailand, the sizeable population of people all over the world who keep coming back to Thailand but for a variety of reasons have decided not to live here. A global Thailand fan club, if you will.

The guys begin by recounting Jim's first visit to Thailand in 2002, when traffic was even more chaotic and elephants roamed the streets of Bangkok. Fast forward to 2016, and Jim returned to get a break from his high stress corporate lifestyle, and he more or less fell in love with the openness and relaxed nature of Thai society. It helped that Jim is a musician that he found the Bangkok music scene welcoming and savvy to western music such as jazz and blues.

His return also turned him on to the digital nomads working in Chiang Mai, a discovery that would eventually lead Jim to starting his own podcast about reinventing yourself in the digital age. Check out Jim Jim's Reinvention Revolution here.

Thailand thus became a place for Jim to connect with interesting people who were hip to how technology was changing careers and the economy. Further, Jim explains how Bangkok is a fantastic hub for travel to other destinations, from Cambodia to the Philippines to Bali. The long and short of it: a re-tourist to Thailand was born. :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Sparked by a recent news story, Greg and Ed consider the ways in which Thai public transportation misses the mark. Granted, both guys agree that overall, public transportation in Thailand is actually pretty good, and miles ahead of where it was when they got here. The MRT and BTS have expanded considerably in recent years, regional airports dot the country, and an extensive railway line spans the country. Nevertheless, certain quirks in the system just don't make sense, and the boys decided to air their questions.

First, Greg mentions the news story about a missing link between two separate lines of the BTS that come oh so close but inexplicably lack a connection - not the first time this has happened. Ed laments that the different lines of both the BTS and MRT are really separate projects, with some but not really complete coordination, resulting in some perplexing gaps in the system.

Second, Ed brings up the long talked about plan for high speed rail in Thailand, noting that although the rail system in the country is quite extensive and very popular, it's also very old and greatly in need of an upgrade.

The guys continue, discussing such issues as the lack of boat connections across the Gulf, the inability to take khlong boats from the city out into the Chao Phraya, and the lack of taxi boats from Bangkok to Paknam and out into the ocean. Listen in for the details.

Last, Greg brings up a purely aesthetic point: why aren't the pillars and undersides of the BTS used for art and graffiti? No doubt thousands of square meters of blank concrete would make great canvases for colorful and creative public displays of Thai artistic talent.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Gary Butler or 'The Roaming Cook' about his YouTube channel and the wonders of food in Thonburi, the cool side of the Chao Praya River. Gary begins with some background information: he's a native Londoner who had a career as a house painter (!) but who started a Thai food blog back in 2015. He eventually moved to Thailand and began a YouTube channel focusing on street food throughout the city.

However the guys quickly focus on the Thonburi side of Bangkok, which Greg points out doesn't get much love from restaurant guides about the city, citing this egregiously under-reported story. Gary notes the historical significance of Thonburi as the former capital of Thailand and (like Greg and Ed) defends the 'Brooklyn' of Bangkok as a great place to eat and live. Gary notes that while Sukhumvit has a lot of international options, it's a little difficult to find a variety of good Thai food, whereas Thonburi is bursting with old-school Thai options.

Greg and Gary continue to extol the virtues of Thonburi. Although parts of it are modernizing, especially near the river, other parts have remained unchanged for decades, something that appeals to many Thai people and even some expats. Gary continues by going into the details of different sois and neighborhoods throughout Thonburi and their various culinary delights.

Definitely check out Gary's YouTube channel 'The Roaming Cook' but also take a day to wander the streets of Thonburi for a different Bangkok experience.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed go over the election results, with Ed leading the way and doing his best to evaluate his pre-election predictions. First, Ed discusses the obvious way the election was NOT a surprise: the conservative parties (UTN, Palang Pracharath, and the Democrats) were destroyed as expected. If anything, their decimation was even worse than expected.

Second, Ed mentions how the election did involve somewhat of a shocker: the Move Forward Party overperformed and actually beat the Pheu Thai Party overall for total number of seats won. Ed notes that pre-election polls did show Move Forward gaining, but few people expected them to win outright. Why is this a big deal? Well, the Shinawatra spawned parties have won every election in Thailand since 2000, so these results do show a major shift in among the Thai electorate towards a Bangkok-based party. But significantly, Move Forward is a very progressive party, unlike the conservative Democrats who formerly dominated in Bangkok.

So what grade does Ed give himself on his pre-election prognostications? Well, he did correctly note that Move Forward was gaining and the Bhuamjaithai was in general conservative despite their 'progressive' stance on cannabis. However, Ed thought that a coalition between Move Forward and Pheu Thai would be difficult to achieve, but in fact Pheu Thai pledged to join Move Forward immediately. Grade: C+. Greg kindly chimes in with a slightly more generous assessment of B-. But either way, this is an issue that we should all be watching very closely for the next little while.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed discuss their personal experiences as victims of crime in Bangkok. Greg opens with a recap of his recent bike theft story which has been discussed in more detail on the bonus show. Although the bike has yet to be retrieved, the Thai police were surprisingly responsive and professional. Greg then relates a couple encounters with pickpockets and an odd experience with an angry street kid. All in all, not bad for twenty years in a giant, teeming metropolis.

Ed then talks about his experience living in a house on Sukhumvit Soi 1, very close to Bumgungrad Hospital which was undergoing expansion and thus necessitating a camp of laborers nearby. Unsurprisingly perhaps, Ed's house was robbed three times, including once when his wife woke up and confronted a burglar. Other than that, Ed has managed to avoid any other encounters with crime in Bangkok, also not a bad record all things considered.

The guys then go over the most high risk behavior that foreigners in Thailand can engage in, including frequenting crowded areas where foreigners are known to go (such as Khao San Road or Chatuchak Market) and not securing your belongings. This makes you easy prey for pickpockets who target non-Thai looking people in such areas, as this poor sap found out the hard way. The second risky move is interacting extensively with street people at night, especially bargirls and ladyboys, who have a reputation for being light-fingered. And last is fairly obvious: being very drunk late at night and taking long cab rides or cavorting with bar girls. No one is 'blaming the victim,' but it is undoubtedly a fact that certain activities in Bangkok are riskier than others. You have been warned. 🙂

Luckily, as has been stated on the podcast many times, most crimes against foreigners in Thailand are non-violent, at least compared to most big cities back home.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Ryan Cullinan of the Thailand RH- Blood Donation Facebook group. The guys open with a discussion of the nature of blood donation: everyone knows it exists, everyone knows they SHOULD do it, but due to lack of social pressure, many people never donate. Greg manned up though for this show and went and gave blood. Check out the pics of his adventure below.

Ryan tells the story of how he got involved in blood donation in the first place. Long story short, a close friend of his in Thailand was in a motorbike accident and was seriously in need of blood for his treatment. His friend had an RH- blood type, which as Ryan explains, is much more common among Europeans than it is among Asians, putting people of European ancestry (as well as RH- Thais) at great risk of not being able to get the blood they need when in a Thai hospital. As a result of seeing his friend's struggle - which, luckily, had a happy ending - Ryan set up his first FB group dedicated to convincing foreigners to donate blood in Thailand.

The guys continue by getting into some of the interesting facts of blood donation, including the unfortunate exclusion in the past of many people from the EU due to fears over Mad Cow disease. Most importantly, Ryan (and Greg) encourage listeners to head down to the National Blood Center at the Thai Red Cross Society in Bangkok to make your first donation. It'll cost you nothing but some time, but you might literally save someone's life. :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In this show, Ed does his best to summarize the Thai political parties contesting the upcoming elections, as well as their various policy positions. As an overview, Ed notes a couple general themes. One is the possible return to power of the Pheu Thai party, the heir to the previous Thai Rak Thai party and Shinawatra clan. Thai people are not entirely sure whether they want to fully turn the page on the previous era in Thai politics, and this election will do a lot to settle this issue. Second, the populist handouts made famous (some would say infamous) by the Thai Rak Thai party are now practiced essentially universally by all parties, although the nature and extent of the 'benefits' may differ. A winning electoral strategy (however 'infamous') IS in fact a winning strategy, and none of the major parties have been able to resist the allure of easy promises.

Ed then does a quick run through of the six biggest parties in Thailand. Three parties can be said to represent the Thai establishment. The United Thai Nation party is a new party created to carry the banner of the current Prime Minister. It is thus conservative and nationalistic and represents a continuation of current policies. The Palang Pracharath stands for roughly the same things but offers a different former general as Prime Minister. The Democrat Party is the oldest political party in Thailand and represents the upper middle class elite of Bangkok, as well as a strong faction in the South.

Another three parties are anti-establishment, each in their own way. The Bhuamjaithai party made its name promoting the legalization of cannabis, and although they don't technically support full recreational use, stand for a more liberal approach to the popular herb. The Move Forward party is a Bangkok-based progressive movement that makes the boldest claims for reforming the Thai military as well as the strict lese majeste laws. And finally, the aforementioned Pheu Thai largely represents the poor rural population, especially farmers, and uses a more socialist-style approach to managing the Thai economy.

While currently the anti-establishment parties are polling well, it's anybody's guess if the winning party will be able to form a coalition large enough to choose the Prime Minister. After nine years of more or less military rule, however, this election will for sure be consequential.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In a unique episode, the guys take six characteristics of a 'livable city' (established by renowned urban planner Alex Garvin) and give their own opinions on how Bangkok fares. Neither guy knows what the other is gonna say, so part of the fun is seeing where they agree and disagree.

The first characteristic is that a city must be open to people with different backgrounds and goals. The guys roughly agree on this issue, with Greg giving Bangkok a score of 7 and Ed a score of 6. The second characteristic is having something for everyone, especially people of different economic classes. Here Ed gives Bangkok a very high score of 9, but Greg thinks it's not that good with a 6. The third quality of a liveable city is that it can attract people and maintain demand. Once again, both guys give Bangkok high scores.

However, the fourth and fifth qualities cause some disagreement. Greg gives Bangkok a lower score for development than Ed does, and when it comes to providing a sustainable, livable environment, Ed's score is average, but Greg's is much lower. Last, the guys come back to a state of agreement on civil society in Bangkok, arguing it isn't great but could also be a lot worse.

Who needs some science-y survey when you got two experts right here to tell you all how Bangkok ranks up?

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Wiramrudee 'Pink' Mokkhavesa, an attorney at the law firm of Tilleke & Gibbins in Bangkok. Tilleke is one of the most well-known firms in the city, and it is probably most famous for its intellectual property group, which leads the fight against counterfeit goods in Thailand and Asia. Khun Pink begins with a brief introduction to her firm, but then launches into an explanation of the 'counterfeit museum' located in their law offices which displays various fake products that the firm has helped keep off the market. According to K. Pink, Tilleke's museum is the largest such museum in the world. She then explains the absurdly large market in counterfeits, which has been estimated at 2.5 percent of all global trade as early as 2019.

Greg raises the interesting question of whether counterfeit goods are always harmful. If the consumer knows their 'Gucci' watch is not real, then who is being harmed? K. Pink gives several responses. First, due to lower quality, fake goods can actually be harmful, as in the case of decreased durability and likelihood of failure. Second, a market filled with counterfeits can discourage creators from taking the risks necessary to make new products. Third, companies making fake goods typically don't pay taxes, thus depriving the government of revenue. And last, countries with a bad reputation for counterfeits can have trouble attracting foreign investment, thus hurting the economy as a whole. Then there is the question of - if you're okay with shoes and watches, what about medicine and car parts? Where does it end?

The two continue their discussion of this complex issue, covering questions of the role of the Thai government in enforcing (or not enforcing) current laws to how K. Pink gives advice to clients considering doing business in Thailand.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed take up the somewhat grim topic of motorbike accidents in Thailand. As this episode is essentially the Songkran episode for this year, the timing could not be more appropriate because more people die in road accidents during the '7 dangerous days' around the holiday than during any other time of the year.

Ed takes the lead and tries to break down the situation. First, Thai roads in general are just more dangerous than almost anywhere in the world, most likely due to lax enforcement of driving laws. So even if you are not on a motorbike, be very aware anytime you are near or crossing roads. Second, riding on the back of motorbikes is extremely common throughout the country, but especially in Bangkok and on tourist islands. But commonsense reveals that on a motorbike, you are considerably less protected than when in a proper automobile.

Next, many foreigners choose to rent motorbikes and drive them themselves. This creates additional risk, unless you are someone very familiar with operating motorbikes or motorcycles. To make matters even worse, for many different reasons, health insurance often does not cover injuries that are a result of motorbike accidents. Possible reasons include blanket exceptions, not wearing a helmet, or not being properly licensed. The result can turn a dream holiday into a literal health and financial nightmare for tourists and expats (as well as their families). Read this story that Greg's friend Karla wrote for CNN about her motorbike-from-hell story when she first visited Thailand.

The Bangkok Podcast implores listeners to tell all their friends visiting Thailand to either avoid motorbikes entirely or to guarantee they have proper health insurance coverage.

Have fun this holiday but always be safe. :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Pailin Chongchitnant of Hot Thai Kitchen, a returning guest from Season 3, Episode 4. Pailin begins with a basic introduction to her YouTube channel: she de-mystifies Thai cuisine (and how to cook it) to the English-speaking world. Each video typically encompasses one complete recipe, and she takes pains to make sure the steps are friendly to beginners as well as more advanced chefs. Further, she provides ingredient alternatives when specific Thai things might be hard to find for the average Western shopper.

Greg asks how her videos have changed over the years, and Pailin notes that she has expanded into 'topic' videos, given that she already has videos that cover most Thai dishes. She has recently made videos on how to choose the proper Thai curry, how to navigate an Asian grocery store, and even how to correctly eat Thai food with a spoon (rather than a fork).

Following up on an issue from the last time she was on the podcast, Pailin contends that the situation for Thai food in North America has actually improved in the last few years, partly due to a welcome shift towards crediting people of color with their contributions to the restaurant industry.

Greg wraps up the interview with a few questions from our patrons for the Thai food expert.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg begins by explaining the momentous time we live in: soon there will be a general election in the Land of Smiles. He turns to Ed, allegedly a professor of political science, to give a primer (long 'i') on the upcoming election scene, but with a focus on how we got here in the first place.

Ed begins by going all the way back to the elections of 2000, when Thailand was reeling from the economic crisis of 1997 and straddled with billions of dollars of debt to the IMF. On to the scene marched a nouveau riche Thai billionaire, Thaksin Shinawatra, who confidently promised to repay the government's debts early (which he did, as a matter of fact). Thaksin formed a surprisingly broad coalition of Isaan farmers and a fairly sizable chunk of the Bangkok middle class. After an economically successful but otherwise controversial first term, he was re-elected in 2004 in more or less a landslide.

However, this apparent 'success' led to a backlash in the form of a coup d'etat from a conservative establishment in 2006, followed by years of political turmoil. After Thaksin's sister Yingluck won an election in 2012, another coup followed in 2014. Since then, the military has held a firm grasp on the government, but lo and behold, Thaksin's daughter Paetongtarn is the leading candidate in the upcoming election. The more things change, the more they stay the same in modern Thai politics.

Greg and Ed discuss whether or not any of this really matters to expats in Thailand. We can't vote, so why bother going deep? The guys offer differing perspectives on the issue, leaving it up to each expat to decide on their own.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

This is the second part of a two part interview with Paul and Yuangrat Wedel, longtime scholars and writers on Thai history and society. The first part of the interview focused on the roots of radicalism in Thai politics, especially the cultural impact of the Hindu 'sakdina' system. The second part begins with a discussion of the 1932 coup that led to the dissolution of absolute monarchy.

Paul explains the education of both Pridi Banomyong and Phibul Songkhram in France, and their desire to bring Western liberal ideas to Siam. Pridi, the civilian, took a particularly leftist view of economics and tried to indoctrinate those views in the first Thai constitution. Subsequently, after the split between Pridi and Phibul, Pridi's more radical views were used against him and played a role in his eventual exile from Thailand.

The conversation continues to cover the rise of the military in Thai politics, the role of satire in Thai society, the student uprisings of the 1970s, and eventually to the more recent protests against the current military-backed government. Has anything really changed? If not, is there reason for optimism? Listen in for the views of two true experts on Thailand with a genuinely long view of Thai history.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed interview a fascinating and very erudite couple, Paul and Yuangrat Wedel. Paul, a native of New Jersey, met Yuangrat, a native of Nakhon Si Thammarat, in Bangkok in the late 1970s and through various twists and turns ended up both getting advanced degrees in the States and carrying on a romance and eventually getting married. (Their daughter, documentary filmmaker Pailin Wedel, is a former guest of the show, as is Pailin's husband Patrick).

After setting up their life in Thailand, with Yuangrat working as a professor at Thammasat University and Paul doing NGO work, they decided to use Yuangrat's PhD dissertation as the basis for a book about radical politics in Thai history. Greg and Ed query Paul and Yuangrat about the fascinating story of Marxism and socialism in Thai history, something many Thais are entirely ignorant of. Yuangrat traces its origins back to the 'sakdina' system, a complex social hierarchy imported into Thai culture through the influence of Hinduism based on land owndership. This system created a clear separation between social classes, providing a fertile breeding ground for later far left politics that sought to free the lower working classes from the higher privileged classes.

This leads to an engrossing discussion of the rise of Chinese merchants in Thai society, the effect foreign radical thought had on a groundbreaking Thai journalist, and eventually to the movement for constitutional monarchy in Thailand.

Listen in if you are curious to hear a discussion on an often forgotten but truly interesting part of Thai history, and check back for part 2 next week.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed look at a few recent world rankings to see where Thailand fits into a world with nearly two hundred different countries. First, Greg brings up the 'Global Power City Index,' a comprehensive ranking of 48 large cities around the world that focuses on a city's 'magnetism' or ability to attract visitors and expats. Greg outlines some of the factors measured, including livability, environment, economy and cultural interaction. Ed guesses that Bangkok will probably rank fairly low based on these criteria due to the bad traffic, air pollution, and relative lack of cultural resources. Greg reveals that in fact Bangkok ranks 40th out of 48.

The guys discuss the fairness of the rankings and compare Bangkok to closely ranked cities such as Tel Aviv and Kuala Lumpur. Greg and Ed consider the 'low' ranking fair with the caveat that the competition is stiff and certainly doesn't imply Bangkok is not worth a visit.

Next, Greg brings up the Internations Expat City ranking which claims that 79% of expats in Bangkok are satisfied with living in the city. Both guys consider this an impressive showing. The Forbes 'Quit Your Job and Move Abroad' list is next, and Thailand ties with Italy as the ninth best country in the world to escape to.

Last, Greg and Ed take issue with a survey that listed Thailand as the 4th cheapest country in the world to visit. Ed notes that this can only be true with multiple caveats, especially the fact that the actual poorest/cheapest countries in the world are places that no one would really want to visit anyway. And Greg notes that general ratings of Thailand can be misleading because the cost of visiting Bangkok or tourist venues throughout the country is significantly more expensive than the 'real' Thailand that most Thais live in. So for most visitors, they are unlikely to find the cheap prices mentioned in the article.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

This is Part 2 of our epic interview with Richard Barrow, giant among expats in Thailand. In the second half of the discussion, Richard continues with explaining his slow rise as a 'citizen journalist,' first simply documenting his travels around Thailand, but eventually becoming a chronicler for English-speakers of daily events in the country. The yellow and red shirt political struggles and natural disasters such as the floods of 2011 meant that the expat community was in serious need of a dedicated, competent, native English speaker with knowledge of both Thai language and Thai culture. And Richard fit the bill.

The guys also try to dissect Richard's motivations, given his very little effort to monetize all the work he does outside of his main job. Richard's explanation is simple: he likes reporting on stuff in Thailand and does it simply as a public service. Greg and Ed do their best to try to understand how and why this makes people's heads explode and can come up with only one explanation besides "people suck": the anonymous power the Internet gives you.

Last, Richard explains his obsession with Thailand's rail lines, and the Thai government's subsequent interest in that obsession. Check out the resulting collaboration here. https://www.thaitrainguide.com/

Who knows, but now that Richard's notorious reluctance to give interviews has been broken, he MAY become an annual guest on the podcast. We can only hope.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed meet the icon Richard Barrow in Samut Prakan and interview him about his unusual life in Thailand. Richard begins by explaining his life roaming Asia as a young man on his way to Australia. By chance he made some connections in Thailand at a small Thai school in Samut Prakan, leading to a quaint few weeks experiencing 'real' Thai culture, wholly separate from the normal touristed locations. The memory stuck with him and he subsequently returned to become a teacher at the school, and well, he's stayed there for over thirty years, never succumbing to the allure of Bangkok or the more typical paths of expats.

After some prodding, Richard explains his background as an IT guy who got into building websites and blogging early, documenting his daily life in a provincial Thai town on the sea, as well as his numerous travels around Thailand. He was also an early adopter of Twitter and as his popularity grew, he began documenting current events throughout Thailand, but especially the political protests of the late naughts and early teens and the floods of 2011. It turns out that his style of straightforward stick-to-the-facts 'reporting' plus his knowledge of Thai language and culture was a winning formula to say the least. Richard became the 'go to' guy for thousands - and then tens, and then hundreds of thousands - of Thais, expats and tourists alike who wanted an on-the-ground voice to give them some insight into what was going on in Thailand.

Check out Part 2 of the interview next week when Richard gets into his stubborn refusal to monetize his success and why he is viewed as 'controversial' by some netizens.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Unless you've been living under a rock lately, you've probably heard of ChatGPT, a brand new AI writing tool that produces some shockingly advanced stuff. It's only a few months old but it's already threatening to upend a number of industries in a big way.

So, in a slightly odd show that shows how technologically hip the Bangkok Podcast is, Greg and Ed discuss ChatGPTs take on Bangkok and Thailand, Greg queries the new search engine with a host of questions about the Land of Smiles to see how much it really knows. The AI manages to write a couple different introductions to the podcast, one more positive and one more sarcastic. Both display excellent English and solid basic knowledge of Thailand.

When Greg pushes AI to write a poem about Bangkok, both guys are shocked at how 'not bad' the result is.. A+ honors high school English? Probably not. Passably average junior high level? For sure! The guys discuss the shocking rate at which the AI has improved over the last year and ponder what the future will bring. Greg also notes the limitations of the system: results tend to be factually accurate, but not always complete, and over time, somewhat repetitive.

The boys also discover that the powers that be have given the AI 'guard rails,' for lack of a better term: the system won't discuss potentially controversial topics such as prostitution, ladyboys, or even Bangkok nightlife in general. All in all, ChatGPT is amazing at what it can do, but the output in the end is neither super interesting nor super fun, and certainly not 'dangerous' in any way.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Ed interviews Sahajak "Poo" Boonthakit, Thai actor and entertainer. K. Poo begins by explaining his unusual childhood: his father was a Thai diplomat and when Poo was a young boy his family moved to Nairobi, Kenya, where Poo would spend the next 11 years. Poo discusses life in Kenya among Africans and Indians and white 'colonialists,' but also the incredible natural phenomena of the African savannah. However, in high school, Poo's family would move to New York, where he at first became more American but then later learned 'how to be Thai' from the tight knit community of Thai expats in the city.

Ed asks Poo about his history as an entertainer, and Poo explains that in Nairobi his brothers formed an acting troupe that performed on stage at school and in the city. In New York, Poo continued by becoming a singer and guitar player at local Thai restaurants.

In the late 1990s, Poo returned to Thailand with his Filipino wife, and they started The Garage, one of the first American burger joints in Bangkok. Through a stroke of luck, their young son was cast in a commercial and Poo landed the role of the father (he was a natural at it). :) This led to a fascinating career acting in films, from "The Beach" with Leonardo DiCaprio to "Brokedown Palace" with Claire Danes, up until the very recent "Thirteen Lives" directed by Ron Howard. Poo tells the story of his amazing three month shoot in Australia with the famous director and luminaries such as Viggo Mortenson and Colin Farrell.

And The Garage is still going strong after twenty plus years! Poo invites all podcast listeners to join him for some American grub at the corner of Sukumvit 32 and Sukumvit Road.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed get all deep by asking the question "Is Thailand really the Land of the Free?" And what does "freedom" even mean? Many people know that the word 'Thailand' is supposed to translate as the 'Land of the Free.' The guys first discuss the etymology of the word, with both Google and linguist friends revealing the actual provenance of that translation is unknown, and it's possible that it is more of a folk belief than something linguistically legitimate.

So how about in real life? Walking down the streets of Bangkok, do Greg and Ed feel more free than they would if they were back in Canada or the U.S.? Greg notes that the word 'free' is difficult to define and means different things to different people. Ed argues that from a purely political standpoint, America is probably the most free country in the world, but here's the rub: not everyone really cares about the freedom to criticize your government without fear of punishment.

The guys consider the possibility that on a practical level, due to Thailand's chill culture and 'hands-off' approach by the police, Thailand might be more free than Western countries in the ways that most people care about. The issue is a tricky one of course: the rule of law is a pain when you get stopped for a traffic offense, but a godsend when you are the victim of a crime. Greg and Ed do their best to examine the issue, but both admit then in at least some ways, Thailand does live up to its famous moniker.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Justin Dunne of 'Bangkok Haunt,' a tour company in Bangkok that focuses on Thai ghost stories and their relevant locations. Justin is an old friend of Greg's and after trading a few stories of the old days, the guys get into their mutual love of the city of Bangkok but also their mutual fascination with Thai spirit houses. Justin explains that his interest in Thai people's supernatural beliefs led to a study of Thai ghost stories especially as they relate to the city of Bangkok. Fans of the podcast will already know that ghost stories are a pillar of Thai culture and history, and all Thais are familiar with a pantheon of ghosts and their stories.

This led Justin to develop a tour of Bangkok that focuses on these ghost stories. Greg is a bit shocked to learn that the tour is 9 hours long, but Justin notes that it's both physically and emotionally taxing, given the 'dark' nature of some of the stories. In other words, this is NOT a superficial exposure to Thai ghost culture; go big or go home appears to be the Bangkok Haunt motto.

The guys go into details on the breadth of the tour, which includes ghosts, spirits, and 'dark history,' or locations in Bangkok where tragedies have occurred. Although not for the faint of heart, anyone interested in a REAL introduction to a key part of Thai history and culture should check out Bangkok Haunt.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In a special listener voicemail show, Greg and Ed discuss what listeners miss most about Thailand. The guys go through a bunch of different messages, each expressing a unique characteristic of the Land of Smiles that keeps them pining for more.

Starting off is Erich, with classic praise for Thai people themselves, which may be the country's greatest asset. A little further down the list is Jett from Los Angeles, with a unique lament for the Ministry of Rural Roads (actually Department of Rural Roads, but same same), which keeps Thailand's country roads in excellent shape for his motorcycle adventures. Another interesting take comes from Paul, who misses the intensity and colorfulness of the Thai promotions that dot Thailand's malls and commercial landscape. At the end, our old friend Evo and podcast master himself gives a heartfelt call out to his days as the co-host of the Bankgok Podcast! Awww! (Sniffle, sniffle).

Check out all of our listeners' takes on the full episode, and many thanks to everyone who sent in a voicemail!

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

We dive back into history with the remarkable story of Chang and Eng Bunker, more famously known as the Siamese Twins.

Born and raised in Samut Songkhram province just south of Bangkok, they had a fateful encounter with a Scottish trader by the name of Robert Hunter - himself an interesting fellow - and their lives were never the same. Siam at the time was little more than a vague backwater "somewhere in Asia" and because of their unique condition, the twins agreed to follow Hunter to the US and go on tour. It was not an easy life, as they fought against racial stereotypes and the fear that people of the time had against anyone with such an unusual condition, but they persevered, learning English and eventually striking out on their own to control their own destinies. This was just the beginning of a remarkable adventure that saw them get into bar brawls, argue with doctors, travel the world, and find fame, fortune and love.

Check out the episode of Mobituaries here, which visits one of the Bunker family reunions, as well as this trailer for a TV show called Extraordinary Siamese Story: Chang and Eng.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In Part Two of Ed's Thai lesson with guru Stu Jay Raj, the two push through Ed's sample Thai conversation. Stu continues to emphasize the importance of proper pronunciation of vowels, even going so far as to say it is more important than tones themselves. But Stu also gives several examples of Ed using sentence structures borrowed directly from English that, while grammatically correct in Thai, do not sound natural to native speakers. Additionally, Ed has a habit of using phrases that could tip off a Thai person to the fact that Ed learned his early Thai in the bars of lower Sukhumvit Road, which is not exactly known as a bastion of erudition among Thais.:)

The lesson concludes with a discussion of the value of learning Thai from a teacher that speaks English and understands how native English speakers form sentences. Native Thai speakers have obvious advantages, of course, but that doesn't mean they are the best teachers in every situation.

Listen in for some expert advice on learning Thai as a second language.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Ed goes back to school and gets a Thai lesson from the master himself, Stu Jay Raj. Ed recounts a common backstory, wherein he made serious effort to learn Thai during his first two years in Thailand - and even ended up marrying his Thai language teacher! But after that, he more or less plateaued and is looking for a way to jump start (or jump 're-start') his Thai language learning.

In Part One of a two part series, Stu analyzes a short conversation Ed recorded with a Thai friend, Anna from Lampang. Stu brings out the microscope and focuses on Ed's failure to grasp the 'glottal stop' and its function in Thai language. In short, many Thai consonants are voiced in the back of the throat and don't involve pushing air out of the front of the mouth. After practicing a bit, Ed makes some headway, but he's got a lot of work to do.

Next, Stu points out that Ed's Thai vowels are haphazard in length, when precision with vowels is a key to Thai comprehension. Stu notes that often foreigners get obsessed with tones, which are undoubtedly important, when they should be focusing more on clear pronunciation of vowels, which add 'color' to a word.

Stu's advice is pointed, but even in this short lesson, Ed manages to make some progress. In Part Two, Stu delves into other issues such as word choice and 'prosody' or the rhythm at which someone speaks.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg interviews Bangkok-based lawyer Dave Lawrence about the ins and outs of foreigners owning land in Thailand. Dave begins with his backstory: he went to law school in Ohio where he met his future wife while she was getting a master's degree (also in law), and upon graduating they returned to Thailand for what was expected to be two years. That has now turned into 12 years, and in the meantime Dave has worked several different legal jobs at law firms as well as private companies. Dave then explains his current venture: Pegleg, a company that matches foreigners in Thailand with Thai lawyers and law firms.

Dave then introduces us to the basics of foreigners owning property in Thailand. As for condos, it's possible as long as less than 50% of the 'saleable land' in the building is owned by foreigners. However, in general, owning real property (actual land) is forbidden to foreigners - but there are some well-known (but questionably legal) workarounds. Some foreigners start a company with majority Thai ownership and then have the company purchase the land. Dave points out that this is a risky maneuver and potentially illegal if the Thai owners are just 'nominees' instead of true owners.

Next, the guys discuss the recent (and recurring) talk of amending the law to allow foreign ownership in some cases. Dave argues that such efforts are usually met with skepticism in the legal community because of their history of being met with xenophobic opposition, i.e. fear of foreigners 'buying up the country.' The two discuss the pros and cons of foreign ownership and whether they think it will ever come to pass for real.

As for now, if you are a foreigner and want to own your home in Thailand, it's condos or trusting your Thai spouse.:)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

In a show fueled by a visit by Greg's mother, the guys discuss first impressions of Bangkok, and whether or not they have become jaded as long term expats. Greg includes a short interview with his mom, but bases the show on all of her insights over the last few weeks as a relative newbie in Bangkok.

First, Greg mentions that his mom finds Thailand very colorful, whether it's clothes, art, taxis, or restaurants. At first the guys are a bit skeptical, but as they run through the examples they realize that Ma's got a point.

Next, the boys discuss the newbie take that Thailand is filled with individualism and creativity. On this point, Ed disagrees directly, noting the number of shops and restaurants that are essentially copies of each other, but Greg notes that his mom was focusing on fashion and art, with many small boutiques and stalls focusing on small collections of uniquely designed products.

The next issue gets a general agree from both Greg and Ed as his mom has been struck by how consistently friendly Thais are. Yup!

Last, Greg brings up that his mom really appreciated the exotic and varied architecture of Thailand. Ed agrees that it is eclectic no doubt, but also points out that in places it can be a random hodge podge.

In short, any long-term expat could do with a "dose of Mom" and learn to appreciate the little things Bangkok has to offer when they start to fade into the background.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Ed interviews Max and Jo Hellier of Root the Future, a small social enterprise based in Bangkok that promotes sustainable living and plant-based diets. Max and Jo begin with their origin story: Jo, a vegan and former model, and Max, a 'video dude,' developed a business concept for a boutique hotel in Thailand that had to be abandoned during COVID. Subsequently, they combined their talents and started producing social media content expressing their concerns over climate change and their preference for a plant-based diet.

One thing led to another and soon 'Root the Future' was born. (Don't ask about the name - just roll with it.) Their Instagram-friendly content soon developed a large following among expats in Thailand, and over time they developed relationships with Thai partners, including vegan restaurants and local producers of plant-based food. Max and Jo explain that their driving ethos is 'accessibility': showing that being planet friendly is quite an easy thing to do, simply by moving what you eat more in the direction of plants as opposed to animal products.

The couple discuss their love of Thai food and how easily it can be converted to being wholly vegan, the pros and cons of 'jay' food in Thai culture and society, and their promotion of sustainability 'markets' that, god forbid, are NOT the same as farmer's markets.

Check into their Instagram feed at instagram.com/rootthefuture/ or their website at www.rootthefuture.com to see some quality planet-loving content by two expats in Thailand.

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Greg and Ed discuss a topic first brought up in a bonus show back in season 2: what to do about taxi drivers who won't take you where you want to go? Although there are no doubt many larger problems in Thailand, on a day to day basis, perhaps recalcitrant taxi drivers are the most annoying.

Ed runs through a gamut of possible solutions. The first is simply to somehow enforce the current law, which already requires taxis to accept all riders. The guys admit that simple enforcement may be the biggest obstacle to overcome, because no solution is viable without it. But Ed has some twists that could be added to the current regulations. Why not have two types of cabs, one that must accept all riders that gets paid at a higher rate, and one that can deny riders but gets a lower rate? Greg and Ed debate the pros and cons of this solution.

Another option would be to simply allow drivers to switch the color of their light during the last hour of their ride, signally that they now have the right to refuse riders. Greg then brings up one of Ed's old ideas, to put a QR code on all taxis that would allow for a proper feedback system for all cabs in Bangkok. That way before getting in, you would know the driver's reputation for accepting riders.

Are these ideas all pie in the sky? Well, maybe, but as that old great funk song says, you have to free your mind before your ass can follow. :)

Don't forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we'll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.