The Honest Drink Podcast

Yaling Jiang is a writer and researcher helping people understand China through real individuals, rather than through headlines or stereotypes. Yaling is a former journalist and translator and founder of the popular newsletter Following the Yuan. She is also the founder of the research and strategy consultancy ApertureChina. Today, Yaling joins us to talk about what it really means to explain China to the outside world—and why seeing Chinese people as individuals matters. We talk about what it's like to have your country, your culture, and your own identity be misunderstood. We also talk about the growing desire among Chinese women to have more control over the lives they choose to live. We talk about dating, marriage, motherhood, gender expectations and the fear of becoming "leftover". We explore how younger generations are challenging traditional norms and whether China's changing social attitudes are pointing toward a more equal future. We also talk about the loneliness of a world that feels increasingly divided, and Yaling's hope that we can learn to see each other as individuals rather than stereotypes. It's a conversation about identity, agency, belonging—and the fragile hope that we might find our way back to each other.

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(00:00) Teaser Intro

(02:40) Yaling's mission: human stories about China

(11:30) Growing up in a globalized China

(14:00) Gender, ambition, and what Chinese women want

(18:00) Dating in Shanghai and the numbers problem

(23:00) "Leftover women" and changing expectations

(32:50) Are gender norms actually changing?

(39:00) Marriage, birth rates, and who carries the cost

(44:00) Egg freezing as a safety net

(49:00) Dating across cultures

(55:00) History, race, and the "inferiority complex"

(63:00) Asian representation in Western film and TV

(71:00) Race and identity from China to the UK

(79:00) Being called "banana"

(85:00) Assimilation and the trauma of belonging

(94:00) Empathy as the takeaway

(98:00) Outro

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American fitness coach and social-media creator Mike Pistilli reveals what it's really like building an online following in China, including becoming the country's top livestream for all the wrong reasons. He is known on Chinese social-media with millions of followers as Coach Mike or 麦霹雳. We discuss the rules foreign creators face on Douyin抖音 (Chinese Tiktok), RedNote (Xiaohongshu小红书), Kuaishou, and WeChat, the hate directed at male and female influencers, and the surprising things Mike believes Chinese platforms get right. We also explore China's changing fitness culture, body-image pressure, mental-health stigma, nutrition, everyday East-West culture clashes, and Mike's new VR wellness project, FunFitland.

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Professor Daniel Graff leads design and AI research at Tongji University's College of Design and Innovation. He is a Distinguished Research Fellow, educator, and co-author of the 2026 book "Design Thinking with Artificial Intelligence". With a background spanning design innovation, business, and emerging technology, his work explores how humans design, collaborate, and create alongside artificial intelligence. Today we talk about creativity, critical thinking and the tension between technology and human input.

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(00:00) Meet Professor Daniel Graff

(01:32) Will people reject AI-made products?

(05:43) Can AI replace human creativity?

(16:08) Why one-shot prompting fails

(24:00) The next phase of AI

(32:01) The AI boom: scary and exciting

(37:37) Faster work, cheaper output, more sameness

(43:19) Creativity requires taking risks

(55:15) China and Europe approach AI differently

(01:04:01) AI saves time, then creates more work

(01:14:31) Why people sometimes prefer AI

(01:17:10) AI hallucinations and human mistakes

(01:25:33) What happens when junior jobs disappear?

(01:30:50) Are we choosing machines over people?

(01:40:03) Does Higher Education still matter?

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Zak Dychtwald is the founder and CEO of BridgeWorks Global and author of the critically acclaimed book, Young China. He runs a cross-geography collaboration lab, helping people in some of the world's largest companies get along better across national borders, through science and data backed research. Zak is a distinguished speaker having delivered over 100 keynotes to Fortune 500 companies and global investor. Today we talk about the brutal side of competition and collaboration between people, society, business and countries. Zak explains why he founded BridgeWorks and outlines the seven factors preventing effective global collaboration between working people. We compare work culture between Chinese companies and the rest of the world and explore China's internal competitive intensity, education pressures and scarcity mindset. We also talk about AI's impact on jobs and what a life is for.

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(00:00) Whiskey Kickoff (04:00) Risk Tolerance After Kids (07:55) From Young China to Bridgeworks (15:10) Seven Elements of Collaboration (22:29) US vs China Work Styles (31:54) Why China Works So Hard (35:24) Education Pressure (44:00) Tiger Mom Success Formula (54:35) Scarcity Trauma Mindset (01:18:20) AI And Future Of Work (01:28:06) Asian Talent in US (01:35:24) Compete or Die (01:43:19) What is all this hardwork for? (01:49:55) Be Adaptive and Kind

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Cyrus Janssen is a YouTuber and speaker on China and the world. Today we talk about countering fear-driven narratives about other countries, being a "global citizen", and its impact on how we engage or disengage with the rest of the world. We also talk about Chinese brands in America, as cost-of-living pressures rise and US domestic polarization and war continues. Cyrus also describes how he was recently offered $10,000 US dollars to lie to his viewers, and how the money was ultimately traced back to perhaps the most recognizable AI company in the world.

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Julie Sun is a brand marketer and content creator who creates English content on Instagram and TikTok as, "Julie your China friend", explaining Chinese culture and dating to foreigners. She uses her voice to introduce modern China to a Western audience, providing an honest perspective on Chinese society, dating and everyday life.

Today we talk about modern society and the search for our place in it. We talk about when after receiving countless messages from foreign men asking her to help them find a Chinese wife, Julie found herself researching China's matchmaking industry—and what she discovered raised difficult questions about love, practicality, immigration, family expectations, and whether the search for the "perfect partner" has become one of the defining struggles of our generation. We talk about differences between Western and Chinese communication styles, criticism and social norms around hugging, staying friends with exes, and saying "I love you". We also get into marriage customs like cai li or dowry, financial independence, and the quarter-life crisis.

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Eric Hovagim is an American content creator, industrial engineer and political commentator who, in his own words, "moved to China in late 2025 to escape the American Century of Humiliation". He's worked in politics in his home state of Arizona and in New York City, producing a handful of videos that helped get Zohran Mamdani elected NYC mayor in 2025. Recently, Eric has been producing content for popular political commentator, Hasan Piker. He was also previously part of a climate-policy think tank in the US and an engineer on the Hyperloop team. Today, we talk about why Eric is here in China and what he hopes to learn. He shares his frustrations with the state of affairs in the US and the crisis of the American dream. He argues the need for revolutionary change and optimism as we talk about what he's observing and studying from his experience in China that he could one day bring back to America. We also talk about our experiences with policing and surveillance in China, societal fear, AI concerns, Eric's self-identification as a socialist and what annoys him being here. We share plenty of laughs in an otherwise serious discussion, and we might also have offended all French people.

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Raffe is the owner of Cantina Agave, the very first Mexican restaurant in Shanghai. Today he is joined by some old friends, BT and Dino on the podcast, as we celebrate Cantina's 18th anniversary and the launch of his new restaurant, Vice. We talk about why he's stayed in Shanghai and discuss the constant pressure to keep up with this unique city, the challenges of running F&B amid unpredictable rules and high turnover, and how the city shifted from "wild east" days to stricter, safer, more equal enforcement. We compare Shanghai's convenience and safety with rising costs, crime, and lenient enforcement in the U.S., especially LA, and talk about perspective, media-driven fear, and cultural adaptation. We talk about a renaissance in Shanghai's dining scene, social media's impact, and Cantina's clientele flipping to 70% local Chinese. We also end the episode with a blindfolded taco taste test that doesn't go as planned.

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Daniel Dumbrill is a geopolitical commentator, independent journalist, and entrepreneur. He is known for his in-depth analysis of China, global politics, media narratives, and the shifting balance of power in an increasingly multipolar world. His commentary explores US-China relations, international affairs, and how media framing influences public understanding of global events. Daniel is recognized for challenging conventional narratives and encouraging audiences to examine geopolitical issues with a critical and evidence-based approach. Today we talk about defending China against Western propaganda. How control of information is influencing global discussion, society, and personal beliefs. We also talk about life in China, the great firewall, censorship, and lessons from China's past.

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YI is the owner of fine jewelry brand YI Collection and former stylist for Vogue China. Today we talk about "love bombing", attraction, sex and the city…literally. We talk about the differences in what men and women might be attracted to and the games we play when we're in the chase. We talk about rejection, self-worth, appearance vs personality, and judging faces. YI shares her mindset after leaving a relationship of eight years, her views on independence, loneliness, monogamy, white expat men, and dating strategies like negging and acting dumb. We discuss ethnicity and identity as Chinese-Americans, changing beauty standards, and the importance of health and fitness in maintaining marriages and relationships. We also talk about squat toilets.

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Dr. Steve Vinay Gunther is a renowned Australian Gestalt psychotherapist and founder of the acclaimed Northern Rivers Gestalt Institute in Australia. He is also the author of the bestselling book "The Woman In Your Life - A Man's Guide to a Happy Relationship". He has been in practice for over 40 years with an accomplished career in psychology, working with individuals, couples and families from all over the world.

Today, Dr. Gunther shares why his focus shifted to China and we get into a deep conversation about relationships. We talk about what prevents us from sustaining healthy relationships and when to walk away. We cover failed marriages, self-awareness, listening for "grains of truth" and men's difficulty identifying and expressing deeper feelings. We talk about shame, "un-virtues" and why running away from pain doesn't work.

We also discuss the over-simplification of therapy in this digital age, the dangers of using AI for emotional guidance, and a wholistic way of perceiving our own existence called systems thinking. We explore relationships from at least three levels, the relationship with ourselves, the ones we love, and society. Join us as we uncover some hard truths.

www.gestalt2027shanghai.com

www.gti.today

www.learngestalt.com

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Matt Chen is a Chinese American entrepreneur, social media content creator, and builder of Daily Hanzi, an app helping people learn to read Chinese. Currently at 24 years old he's decided to ditch his aerospace engineering degree and restart his life by moving to China. Focused on bridging East and West through content about language, culture and identity he hopes to reconnect with his Asian heritage while improving his own Chinese literacy, finding a different path for himself in a new world. Today, we talk about Matt's experience growing up in the US as an ABC and compare it to our own experience from an older generation. We talk about his choice to move to China just ten months ago, his revelation during a job interview with a US defense contractor, and what's behind the "A Very Chinese Time In My Life" trend happening in America. We also talk about the broad anxiety amongst his younger generation, finding purpose, and balancing digital and analog life.

Happy Chinese New Year!

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We are joined by friends of the show Charles Zeng, owner of Charlie's Burger, and James Wu visiting from the U.S. Today we debate the pros and cons of having kids or not. James shares his reasoning on his and his wife's decision not to have kids. We talk about societal pressures, its impact on marriage and our thoughts on using physical force when it comes to disciplining our kids. We talk about chasing happiness, comparing kids to chocolate, and our biggest fears when it comes to growing old. We talk about the midlife crisis, aging and managing anger day to day.

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Today we welcome in the new year as we film a special episode facing the camera. We play "agree or disagree" and discuss several relatable topics, from the effectiveness of New Year's resolutions to whether romance is dying. We also rank our worst personal habits to leave behind from the past year. This episode is packed with introspection, light-hearted debates, and a drive to live better in 2026.

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Rico Zhang is a Chinese-Australian Director known for his technical filmmaking, award-winning music videos and bold aesthetic world-building. His most recent project was Dongji Rescue 东极岛 (2025), a film based on the true story of Chinese fisherman from Dongji Island who risked their lives to rescue over 300 British POWs after a Japanese transport ship was torpedoed by the U.S. Navy in WWII. Today Rico shares the challenges working on Dongji Rescue, finding cultural identity in his filmmaking in China and the West, and we discuss the complexities of being an ABC in today's world. We talk about the impact of cultural influence, and how the evolving global landscape shapes identity. Rico also reveals his fascinating physical ability to not get drunk and the importance of focusing on commonalities rather than differences.

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In this special episode, the hosts delve into the theme of rushing through life and reflect on their personal experiences with close friendships. They discuss the difficulty of savoring moments, and the significance of 'Irish goodbyes'. The conversation centers around Aric's impending move to California, exploring the emotional and practical implications for their friendship and the future of the podcast. They also touch on the broader societal impacts of AI and their evolving perspectives. Despite the impending changes, the hosts affirm their commitment to their deep-rooted friendship and the continuation of the podcast.

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Today's conversation takes a deep dive into the paranormal, exploring Tilman's fascination with near death experiences, reincarnation, shared death experiences, and the time between lives. Tilman shares compelling stories and accounts, including documented cases of miraculous healings and children's memories of past lives. The discussion also touches on the transformative impact of these experiences, the concept of a higher power, and the importance of living authentically and without fear. This episode is a captivating exploration of the unknown and the unexplained. Tilman Rieger is the founder of 8C Consulting, focused on conflict management, interpersonal and nonviolent communication.

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c.j. Ng is a sales, leadership, and experiential learning coach. He has helped companies ranging from Google, Volvo to Swarovski. Today we talk about the often-overlooked skill of sales, not just as a career, but as a life-altering tool. We explore the nuances of effective communication, the need for empathy, and the fine line between influence and manipulation. We also discuss the challenges of giving and receiving feedback in professional environments, particularly in Asian cultures. We discuss if it's better to give feedback anonymously or not. Whether you're in sales or another industry, c.j. emphasizes the importance of learning how to sell—be it a product, an idea, or yourself.

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Dr. George Hu, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist from the United States. He is currently the Director of Counseling, Wellness, Disability, and Accommodation at Duke Kunshan University, and the President of the Shanghai International Mental Health Association. Previously, he was the Department Chair of Mental Health at Shanghai United Family Pudong Hospital. Today, we discuss modern emotional and mental health challenges including social awkwardness, emotion regulation and fear. We talk about the cognitive impacts of technology and AI, societal shifts in the perception of masculinity, the importance of self-reflection, and the broader existential anxieties that shape our current age. Dr. Hu emphasizes the essential need for resilience and emotional intelligence in navigating today's uncertainties and highlights the importance of redefining societal values beyond professional achievement.

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Cyrus Janssen is a YouTuber, speaker and self-proclaimed US-China ambassador. He returns to discuss his experiences and observations on the evolving relationship between China and the US, from ground level. Today we talk about cultural exchange, economic challenges and its impact on both Chinese and American society. We talk about the recent trend of travel vloggers and YouTubers coming to China, the rise of Chinese soft power from Wukong, Deepseek to Labubu, and its effect on American youth. We also talk about the potential of US and China working more closely together, tariffs and societal values.

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Arthur Jones is a British documentary filmmaker and co-host of the "飞天胡说" podcast. He directed "The Six" (六人), a documentary about the untold story of the six Chinese survivors onboard the Titanic. Executive produced by James Cameron, the film explores an extraordinary story of survival and dignity in the face of racism and anti-immigration policy. Today we talk to Arthur about his film "The Six" as we dive into broader themes of identity, heritage, trauma, resilience and exclusion.

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Ron Lee is an award-winning creative technologist and VP, head of growth at Monks, a digital-first marketing, technology services and consulting company. He is a technical expert in the fields of digital interaction, game experience, connected retail, and integrated design. As an industry opinion leader, Ron has been invited by media and top industry conferences to share insights on AI, future brand experience and interactive technology. His work includes complex tech projects for clients such as, Huawei, Vivo, Oppo, Amazon, Nike, Adidas just to name a few. Today we talk about the rapidly evolving world of AI and its impact on creativity, work and family.

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Lily Lam is a content creator and designer based in New York City. She creates content that speaks to underrepresented voices and is an influencer within the world of Magic: The Gathering. Today, we talk about gentrification in New York's Chinatown, cultural identity as Chinese-Americans, and the recent rise of Chinese soft power. Lily shares her thoughts on deep systemic problems in America and we discuss how American perceptions of China are shaped and how they're now changing. We talk about Lily's personal transgender experience, transitioning, its impact on her family, and finding inner peace in a new, yet familiar identity. We also talk about fashion and how it can be a useful tool in building personal confidence through individual style instead of chasing trends. This is a heartfelt discussion on identity, acceptance, and change.

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Jason Oakley is a renowned Chef who has spent his career working in multiple Michelin star restaurants and 5 star hotels around the world, including the Mandarin Oriental, St Regis, Peninsula, Wynn Las Vegas, the French Laundry and 3 on the Bund just to name a few. Having spent a career serving upscale fine dining patrons, he now pursues his real passion with Sub Standard, a humble neighborhood sandwich store making some of Shanghai's most popular sandwiches, keeping it casual, accessible and unpretentious. Sub Standard frequently tops the charts for most repeat customers on China's biggest food delivery apps. Today we talk about why Shanghai never had a good sandwich culture, the ups and downs of western cuisine in China, and the cliche of "popular" western dishes here. We also talk about corruption with the Michelin guide ratings, why authentic Italian pizza is bad and fighting mosquitoes at night.

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Amy Fu and John Kuo are old friends of the show. In this episode we do a lot of drinking and explore Amy's transformative experience living a minimalist life in a van and how it reshaped her values and outlook. Amy shares her experiences of breaking away from societal norms, quitting her job, and being disowned by her tiger parents. The discussion covers the challenges and rewards of living on the road, cultural pressures of urban living, and connecting with nature. Through shared anecdotes and philosophical reflections, this episode explores the intrinsic human need for simplicity, community, and self-reflection.

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Matt Galat (加油马特) is a vlogger, global traveler, and filmmaker. He is best known for his video channel JaYoe Nation and his newer YouTube channel Nuance, where he continues to explore East-West topics while traveling. Tice Kralt is a bicycle tourer turned web developer, currently working remotely as a full-stack engineer in Taiwan. Today we talk about life in transit, adjusting to America's suburban lifestyle, and returning to China's dynamic urban cities. Matt and Tice share the energy they feel rediscovering China again and how it compares elsewhere. We also talk "van life", gun violence, and we compare experiences on social issues, culture, technology, language and travel.

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Cameron Johnson returns to talk about the current US trade war, tariffs, and the new world order. Cameron Johnson is an expert in supply chains, manufacturing, and technology. He is frequently sought out for his expertise on US-China trade and supply chain issues, and is a delegate to Washington DC where he advises US politicians and officials. He is also a professor at New York University and former Vice-Chair of the board at the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai. He is a senior partner at Tidalwave Solutions with clients in various high technology sectors and he has been quoted by both American and Chinese news outlets alike.

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Anna Yang is an award-winning advertising creative. She has been named one of the Top 30 creatives in China by Campaign Brief. She is also the youngest ever delegate to have represented China and won gold at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity. In this episode, we engage in a chaotic and diverse conversation about chaos theory, gravity, and Anna's eviction and attack in New York. We talk about the philosophical nature of math, whether anything is truly random in life, and how we are all modern day cyborgs. The discussion then delves deeply into the cultural and biological significance of blood, examining how blood may serve as a social construct that connects all of humanity. This episode is a mix of science, personal anecdotes, and reflective thought experiments on kinship and love.

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RedNote: THD The Honest Drink

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Cameron Johnson is an expert in supply chains, manufacturing, and technology. He is frequently sought out for his expertise on US-China trade and supply chain issues, and is a delegate to Washington DC where he advises US politicians and officials. He is also a professor at New York University and former Vice-Chair of the board at the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai. He is a senior partner at Tidalwave Solutions with clients in various high technology sectors and he has been quoted by both American and Chinese news outlets alike. His work helping US buyers source personal protective equipment during the pandemic has been featured on the PBS series Frontline titled "America's Medical Supply Crisis". Today we talk about US-China trade relations, the supply chain ecosystem, and the political forces that shape it. Cameron shares what's fueling America's approach to "de-risking" or "decoupling" from China and his long-term outlook for global peace. We discuss the oversimplification of reshoring manufacturing to the US and the political rhetoric around it. We also explore the role of supply chains in reducing global conflicts, despite current tensions.

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RedNote: THD The Honest Drink

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Frank Tsai is the largest organizer of public lectures in Shanghai. He is the founder of China Crossroads, hosting public talks on "China and the World" where he invites senior figures in academia, politics, business and foreign affairs. He formerly worked at The Economist, and Control Risks, the top global risk consultancy. He is an American with a background teaching geopolitical risk analysis and international media. Today we talk passionately about a wide range of topics, including societal biases towards extroverts, the evolving socio-political landscape in China, and U.S. President Donald Trump. We talk about cycles of tightening and opening in national policies and society, the low bar for some China "experts", and why media and public figures speak in hyperbole. We explore the framework of U.S. and China relations, exit plans, and global stability. Frank also reflects on America under Trump, the loss of civic education and the weakening global perception of American democracy. The conversation wraps up with a critique of the "melting pot" ideal, exploring the tension between individualism and unity in both China and America.

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Steve Shi is one of China's leading psychotherapists and host of the 史蒂夫说 podcast. He returns to discuss Inner Wild, his unique project that combines boxing with mental health discussions. We talk about young professionals and couples grappling with pressures of modern society and the importance of physical contact, controlled aggression and building emotional resilience. We examine the societal effects of emotional suppression in Chinese culture, exploring its ties to economic struggles and violence among disenfranchised individuals. The conversation also touches on vulnerability, human connection, and the challenges of adapting to a less intimate world. We reflect on finding balance between optimism and pessimism in an uncertain future. Finally, we share our own violent fantasies and discuss the meanings behind them. This episode offers an inspiring look at mental health, culture, and personal growth.

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As we head into Chinese New Year, return guest and intercultural leadership coach Gabor Holch joins Justin and Aric for a thought-provoking conversation on self-reflection, leadership, and the human condition. Gabor shares how gratitude and perspective helped him overcome recent challenges while embracing the freedom of self-employment. Together, we explore the impact of AI on work, the influence of parenting styles on personal development, the roots of envy and why the grass always seems greener on the other side. Gabor emphasizes the importance of questioning beliefs, practicing humility, and fostering open-mindedness to bridge cultural divides, especially regarding perceptions of China. Packed with Gabor's insights and stories, this episode offers practical wisdom for anyone looking to grow as a leader and individual. Happy new year...

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Dr. Stewart Desson is a leading expert in psychometrics and the developer of the renowned personality assessment, Lumina Spark. His approach is a blend of the "analytical" and the "humanistic" for personal and organizational development. He is also on the board of the Association for Business Psychology (ABP) and is the CEO of Lumina Learning.

Yimin Wang is a personality development and leadership coach. He is one of the highest certified people development coaches in China, the CEO of Sense Consulting and a Global Partner of Lumina Learning.

Jonathan Cannon is a certified business psychologist working in psychometrics. He is responsible for the research & development of Lumina Learning and its core psychometric assessments.

Today we talk about the challenges of personality stereotypes, psychological & neuro diversity and the impact of psychometric assessment tools on personal development and organizational culture. We talk about the prevalence of bias and labeling in traditional psychometric tools and society, particularly the overvaluation of extroversion. We talk about the need for a more inclusive approach in recruitment and hiring practices and explore the strengths associated with different neurodivergent traits. We also talk about improving relationships, managing conflicts, our sense of control over our lives, what it takes to actually change our personalities, and if thats even possible.

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Layla Chen is an English content creator and solopreneur. She was formerly a trained actor in theatre and film in the UK. Currently, she provides online training and coaching in English pronunciation, voice and public speaking to native Chinese around the world. She graduated from the Royal Central School of Speech and Drama at the University of London with a masters in screen acting. She was also selected to be a leading international figure in the Forbes Global Alliance in 2024. Today we talk about the role of language in our lives. From language learning, miscommunication, cultural differences, dating and marriage. Layla shares her experiences moving to the UK despite not speaking English, the challenges of fitting-in to a new culture and the impact it had when she returned to China. We talk about communication styles and high-context vs low-context societies. The conversation touches on the pressures of marriage in modern Chinese society, the evolving dynamics of relationships and expectations for gender roles. We also talk about dating in the West vs China, the influence of social media on dating culture and how to know when you've met "the right person".

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Today we talk about the psychology of texting, jumping to conclusions, and if we're destined to repeat the same failures in life. We talk about text message etiquette, the psychology behind quick responses, slow responses and no responses, and "closing the loop" with people we have unintentionally ignored. We talk about jumping to conclusions and making assumptions about others and their intentions. We explore the idea of accepting oneself as is versus constantly struggling to change in the name of personal growth. We talk about fixating on failure versus success, being overly self-critical versus blindly overconfident and the role of luck.

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Ethan Robertson is the host of Wheelsboy 车轮哥, a channel dedicated to offering independent reviews of Chinese cars. His videos have over a million subscribers and are available on YouTube and all mainstream Chinese platforms. Today we talk about the electric vehicle (EV) industry in China, including the rise of Chinese EV brands, the challenges they face globally, their competitiveness, shortcomings, environmental impact and the future outlook of the industry. Ethan provides insights into the rapid growth, value proposition, and user experience offered by domestic brands. Ethan also touches upon the challenges faced by the big foreign legacy automakers in China, their declining sales, and the marketing strategies employed by Chinese automakers as they attempt to expand globally. Ethan shares his personal experiences as a car reviewer in China, including his commuting habits, interactions with car manufacturers, maintaining objectivity in his reviews, and his perspective as an American in the Chinese EV industry.

YouTube: @wheelsboy Instagram: Wheelsboy_auto

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Dr. Brian Wong is a Rhodes Scholar, geopolitical strategist, tech advisor, author and Assistant Professor in Philosophy at the University of Hong Kong. His research examines the intersection of geopolitics, political and moral philosophy, and technology. Brian co-founded and now advises the Oxford Political Review and currently serves as a Fellow and Advisor at the Oxford Global Society, an independent think-tank. He is also a Fellow at the Centre on Contemporary China and the World and is the Founding Secretary of Citizen Action Design, a youth policy think-tank based in Hong Kong. Today we talk about the role of rhetoric and manufactured outrage in politics, the challenges of implementing true democracy, and the rise of AI. We critique the notion of democracy as a panacea, and discuss a nuanced approach to governance in a multipolar world. We dive into the current state of American politics, the factors contributing to the disillusionment and frustration among segments of the population, and cultural grievances weaponized by political elites. We talk about AI and its potential impact on jobs and employment. Brian expresses concern about the potential appointment of hawkish individuals in a Trump administration, exacerbating tensions and volatility in US-China relations. He also expresses hope that the younger generations in both countries can help bridge divides.

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Cymri Chang is a Creative Producer and friend of the show. Today we discuss the human race, whether it's as a species, a political race or literally racing in the Olympics. We talk about if continuing the human species is important to us. We present cases for and against humanity and its impact on itself and all other living things. We talk about ancestry tests and recount our experience on the day of 9/11. We talk about the US presidential election and candidates like RFK Jr and Kamala Harris's Vice President nominee Tim Walz. We also talk about the Paris Olympics, the controversy around the Chinese swim team, Pan Zhanle, and the systems in which countries produce and incentivize Olympic athletes.

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Jorge Castellanos is a stand-up comedian and was a member of the sketch comedy group Mamahuhu, a popular YouTube series. He is also the owner of the Shanghai bar called BnC. He has performed with some of the biggest comedians like Mark Normand, Kyle Kinane and Jim Gaffigan. Today we talk about Jorge's experience as a comedian in China, navigating censorship, and insights from hosting famous American comedians when they visit China for the first time. We talk about Mamahuhu and its impact on his life in Shanghai. We get into Jorge's family background as refugees and his father's experience as a Cuban political prisoner. We talk about expat life in Shanghai, cultural differences and compare things you can't do or say between China and the US. We share stories on leaving America and the significance of living abroad. Jorge tells us a revealing story about the time he worked at PETA. We also talk about personal struggles with anxiety, self-doubt and relentless inner-voices.

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Danny Hu is the CEO of WeCycle and started the largest triathlon community in China. His platform, STC大铁, has gone from a few hundred people to over 100k members and has helped organize 300+ triathlons and other active events across China. Today, in the spirit of the Olympics, we talk to Danny about how he got convinced to enter his first triathlon. We talk about how he taught himself how to swim, his approach to living and his keys to a healthy lifestyle. We discuss his business around community and cycling. Why he encourages everybody to ride a bike and why women have the most important influence on the success of his business and the active lifestyle industry. We also talk about the new wave of active sporting culture in China and his suggestions for some changes in urban planning to help those who want to keep it moving.

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Daniel Bateman is a content creator of his own social media channel @baidehan focused on being British, business and lifestyle in China. He is also the host of the "Panda Profits Podcast" and the founder of Brit Bridge, a global consultancy and marketing company. Today we talk about the book "The Game" by Neil Strauss and how it helped Daniel gain confidence in approaching women, dating, and conducting business. We talk about the awkwardness of starting conversations with strangers and the value of being direct, taking initiative, and why we should always be opening. We discuss dating apps, role models, and the fine line between confidence and being a creep. We talk about social media personalities, toxic ideology and social order in the UK and China. We also get into the bumpy ride of maintaining chemistry and resolving conflict when co-hosting a podcast.

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Ben Cavender is the Managing Director and Head of Strategy with the China Market Research Group (CMR). He helps Fortune 500 companies strengthen their brands positions and presence in China's consumer market. He frequently speaks internationally on innovation, technology, economics and consumer trends. He is frequently quoted and interviewed by news outlets including The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, New York Times, Economist, Forbes, Business Insider, BBC, CNN, CNBC, and Channel News Asia. Ben also conducts guest lectures for select MBA and corporate programs such as Harvard Business School. Today we talk about China's economic situation, the rise of domestic Chinese brands, US trade tensions, the impact of AI, the upcoming US presidential election, and raising children in the digital age.

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Tilman Rieger is a conflict mediator, interpersonal and cross-cultural communication expert. He is the founder of 8C Consulting and an expert in the fields of nonviolent communication, transactional analysis, positive intelligence and team building. Today we talk about psychological safety in groups, at work and in society. We learn about creating environments where individuals feel safe to take risks, make mistakes and speak honestly and critically to each other without becoming defensive. We talk about the idea of taking responsibility for how we feel instead of blaming others. We also examine the cultural differences between Western and Chinese cultures on communication styles, power dynamics and the perception of directness. We touch on concepts such as the VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex, ambiguous) world and stages of team development (forming, storming, norming, performing). In an increasingly complicated world we talk about the challenges of sensitivity to feedback, accountability, culture, trust, honesty, and productive communication.

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Connect with Tilman |

www.8c-consulting.com

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Justin Hourn is the head coach and co-founder of Refuge Martial Arts. He is a BJJ black belt, former Australian national wrestling team athlete, international kickboxer, Tedx speaker and youth health & fitness speaker. Today we talk about fitness trends, wellness, purpose and overcoming adversity. We talk about purposely not preparing for things so we can react genuinely in the moment. We talk about keeping fit as we age and the shift from intense workouts like CrossFit to a focus on low-impact exercises and overall wellness and longevity. We also talk about Justin's journey to China growing up in one of Australia's most dangerous towns, being raised by a single mom, and protecting against an absent father. We talk about the importance of role models and community on physical and mental well-being, especially during childhood.

Stay connected with "Coach Justin" on social media

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Today we talk about the "3 Body Problem", AI and finding jobs. We talk about the controversy over the Western adaptation of the show from the original Chinese science fiction novel "The Three-Body Problem" and where the limits might be for cultural appropriation. The conversation shifts to the topic of AI and we debate how much we should really think about it in our daily lives. We also talk about job hunting and share stories from some of our early jobs and the lessons we learned doing them...if we learned anything at all.

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King Kwesi is a vlogger, street interviewer and English teacher from Ghana, living in China. His YouTube Channel documents his experiences as an African interacting in Chinese society. Today we talk about his background from Ghana, growing up in a polygamous family, and his experience living in China as an African. We talk about why he started the YouTube channel, his perspective on China's development and how he feels about certain comments and attacks he gets for his videos. We discuss Africa and China's presence in Africa as we hear his thoughts on benefits, exploitation, colonialization and debt. We talk about the perception of Africa and China in Western media and films. We talk about cultural unity and diversity and his experiences with racism, prejudice and how we measure our own quality of life. We also talk about why he chooses to remain in China, whats difficult about it, and why he hopes his channel can foster more understanding.

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Andrea Fenn is an award-winning digital strategist and the CEO of Adiacent, a global digital transformation company. He was a founding member of the APAC social media team at Ogilvy, a researcher of Chinese social media at Leiden University, and a former journalist for CNN and China Daily. He has lived 18 years in China working with the country's evolving digital landscape. Today we talk about the birth and rise of China's digital age. We talk about when the first Western social media platforms were blocked, how China leapfrogged traditional technologies, and why Chinese society was so quick to embrace the digital world. We talk about social media's impact on the health and development of children, and debate the merits of government intervention. We discuss China's approach to regulating the digital economy, breaking up tech giants, and moderating consumerism as we explore the rationale behind its policies, the trade-offs, and the challenges on its unique development path in a digital world.

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Dylan Briley is the Head Chef at Crush, former Sous Chef at Mr & Mrs Bund, and former chef at Goga in Shanghai. He is also an artist, culinary consultant and DJ. Today we talk about digital addiction, self-hate and his experiences working in the restaurant industry, both in the US and China. He recounts a pivotal moment when he had a heart attack while working at a restaurant in Shanghai and shares a story of the time he ruined a steak for an American President. We discuss the challenges he faced adapting to the different management styles and cultural norms in Chinese kitchens, being the most hated person in the room, as well as the stress and self-doubt he experienced early in his career in China. Dylan reflects on the importance of finding balance, being true to oneself, and embracing opportunities for personal growth. Bon Appétit.

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Yimin Wang is a personality development and leadership coach. He is one of the highest certified people development coaches in China, the CEO of Sense Consulting and the Global Partner of Lumina Learning. Today we explore the Lumina Spark personality assessment which measures your various personality traits and qualities. We talk about the concept of paradox in personality, where individuals can exhibit seemingly contradictory traits in different situations. We talk about the importance of empathy and its role in leadership, communication and relationships. We also get into the spectrum of accommodating versus tough personalities and how it affects conflict resolution, the value of diversity in teams and the tendency to hire people who are similar to yourself. We talk about nature vs nurture and its influence on our social development, the benefits of self-awareness to improve personal and professional relationships, and how we can get out of the box and avoid being trapped in our assumed personalities.

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James Hsu is an entrepreneur, podcaster and advisor. He helps people through the mental and emotional side of entrepreneurship and on the topic of authenticity. Today we talk about the struggle to be ourselves and pretending to be someone we're not, both in social situations and at work. We talk about how we are affected by politics and news. We talk about why James decided he can't work in large companies anymore, and some difficult lessons about people and relationships he's learned being an entrepreneur. We also talk about how our Asian self-identity has changed since living in China compared to our peers in America and Canada.

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https://www.journeytotheeast.club/

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Dawn Wong is a Stand-Up Comedian in Shanghai. Today we talk about stand-up comedy in China. We discuss censorship, cancel culture and the differences between doing comedy for Chinese and Western audiences. We talk about gender equality, her influences growing up, and her thoughts on Asian men's taste in women and porn. We also talk about how female comedians are perceived in China vs the West, cultural differences in humor, and how Chinese crowds react when you "bomb".

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Richard Brubaker is the Sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility Chairman of the American Chamber of Commerce in Shanghai, Adjunct Professor of Sustainability and Social Innovation, Founder of Collective Responsibility and host of the Sustainable Ambassador and Mission Driven podcasts. Today we talk about the state of the world through the lens of sustainability. We get into climate, urbanization, food security, water, energy and the truth about recycling. We talk about divisive opinions on climate change. We talk about sustaining modern life, growing cities, demographic changes and why China has been the best place to understand, apply and experiment with innovations in sustainability. We also discuss all the progress made, the challenges ahead and why we should focus on solving one problem at a time.

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Today we try a bilingual episode speaking Chinese with our guest Julia Shen. We talk about gender roles, relationships, masculinity, marriage and compare certain interesting behaviors between Chinese and Western culture. We try to find definitions for Chinese words that may not exist in the English language, and learn some new Chinese sayings at the same time. We talk about Julia's experience as our realtor and her observations from helping foreigners of various nationalities find homes in Shanghai.

Connect with Julia |

Official WeChat: Julia Service

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Today we talk about the flaws in our understanding of the distant past and do some reflecting as we look ahead this year. We talk about creating and capturing more memories, getting healthier, building habits, guilt and motivation. We talk about work sabotaging health, failed fitness attempts and seeking progress through habit stacking, incremental progress, self-forgiveness and self-compassion. We talk about the books Atomic Habits and Finish, and discuss what we want to do differently this year as we remain hopeful that change is coming through clarity, urgency and new life strategies.

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Today we compare our views on artificial intelligence and the human condition. We talk about the evolution of society and how AI will change the way we play the game of life. We talk about the nature of the 'game' itself. We talk to ChatGPT, debate its current usefulness and explore positive and negative societal consequences of humanity's advancing capabilities.

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Today we listen to some of our favorite songs and talk about the memorable moments in our lives they remind us of. This is the second volume of our "Life's Mixtape" series in which we combine music listening with podcasting.

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Merry Xmas! Today we exchange stories and personal experiences with bullying in school. We talk about stereotypical nerdy Asian kids when we were growing up and the troubling traumatic time many of them had going to school in America. We discuss the importance of parental awareness and emotional support to help our kids cope psychologically if ever they are bullied. We also debate the merits of Taylor Swift being named Time Magazine's Person of the Year. The discussion devolves into an argument. We then abruptly shift to talking about our wiping techniques after using the bathroom, using wet wipes versus dry toilet paper, bidets, cheap public toilet paper and dealing with unpleasant incomplete evacuation situations.

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Ashley Recanati is an author, Futurist academic and lecturer of digital ecosystems. His new book "AI Battle Royale: How to Protect your Job from Disruption in the 4th Industrial Revolution" guides workers through the perils of AI. Today we talk about practical ways to think about AI and how to protect your working future from its impact. We navigate the spectrum of doomsayers and optimists and talk about the poor understanding of our own intelligence as a species, and how that affects the conversation on Artificial Intelligence. We talk about misconceptions when it comes to AI and we reflect on other ground breaking technologies through history. We talk about our individual responsibilities to prepare ourselves and how we can start adapting our behaviors, habits and mindset to protect ourselves and our jobs from the new realities of the 21st Century.

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Today we talk about brain fog and cognitive decline. We share our personal experience with feeling dumber and discuss what might be the reasons behind it, and what we can do about it. We talk about why its so hard to speak up about intellectual weaknesses or to even admit experiencing temporary ones. We talk about daily routines and addiction to screens and phones. We discuss if global society has gotten dumber as a whole in the last few years, if ignorance is bliss, and what we should be doing to regain our cognitive fitness.

Brainwave Tuner (Howie's sound waves to optimize focus)

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Anna Yang is an award-winning advertising creative. She is the youngest ever delegate to have represented China and won gold at the Cannes Lions Festival of Creativity. She has been named one of the Top 30 creatives in China by Campaign Brief. She is also the recipient of the United Nations Common Ground Initiative Grant. Today we talk about authenticity, purpose, love and acceptance. We discuss our subconscious and Anna shares her experience with Quantum Healing Hypnosis Technique. We listen to recordings of her sessions under hypnosis and explore what might be visions of her past life. We discuss finding balance away from the extremes of pleasure and pain, and as we learn from our guest, truth is best served at room temperature.

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Today we talk to friends of the show Jackie Wang and Andrew Trapp. We discuss Andrew's decision to leave China after over a decade and Jackie's renewed perspective after leaving to live abroad and now returning to Shanghai on a visit. We talk about the factors behind Andrew deciding to move back to America and reflect on his time living in China; what he learned enjoyed, will miss, and won't miss. We discuss how his family in the Midwest was increasingly worried about him being in China, especially during the pandemic. We also talk about the small day-to-day experiences and also bigger things like personal growth and worldview. We share what brought us to China in the first place and how we've changed by being here. We also talk about preparing for reverse culture shock when going back to the US after living abroad for so long. We talk about the idea of rebuilding your life with a fresh start by moving to another country. We joke about more practical matters like getting a car and figuring out tipping etiquette. Aric and Jackie give emotional goodbyes to their close friend who will be missed.

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Today Justin and Aric reflect on inner demons or "old friends" that cause torment, such as self-doubt, unmet expectations, fear of repeating hurtful patterns, and the feeling of time slipping away. We discuss acceptance vs being content, guilt vs shame, and mindfulness. We talk about our awkward friendship and explore what makes a "one-on-one" friend. We also talk about the limits of human perspective, when false assumptions collide and zooming out across time and space to see the larger context around people, events and conflicts rather than a narrow recent view.

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Today we talk about Baby Metal, a popular Japanese Kawaii-Metal band. We talk about Asian countries re-appropriating Western culture such as Heavy Metal music and why its controversial to some. We talk about the concept of "being cool" and the need to fit into a tribe during our youth. We share our opinions on what "cool" actually means and talk about "artsy fartsy" people versus those truly rebelling against the status quo. We also compare American players to European players in the NBA. We speculate on the cultural differences that might account for the perceived difference in problematic behaviors on and off the court. We get into the idea of American exceptionalism and question if that sort of attitude is really only unique to Americans. We ask if Americans are less humble today than they were in the past and how a rich economy attracts better talent. We talk about the immigrant work mentality and if foreigners have an advantage over the local residents of a country like the US when it comes to chasing the American dream. We also talk about growing up rich vs growing up poor and what we would change about the way we were raised.

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Gabor Holch is an intercultural leadership coach, speaker and author. He has coached public leaders, CEO's and high-level decision makers in some of the largest multinational companies in over 25 countries. A former diplomat, he holds degrees in international relations, diplomacy and certifications in several assessment and coaching methodologies. His latest book "Dragon Suit" is available now. Today we discuss our human responses towards isolation, change, identity crises and technology. We talk about its affect on our careers and personal life. We talk about the power of confronting the very real question of "what is wrong with me?". We get into the difficulties of adjusting back to normal life after an acute crisis, how it may strip you of self-confidence and how these changes result in a feeling of lost identity. We talk about life's upward and downward curves, the "suit of armor" executives wear to hide their insecurities and when it might be good to show vulnerability at work and home. We are reminded not to define ourselves based on temporary weakness in our abilities. We discuss the perceived threats and benefits of AI, how many people have bosses that are now algorithms, and human fascination with fear and technology. We also get into Gabor's latest book "Dragon Suit" which exposes the complicated human stories of expat life in China over the last several years and the revealing lessons and struggles learned from his clients curated throughout his coaching career.

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Debora Malito is an author and Assistant Professor. Her work surrounds questions of sovereignty and inequality in international politics. Her current research focuses on how information is produced, international interventions and the reordering of states and political orders. She is the author of "Destabilising Interventions in Somalia". Today we unpack the intricacies of international interventions and how they often fail with disastrous consequences. Debora argues interveners often create or worsen crises that then justify intervention, debunking the myth of the "benevolent intervention". We talk about governance, inequality and the moral ambiguities of spreading democracy. We reflect on the rising geopolitical tensions of our time, and with an optimistic lens, Debora hints at a world where growing multipolarity could champion genuine global accountability. This episode was recorded right before the recent Israeli-Palestinian crisis.

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Today we learn about a series of misunderstandings that led to Aric's angry disappearance from the show last week. This gets us talking about how petty misinterpretations can often lead to larger problems. We learn about concepts like fundamental attribution bias, actor/observer bias and how we act and react emotionally without always having all the information. We talk about how we fill in the gaps with either positive or negative information, why we behave irrationally, and if the human condition has really changed since our beginnings. We discuss the Netflix show "Beef" and how relatable the characters are. We also talk about our issues with previous Asian-American casted shows and films and Asian/Minority representation in Hollywood.

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小红书: THD The Honest Drink

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Today we have no idea where Aric is. His disappearance gets us talking about what else we don't know. As we explore the mysteries of the unknown, we talk UFO's, share personal ghost stories and things we've experienced that can't be explained. We talk about sleep paralysis, deja vu and other dimensions beyond our own. We dig into human intelligence and the human experience. Whats the actual reality of how much we know versus don't know?

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Franklin Yao is the founder of Zrou, the plant-based meat alternative. He leads a team of scientists, chefs and branding leaders to create tasty food solutions such as plant-based protein alternatives to pork, beef and chicken. Through healthy, sustainable processes his company's mission is to represent China on the global food stage, with affordable, accessible and attractive food options while doing "More Good". Today we eat his Zrou chicken nuggets while we talk about how he compares Zrou to meat, what people actually want when it comes to food, KFC, the plant-based meat hype and its bad first impression in China. We get into Buddhism, mass consumerism, animal welfare, food security and ghost kitchens. We discuss why Franklin rejects plant-based advocacy and thinks trying to lecture and convert people is a bad idea. We also talk about his shocking experiences with race relations while studying in the US, teaching his kids about China and America and living a meaningful life.

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Steve Shi is a psychotherapist, podcaster, personal growth and mental health educator and writer. He is a Top 50 most influential psychology professional in China and is host of "史蒂夫说" podcast, winner of 2019 Apple Best Podcast in Chinese. He was also the official Chinese translator of Jordan Peterson's "12 Rules For Life". Today we dive into the psychology of relationships, our relationships with family, romantic partners and our relationship with culture, society, places and technology. We talk about emotional neglect, self neglect, confronting the emotional trauma within our parents and confronting repressive cultural values. We talk about "12 Rules For Life", Jordan Peterson, social media and mental health. This one turned out to be a beautiful and chaotic commentary on modern life, hopefully we walked away with a few new rules to live by.

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Jonathan Rechtman is one of the worlds top Chinese-English simultaneous interpreters and communication coach. He has served as interpreter for multiple Presidents, Prime Ministers, Fortune 500 CEOs, celebrities and Nobel Prize winners. He has also coached some of the most influential business leaders helping them with high-stakes communication skills. He is a co-founder of Next Level Communication and Cadence Translate and is passionate about helping people cross more than just linguistic barriers, but to create connection, trust and find meaning in our pursuits. Today he shares stories about his career as an interpreter, we analyze how we're interpreting the world around us, the idea of transmission loss and the quality of which we are interpreting our lived experience. We talk about being present, being aware and intentional with our life and the balance between being prepared and reactive. We talk about the widening gaps in our understanding of each other and the cycles of peace and war. We talk about high-stakes investor pitch meetings, remembering to be human and how AI may force all of us to find answers about ourselves sooner than we'd like. We also talk about interpreting what truly matters in your life and making meaning out of all the noise.

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Cyrus Janssen is a Youtuber, geopolitical analyst, speaker and investor. He is well known for his Youtube channel where he shares insights on China and his videos have nearly 50 million views. As an American, he hopes to help the world better understand China while dispelling misunderstandings about the country. Today we talk about his long awaited visit back, the state of US-China relations, his coverage of Huawei's Meng Wanzhou arrest and trial, and how Americans think about China. We talk domestic problems in both countries, why the US is losing global influence, the Taiwan situation and decoupling. We also discuss the hopes of common sense prevailing to avoid an apocalyptic war and his urgent message that when the US and China work together the world wins, and if they don't, we all lose.

Cyrus' Youtube Channel:

https://www.youtube.com/@CyrusJanssen/featured

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Jason Smith is host of The Bridge Podcast, a show focused on building bridges between East and West by going beyond the headlines to find common ground amongst perceived opposites in the world. He seeks to bridge his American home with his Chinese home through dialogue and understanding and is also a social media influencer with nearly 1 million fans. Today we drink some baijiu from Inner-Mongolia and talk about Jason's recent travels, we talk about the term "laowai" and if it's derogatory to foreigners. We discuss anti-Asian hate crimes. Jason talks about growing up in a family of Jehovah's Witnesses, the importance of having diversity of ethics and opting out of a culture of politicization. We also discuss tempering our impulse to have opinions about everything, fixing problems through finding common ground, Chinese movies and why provocative questions can be useful.

Connect with Jason on Twitter: @shangguanjiewen

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Pete Rogers is a coach and speaker on mental health, parenting, EQ and leadership. He is the Director of Counseling at Community Center Shanghai (CCS) and the founder of Rogers Consulting Group, "where EQ meets IQ". He works with International school students and their parents with mental health related issues such as stress, anxiety and sadness. His work seeks to help children and parents create emotionally healthy and vibrant families. In addition he helps professional teams with post-traumatic growth, charismatic communication, moving through conflict and exceptional leadership. He is passionate in accelerating the growth of better families, schools and companies. Today we talk about emotional trauma, anxiety and grief in a child's formative years, whether we're helping or hurting the relationship with our children, generational trauma, emotional intelligence and how parenting is really hard...even for bad parents.

Connect with Pete: www.r-c-g.com

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Josef Gregory Mahoney is Professor of Politics and International Relations at East China Normal University, Executive Director of the International Center for Advanced Political Studies and Associate Editor of the US-based Journal of Chinese Political Science. The winner of multiple research awards he was formerly a university professor in the United States and public health officer with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). He appears frequently on global news broadcasts, Chinese state media and is a regular contributor to South China Morning Post. He also serves as Senior Research Fellow with the Institute for the Development of Socialism with Chinese Characteristics. Today we talk about his disillusionment working in US government health services, his blacklisting as a professor in the US, his view of political polarization in America as a self-acknowledge Leftist, the difference between personal and private property, modern day slavery, why the CCP is not a monolith like many assume, the US strategy to contain China, climate change, Oil, de-dollarization, whether people are getting dumber and his optimism that the younger generations will fix the world… because they just might have to.

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Frank Tsai is the largest single organizer of public lectures and talks in Shanghai. He is the founder and CEO of China Crossroads, hosting the largest number of public talks on "China and the world" where he invites senior figures in academia, politics, business and foreign affairs. He is an American formerly working at Control Risks, the top global political risk consultancy and at The Economist Intelligence Unit. He also has a background teaching geopolitical risk analysis, international media and American politics. Today we talk about the Chinese and American system of centralized power vs decentralized power, freedom of speech and association, we talk about the ideology behind the tensions between the two countries, risks living in a foreign country with the potential of war, how China's communist party views the West and our experience living as Chinese-Americans in different societies and to what degree we're affected by Asian stereotypes.

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Zak Dychtwald is the author of "Young China" and the founder and CEO of the Young China Group, a think tank focusing on the evolving East and West millennial mindset and the effects of China's young generation on the global marketplace, workplace and international politics. He is a fluent mandarin speaker from northern California, TED talker, writer for the Harvard Business Review and speaks at forums and summits across the world on the topic of a people-first approach to China. Today we talk about the existing culture of pressure on China's youth and the pushback we are seeing on what it means to live "a good life". We talk about generational identity, burnout, trauma, priorities and the redefinitions of success. We discuss "China speed" and how the country's remarkable and rapid growth has defined an entire generations psychology, worldview, sense of self and expectations. We talk about unrelenting pressure from family and society to be successful. We talk about the concept of freedom and which freedoms matter more and which matter less when it comes to living unshackled by a narrow set of expectations.

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Larry Wang is a career, talent and leadership development facilitator. He has been supporting career and talent needs in China for over 30 years. He is the author of "The New Gold Mountain", "Know The Game , Play The Game" and "How To Develop Yourself As a Future Executive, Today". He works with both private individuals and top executives in the worlds most recognizable companies and shares his insights with programs such as Harvard, Wharton and Beida. Today he reflects on his personal moment of "awakening" during his first trip to China in the mid 80's and how that's led to a life of purpose. We talk about his PLSD Approach, a methodology he designed to help people create more opportunities and improve faster within their daily jobs. He also shares his takeaways from his former role of running one of China's leading recruitment agencies and the issues of human capital in China. We talk soft skills, finding your career path, risk, success and having peace with your life.

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Today we talk about video game addiction, how AI will impact society, medicine and compare Chinese and American healthcare systems. We also discuss the fading distinction between reality and digital reality and pose the question of, if there's a better reality between the two? We go on to talk about mass brain-washing, how often false narratives are pushed by the media, the imbalance in availability of dissenting perspective and the nature of public discourse in the West about China. We also get into a debate over the academy award winning film "Everything Everywhere All at Once".

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Tilman Rieger is a conflict mediator, executive coach, interpersonal communication expert and cross-cultural consultant. He is the founder of 8C Consulting and an expert in the fields of compassionate/nonviolent communication, transactional analysis and positive intelligence. Simply put, today we talk about how to more effectively communicate, collaborate and negotiate with others. We talk about ego states and personality types, conflicts between Asian and Western cultural etiquette or norms for respectful behavior. We get into the concept of self-awareness, taking ownership over your emotions and reactions, compassion, understanding needs and our inner saboteurs that make life harder.

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Today we talk about toxic masculinity and what it's supposed to mean being masculine. We talk about getting more emotional as we age and how we seem to cry much easier now. We talk about paying the bill on dinner dates and the traditional expectations between the genders of who pays, we discuss how these social norms may be changing and in the context of Western and Chinese society. We also talk about Arics wedding and how he didn't allow a "Hangover" situation.

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Charles Zeng owns the Charlie's Burger restaurant chain. As a Shanghai-based restauranteur, he recounts stories about operating during the strict 2022 lockdown. We talk pizza in China, debate over American-Chinese food and rising violence in the US. We also talk about dealing with anxiety, the "Art of being Stupid" and the "Art of War". We discuss the AI program Chat GPT, the fear of Artificial Intelligence taking over soon and we are reminded that we're the last generation to have known a world before the internet.

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Deano Delpleash is a High-Performance coach, master neurolinguistic practitioner, entrepreneur and martial artist. He helps people succeed by achieving their highest levels of performance through increasing clarity, self-awareness, purpose and action. Today we talk about how to change and improve your life. Deano tells us about his experience growing up poor, dangerous, depressed and suicidal and how he got up and got out by making some fundamental changes in himself. We talk about the gap between knowledge and action, clarity, failure, habits, NLP, hypnosis, the people you keep around, self-awareness and laying flat.

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More with Deano: https://www.ceeya.io/at/deanodelpleash-2

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Richard Turrin is the international best-selling author of "Cashless: China's Digital Currency Revolution". He is currently one of the top fintech influencers in the world. A former investment banker of 20 years, he headed the fintech teams at IBM and is an expert on finance, technology and AI. Today we discuss the buzz and controversy over China's new digital yuan (CBDC). We talk about data privacy, the disturbing truth about credit cards, hidden taxes on society, financial inclusion, crypto currency, tech companies, payment apps, government control, programmable money and social credit in the US and China.

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Today Justin and Aric question the value of following the busy news cycle. They talk about how our beliefs and politics are just narratives that either bring us together or tear us apart. They also question if human beings are just naturally wired for a zero-sum game and to want winners and losers. They talk about childbirth and pain tolerance, the ever-evolving definition of success and marching to the beat of your own drum. They also share their feelings of being frauds in life, of not having accomplished enough and desperately wanting to be liked by others.

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Alex Wang is a Vedic astrologer who's background is in mathematics. He made a dramatic shift from tech consulting to astrology under the guidance of several teachers including Sanjay Rath. Hillary Lin is a tarot card reader who has performed tarot readings for a wide range of clients helping them with decision making, mindfulness and understanding their true selves. Today we do a live reading on the show as we explore astrology and tarot for the first time. We discuss its rise in popularity and how it might help us find answers.

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Today we get nostalgic and talk about our adolescence, life and death, parents, our unborn children and music. We list some of the most impactful music albums in our lives and we share some of our favorite songs and how they became the backdrop to our youth.

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Ben Cavender is the Managing Director and Head of Strategy with the China Market Research Group (CMR). He helps Fortune 500 companies strengthen their brands positions and presence in China's consumer market. He frequently speaks internationally on innovation, technology, economic and government policy, and consumer trends. He is frequently quoted and interviewed by news outlets including The Wall Street Journal, Financial Times, New York Times, Economist, Forbes, Business Insider, BBC, CNN, CNBC, and Channel News Asia. Ben also conducts guest lectures for select MBA and corporate programs such as Harvard Business School. Today we talk about the outlook in China for life and business, big or small.

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Today the podcast resumes after a long break. We welcome ourselves back, share some personal news, talk about looming fatherhood, how we might avoid ruining a life and announce our new sponsor for this episode. Its good to be back!

This episode is indeed sponsored by www.cambly.com

Use promo code "thd888" to get 20 minutes free trial and 20% off your first month subscription of online English classes with native speakers worldwide.

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Today the gang toasts with Ardbeg whisky and shares their early experiences with drugs and alcohol. Justin argues it is better to start early than be a late bloomer. They also debate whether ignorance is bliss and we learn Aric doesn't believe in happiness. Enjoy the full episode. 🤯

James Wu is a serial entrepreneur and avid motorcyclist from California. Having spent 10 years in Shanghai after college, he has started several businesses in China and the U.S. He is currently bridging Chinese investors with real estate development in the heart of Silicon Valley. Based in Palo Alto his work also includes land acquisition and construction of luxury housing. We got to catch up with James in his recent trip back where he expressed the urgency to start repairing the damage we have done to our bodies. Enjoy the full episode. ✌️

Today the guys toast with single grain Irish Whisky. Howie opens up about his frequent panic attacks and explains why they occur and how he deals with them. We dive into the therapy of cold showers and their supposed benefits. We conclude the conversation by talking about other good habits and why you should change your perspective on "comfort zones", "fear zones" and connecting the dots in your life. Enjoy the full episode.

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Charles Zeng is a restauranteur, dog lover, and cooking show personality on tv. Raised in the U.S. and now living in Shanghai, he currently owns and operates 6 Charlie's burger chains and 2 Cantonese restaurants. In addition to burgers he also has his own beer and ice cream brands.

We talk with Charles about his restaurants, Shake Shack, bootleg alcohol and growing up poor. We also drink the best rum we've ever tasted. Needless to say we get a little tipsy. Enjoy the full episode.

Today the guys try some Teeling's Irish Whisky. At first they share some thoughts on fitness culture but then the conversation takes a hard turn to marriage and coping with its realities.

Enjoy the full episode.

Today the guys break into another new bottle of whisky. They talk about the crazy pace of China and living in its rising tide. Enjoy the full episode.

Welcome to the first full episode of The Honest Drink podcast!

Today the gang cracks open a new bottle of whisky and gets personal. They talk about possibly going through an early mid life crisis and building habits. They share personal stories and new observations as they laugh, cry and drink. Enjoy! 🥃

Dr. George Hu is an American clinical psychologist and the Chief of Mental Health at Shanghai United Family Pudong Hospital. He is also the President of the Shanghai International Mental Health Association (SIMHA). He is passionate about increasing access to mental health services and the impact of human psychology on behavior and societies. We talk about the Shanghai lockdown and its impact. We talk about building resilience and how we process negativity, fear and existential threat. We discuss the alienation between our cultural and national identities as Chinese-Americans. We also get into the role of power and privilege and the fear of losing it.

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In this episode (recorded May end) we give another update from Shanghai. We reflect on the lockdown and lessons learned. We talk about a controversial outdoor party in the city, race and stereotyping, some major headlines in the U.S., the book "Four Thousand Weeks", social media and the value of truly living your life first-hand.

A special shoutout to our honest drinker Ana for sharing the book!

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We give a status update under lockdown from Shanghai and share some thoughts on mentality, tough times and the varying responses of residents in the city. We comment on viral videos, division, central quarantine, community, victim mentality, the weakness of modern lifestyles and how we can help ourselves and each other.

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Jamie Dixon is a researcher and author in behavior, influence and communication. He creates methodologies from his research to coach his clients on productivity, leadership and motivation. His latest book, The Story Habit, talks about how to influence people through the power of storytelling. We talk about how our beliefs are formed and how they can be manipulated. We discuss the narratives in our head, shaping behavior, conflict, how to change peoples minds, propaganda, free will and religion.

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Connect with Jamie:

Website: www.shapingpaths.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrjamiedixon/

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