The Vietnamese with Kenneth Nguyen

In this episode, Ken sits down with artist, filmmaker, and Georgetown University Professor Van Tran Nguyen to talk about her highly anticipated film, The Mother Lode.Van breaks down the profound sense memories that anchor the diaspora—from sitting encapsulated under a poncho on a rainy Saigon scooter during Tết, to watching parents release generational trauma by "wailing" banned, deeply emotional music over hot pot steam in suburban basements. As a young woman of color navigating the elite, deeply political structures of academia in Washington, D.C., Van pulls no punches. She analyzes why the American system is "happy to diminish you," the toxic allure of white proximity for immigrant communities, and the heartbreaking reality of the "culture of resentment" that fractures diaspora households over politics.Inside this raw, intellectual exploration of survival and dissent:The "Saigon Ai" Song: How a forlorn, bittersweet melody became an acoustic security blanket for refugees cobbling together an identity out of American "bits and bobs."Censored Grief: The political history of Vietnam's reconstruction era music, why it was banned for "damaging morale," and how it functions as the ultimate emotional release.The Petri Dish of Georgetown: Navigating the tightrope of elite institutional funding while actively teaching students the critical scale of revolutionary power and the First Amendment.The Court Translator’s Truth: What translating in the legal system taught Van about showing up for your community, regardless of whether they understand the structural forces working against them.Calling In vs. Throwing Out: A deeply personal discussion on surviving the painful political and generational chasm with family members without losing your mind.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken attempts his first-ever full episode in Vietnamese with Cam, one of the most respected and introspective voices in the Vietnamese underground rap scene.Cam opens up about his major life transition: leaving his established fanbase in Saigon to relocate to Orange County, California. He discusses his intense struggle with homesickness, moving from a "silent war" of feeling like a perpetual tourist to finally finding a quiet rhythm in the suburban landscapes of the US. Cam pulls back the curtain on the creation of his masterpiece track "Trong Veo," explaining how a rainy day traffic jam blocking an emergency vehicle in District 10 birthed a devastatingly beautiful reflection on mortality. He also delivers a hot take on the state of global hip-hop, analyzing the boundary between appreciation and "cosplay," and why the raw, unpolished errors of analog guitar will always triumph over the sterile perfection of AI.Inside this deep dive into the immigrant creative psyche:The Blueprint of a Groove: How Michael Jackson videos, The Carpenters' melodies, and his mother singing the Journey to the West (Tây Du Ký) theme song wired Cam's brain before he turned 14.The District 10 Vision: The heartbreaking, real-life story behind the ambulance windows on Sư Vạn Hạnh street that inspired his most profound lyrics at age 20.The "Cosplay" Trap: Cam’s raw observation on watching legends like the Wu-Tang Clan live in Garden Grove, and why international artists must accept their status as "tourists" when borrowing Black American musical foundations.Saigon Rock 'n' Roll Resistance: Discovering the 1960s psychedelic hippie sounds of Carol Kim and Hùng Cường, and how that historical cross-cultural exchange legitimizes modern Vietnamese rap.Happy Accidents: Why Cam models his music after legendary TV painter Bob Ross, embracing the beautifully out-of-tune string slides over computer-assisted auto-tune.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken brings back Columbia University Professor John Phan for a deep-dive AMA responding to your comments on the history of Quốc Ngữ. John blows past standard historical narratives to explore what "literacy" actually meant in the 15th-century Lê Dynasty, revealing that ancient exam data points to an elite, highly widespread network of scholars functioning long before industrialization.They trace the mechanical leap from East Asian woodblock printing to the Gutenberg press, exposing why technology—not just a simpler alphabet—is the true engine of modern literacy. Finally, they unpack a tragic linguistic evolution: how the classical ideal of the moral gentleman (Quân Tử) was broken by colonialism, corrupt mandarins (Quan), and ultimately replaced by the French-romantic archetype of the brooding, cigarette-smoking writer (Nhà Văn).Inside this intellectual sidewalk cafe session:The 15th-Century Data: How triennial civil service exams under Lê Thánh Tông prove that rigorous literacy in Literary Sinitic (Văn Ngôn) spanned every single district in the kingdom.The Gutenberg固定 Illusion: Why the Quốc Ngữ alphabet alone didn't cause the 20th-century literacy explosion—and why mass printing technology takes the credit.The "Poison Dragon" Danger: A martial arts analogy via Mai Siêu Phong explaining the modern threat of self-validating internet algorithms and unguided reading.The Extinction of the Quân Tử: How the noble "son of a lord" shifted from an aristocratic birthright to a moral standard, before being entirely erased by colonial trauma.Brooding Icons: Why the modern archetype of greatness in Vietnam became a thin, cigarette-smoking literary figure (Nhà Văn) like Trịnh Công Sơn.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken travels to the Arrowhead Country Club to sit down with Helen Tran, the historic Mayor of San Bernardino. In 2022, Helen smashed barriers to become the first Asian American mayor in her city's history, and the first Vietnamese American woman elected mayor of any American city.  Helen shares her jaw-dropping family legacy: her father surviving a blindfolded firing squad in a Cambodian camp by digging his own grave before being saved by the Red Cross. She traces her unusual journey from an aspiring third-grade teacher to entering City Hall via a temporary placement agency, eventually rising to become the youngest HR Director during the city’s infamous bankruptcy. Helen pulls back the curtain on the raw mechanics of running a massive 65-square-mile city, the transition from a "strong mayor" system to a city manager charter, and why she is laser-focused on local results as she charges toward her June 2026 reelection primary campaign.  Inside this deep dive into localized power and grit:The Gravitational Pull of Family History: How her parents arriving with nothing—and her father’s near-death survival—recalibrates Helen's threshold for political stress.The 2016 Charter Trap: Why residents mistakenly believe the mayor can wave a magic wand, and how the modern Council-Manager system forces coalition building.The Inland Empire vs. Orange County: A raw breakdown of why neighboring cities took off while San Bernardino lagged behind, and her blueprint to capture a direct seat with the governor.The "Trash into Beauty" Strategy: How the city secured over $300 million in grant funding and utilized the Bloomberg Love Your Block program to rebuild local pride.The Disneyland Contender: The mind-blowing statistic behind the Yaamava' Tribal Casino as the second-highest tourist destination in California next to Anaheim.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken sits down with the multi-talented Thalia Tran. Since her last appearance, Thalia has transitioned from a teen musician to a "full-blown adult" navigating the high-stakes world of Hollywood.Thalia opens up about her rigorous Muay Thai training, describing combat sports as a rhythmic "dance" that has unlocked a raw, empowered version of herself. We dive deep into the complexities of being a child actor, the "vocabulary gap" between Vietnamese generations regarding mental health, and the profound lessons she learned shadowing directors on the set of Netflix's Avatar: The Last Airbender.Inside this high-energy and philosophical conversation:The Fighter’s Rhythm: Why Thalia traded the refined world of piano and voice for the "raw" environment of the MMA gym.The 50,000-Word Analogy: A breakdown of the generational disconnect in communication—why your parents might call you "complicated" when you’re simply more nuanced.The "Tangible" Career: How Thalia’s Vietnamese doctor parents went from being "nervous" to fully supportive once the Netflix checks and mainstream success arrived.Autonomy vs. Burden: The reality of child acting and why starting at 11 was the "sweet spot" for Talia’s mental health.Shadowing the Greats: Talia’s experience learning the "ultimate skill" of directing—communication—on the set of Avatar.Rejection as a Superpower: How the acting world prepared Talia to handle any "No" in life with grace and a focus on fulfillment over destination.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken takes a rare detour into the world of politics with Nina Linh, a Vietnamese-American candidate running as an Independent for California’s 40th Congressional District (CA-40).In a world defined by hyper-polarization and "Pavlovian" party loyalty, Nina argues that the true path to progress lies in the "Radical Middle." We discuss her decision to leave the Democratic Party, her commitment to absolute transparency through quarterly civilian roundtables, and the plight of the "politically homeless" voters who feel betrayed by both sides. Nina shares her "forged in fire" perspective as a first-generation immigrant and her refusal to follow "party bosses" at the expense of her constituents.Inside this deep dive into the 2026 political landscape:The "Independent Surge": Why 46% of Americans now identify as independent and how the "top-two" primary system in California is making Nina a viable threat.Bypassing the "Viper Pit": Nina’s strategy for building bipartisan coalitions without caucusing with a major party.The Quarterly Commitment: A recorded pact to host town halls every quarter to give the truth—however dark—directly to the people.The "Lesser of Two Evils" Trap: How Nina plans to stay "un-bought" in a campaign finance system designed to protect incumbents.Term Limits: Why Nina believes eight years is the maximum time anyone should serve in the House before returning to civilian life.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This conversation with Trung Bao is a journey from the gritty, rhythmic streets of the global beatbox scene to the high-tech, crystalline world of generative art. Trung represents the "new wave" of Vietnamese creators who see technology not as a replacement for humanity, but as a lens to magnify it. Trung explains that his beatboxing isn't just about mimicry; it is physically shaped by the Northern Vietnamese accent. Because Vietnamese is a monosyllabic, tonal language, the sounds are naturally "snapped" and short, acting like a built-in drum machine.The "Spice" Factor: While the global beatbox scene is becoming "standardized" (similar techniques shared via YouTube), unique cultural accents act as "spices" that separate top artists.Phonetic Advantage: Trung uses the specific tongue positions of the Vietnamese letters "D" and "B"—which move inward—to create sounds that English speakers physically cannot replicate without training.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken connects with Tuyen Do, a powerhouse of the UK creative scene. Tuyen is a "multi-hyphenate" before the term was trendy—an actress, playwright, and now novelist who broke barriers as the first Vietnamese person to grace major national stages in London.We journey through the harrowing "bookends" of her family: from her eldest brother, who survived five years alone in a British orphanage as a child refugee, to Tuyen, the youngest, who fought through paralyzing social anxiety to own her voice. They discuss the "secretive" nature of Vietnamese families, the liberation found in drama, and the massive proportional difference between the Vietnamese diaspora in the UK, Germany, and the United States.Inside this deep dive into the British-Vietnamese soul:The 12-Year-Old Pioneer: The story of Tuyen’s brother, a "boat person" picked up by a British tanker, and how his sacrifice paved the way for six siblings.From Finance to Fame: Why Tuyen spent her 20s "sleeping through" university before a community drama class at age 26 changed everything.Summer Rose: The journey of the first full-run British-Vietnamese play and its transition into a novel (releasing in the US on May 12, 2026).The "Berlin Connection": Tuyen discusses her lead role in the upcoming German-Vietnamese thriller, The Matriarch, and why Germany’s community is five times larger than Britain's.The Podcast Manifesto: Kenneth consults Tuyen on launching her own show to unite "creatives of color" and bridge the global lily pads of the diaspora.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken sits down with Duyen Ha, a culinary force whose career spans Top Chef, Chopped, and the high-octane world of NASCAR hospitality. Duyen breaks down her "2-hour student" philosophy, explaining how relentless preparation and a positive mindset allowed her to navigate the world's most stressful kitchens.We explore the "ketchup in pho" phenomenon of her childhood, the "ruthless" scrutiny of Vietnamese aunties, and why the food scene in Vietnam is currently evolving faster than its diaspora counterpart in the U.S. Duyen also reveals her "Micro-Risk" strategy for building confidence and why she believes the future of Vietnamese food is about more than just preservation—it’s about evolution.Inside this deep dive into the culinary mindset:The "Ketchup" Confession: How a childhood trick to mimic spicy sriracha became a 14-year tradition (and a lesson in American fusion).The Index Card Method: A behind-the-scenes look at the technical checklists Duyen used to stay "locked in" during Top Chef and Chopped.The 10-Minute vs. 2-Hour Student: A profound life lesson from Duyen’s father about understanding your own work ethic and intellectual pace.Vietnam’s Street Food Evolution: Why modern Saigon is putting mayo and unripe mango in spring rolls while the U.S. remains "stuck in the 70s."The "Fire" Instinct: Why Duyen actively seeks out "butterflies" and uncomfortable risks to drive her career forward.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken sits down with poet, videographer, and cultural storyteller Kavi Vu. Born in Buôn Ma Thuột and raised in Atlanta, Kavi’s journey is a masterclass in reclaiming a "ripped out" heritage.We discuss her transition from a "pre-med" student to a professional videographer, her obsession with the legendary Nguyễn Ngọc Ngạn, and the "two jobs" of the modern artist: creating the work and creating the content that feeds the algorithm. Kavi also pulls back the curtain on the high-speed world of Vietnamese Live Shopping and why dating in the diaspora feels like navigating a minefield of cultural trauma and patriarchal expectations.In this conversation:The "Kavi" Origin: How a girl named Vũ Kim Ngân created an identity that accidentally meant "Poet" in Hindi.The Nguyễn Ngọc Ngạn Influence: Why the "deep cuts" of Paris by Night poetry segments are the foundation of Kavi's style.The "Con Dâu" Trauma: A frank discussion on the "servant" expectations placed on daughters-in-law and why Western-minded women are avoiding the "Junior Servant" role.Live Shopping Chaos: How Kavi became a VIP in the high-speed world of TikTok auctions, learning "shorthand" Vietnamese from Gen Z sellers.The Content Creator’s Paradox: Why a random video about white hair gets 6 million views while a soulful poem about mom gets ignored—and how to be okay with it.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken sits down with Carl Robinson, a man who carried a secret for over five decades that could have rewritten the history of photojournalism. Carl was a key editor for the Associated Press (AP) during the Vietnam War and is the central figure in the Emmy-nominated Netflix documentary, The Stringer.We dive deep into the moment Carl was ordered by his boss to put the wrong name on the iconic "Napalm Girl" photo—an image credited with changing the course of the war. Now 80 years old, Carl reveals the "moral weight" he carried, his journey to find the real photographer in the Vietnamese countryside, and his raw, unfiltered take on the political "balloon" he’s popping in 2026.Inside this high-stakes conversation:The "Whisper" in Saigon: The exact moment Carl was told to lie and why he felt he couldn't stand up to the "celebrity machine" at the time.Finding the Ghost: How Carl tracked down the real photographer, Hoang Van Tuoi, just 24 hours before a near-fatal stroke almost silenced the truth forever.The "Divorce" Theory: Why Carl views the North vs. South conflict as a family divorce where the children (the diaspora) are still fighting over the house.Substack & To Lam: Carl's 2026 insights into the new leadership in Vietnam and why he believes the government is still "afraid" to acknowledge the South’s history.Warding off Dementia: How writing long-form journalism at 80 is Carl's secret weapon for keeping a "lucid" and sharp mind.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken reunites with Bobo, an artist whose evolution over the past two years has redefined his place in the creative world. From his roots in the Bay Area’s "Haifi" movement to his current life as a high-energy rock musician in LA, Bobo breaks down the "Identity Crisis" that fuels his art.We dive into the rare story of his father, a full-time artist who gave Bobo a unique surname at birth to ensure he would stand out. We explore how martial arts tricking became the foundation for his stage presence and why he uses makeup—inspired by David Bowie—not to hide, but to unleash a primal energy that defies traditional norms.Inside this deep dive into art and identity:The "Ziggy Stardust" Effect: Why an alter ego is the key to liberating yourself from social expectations and anxiety.The Tricking Foundation: How years of "eating shit" in martial arts prepared Bobo for the physical and mental volatility of the music business.Bay Area vs. LA: The cultural differences between growing up in the NorCal "bubble" versus the global "world stage" of Southern California.The "Lone Wolf" Problem: A candid talk about the scarcity mindset among Vietnamese creators in LA and the need for a collaborative community "powwow."The Motherland Shift: Why Bobo is finally ready to take his "brave" energy back to Vietnam’s emerging pop and rock scene.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken gathers two unique perspectives on the "State of the Union" for the Vietnamese diaspora: Phúc Mập (Hurley), the Florida-based American whose viral Vietnamese videos are teaching the community their own mother tongue, and Chris, the visionary behind the Little Saigon Official brand.We explore the "shame" that often prevents second-generation Vietnamese Americans from learning the language and the paradoxical rise of the "Ginger ambassador." From the tense political polarization of 2026 to the "dangerously fractured" state of the modern nuclear family, this conversation serves as a raw look at how a community survives 50 years after a divorce from its motherland.Inside this deep dive into cultural survival:The "Shame" Cycle: Why younger Vietnamese are regretful about losing their language and why they’d rather learn from a "foreigner" than a critical parent.Kentucky to Little Saigon: Phúc Mập’s 8-year journey as an English teacher in Vietnam and his transition to translating for nail techs in the American South.The Flag Evolution: A candid discussion on content creators like Jason (Wynn Dynasty) and Mimi who are bypassing 50 years of political lines to focus on "Culture over Politics."The Retirement Reality: Why South Vietnamese veterans are finding more "healing" in 3 weeks in Saigon than in 30 years in the US.Branding the Streets: How the "Little Saigon Official" merch is turning a 50-year-old tourist destination into a legacy worth framing.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken reunites with Bobo, an artist whose evolution over the past two years has redefined his place in the creative world. From his roots in the Bay Area’s "Haifi" movement to his current life as a high-energy rock musician in LA, Bobo breaks down the "Identity Crisis" that fuels his art.We dive into the rare story of his father, a full-time artist who gave Bobo a unique surname at birth to ensure he would stand out. We explore how martial arts tricking became the foundation for his stage presence and why he uses makeup—inspired by David Bowie—not to hide, but to unleash a primal energy that defies traditional norms.Inside this deep dive into art and identity:The "Ziggy Stardust" Effect: Why an alter ego is the key to liberating yourself from social expectations and anxiety.The Tricking Foundation: How years of "eating shit" in martial arts prepared Bobo for the physical and mental volatility of the music business.Bay Area vs. LA: The cultural differences between growing up in the NorCal "bubble" versus the global "world stage" of Southern California.The "Lone Wolf" Problem: A candid talk about the scarcity mindset among Vietnamese creators in LA and the need for a collaborative community "powwow."The Motherland Shift: Why Bobo is finally ready to take his "brave" energy back to Vietnam’s emerging pop and rock scene.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of The Vietnamese Podcast, Ken sits down with a powerhouse team: Tee Tran, a brand visionary from Montreal; his wife Bao Han, an iconic Paris by Night singer; and Michael Le, a Gen Z digital pioneer with over 50 million followers.Together, they reveal the heart behind Saigon Bonbon, a brand that is much more than a gummy company. It is a "love letter" to Vietnamese resilience, a bridge between generations, and a masterclass in cultural branding. We discuss the viral speech that moved millions, the struggle of living with Parkinson's, and why the next generation of Vietnamese "rebels" is finally ready to take center stage.Inside this deep dive into culture and commerce:The "Kỳ Lân" Philosophy: Why replacing gummy bears with Lion Dance lions (Kỳ Lân) is a daily reminder to celebrate life, not just for Tết.Resilience in Real Time: Bao Han discusses retiring from the stage due to Parkinson’s and how her "alive and positive" energy became the DNA of the brand.The Gen X vs. Gen Z Bridge: Tee explains the shift from "survival mode" to "expression mode" and how the launch party became a magical exchange between legends and newcomers.The "Vanilla of the East": A breakdown of the "Guifao" (elegant) flavor profiles, from spicy street food nostalgia to botanical lychee.Michael Le’s "Sauce": Why a global superstar is looking back to his Vietnamese roots to define his next chapter as an entrepreneur.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken is joined by filmmaker Khoa Ha to discuss her powerful debut documentary, YVAN: The Lost Sounds of Saigon.Khoa, a former graphic designer, spent a decade archiving the work of her grandfather—the legendary composer Y Vân—before ever picking up a film camera. Y Vân was the mastermind behind Vietnam’s most iconic anthems, from the upbeat "Sài Gòn" to the mournful "Lòng Mẹ."In this episode, we explore:The "Un-Jaded" Director: How coming from a design background allowed Khoa to break traditional filmmaking rules and tell a more authentic story.The Quincy Jones of Vietnam: Why Y Vân’s range—from Latin-inspired Cha-Cha-Cha to heavy rock and roll—makes him a unique figure in world music history.Healing a Nation: The movement to move past the political lines of North vs. South and unite under a shared creative heritage.The Archiving Movement: How Western labels and young DJs are sparking a resurgence in "The Lost Sounds of Saigon."Killing Your Babies: The brutal reality of cutting 90 hours of raw footage down to a tight 93-minute feature.Catch the Movement:The film is currently on its 2026 festival run, hitting cities like Atlanta, San Diego, Los Angeles, and Houston. Follow @yvan.film on Instagram for the full screening schedule and a special Orange County event at the end of May.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Ken sits down with the Tree Vo—content creator, theater kid, and the voice of a generation navigating "Vietlish" identity.Tree breaks down her transition from the high-stakes world of HR in Silicon Valley to the creative chaos of Los Angeles. We explore the "trauma-to-comedy" pipeline, why she thinks American bathroom habits are wrong, and the deep linguistic history behind Vietnamese slurs.In this episode, we explore:The "Marble Drip" Morning: How a simple coffee run turned into a graphic lesson on performance anxiety and defensive humor.Silicon Valley to Showbiz: The moment Tree realized corporate alignment was gone and her theater kid roots needed to take over.The Flow State: Kenneth analyzes the neuroscientific precision behind Tree’s seamless blending of English and Vietnamese.Bê Đê & Chinky: A heavy but necessary dive into the etymology of slurs, reclaiming identity, and the "rebel" role of Vietnamese Americans in challenging traditional families.Vietnam Dialects: Tree’s connection to Huế and why the "yelling" volume of Vietnamese content is actually a product of cultural history.AI vs. The Soul: Why ChatGPT can’t replicate the "ashy" reality of human experience or the specific comedic timing of a frustrated Vietnamese mom.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mia is the founder and host of Viet Boss Babe — a media and community platform for Vietnamese women, everywhere. From the diaspora to the homeland, Viet Boss Babe exists for the women who are rewriting what it means to be Vietnamese, on their own terms.Bold, Vietlish, and unapologetic — this is the space for the stories that don't always make it to the main stage. The careers being built, the culture being carried, the conversations happening at the dinner table that never make it online.Viet Boss Babe is where Vietnamese women come to be seen, heard, and celebrated.Follow Viet Boss Babe:https://www.instagram.com/vietbossbabehttps://www.youtube.com/@vietbossbabeWelcome to a special collaborative series between The Vietnamese Podcast and Viet Boss Babe. In this premiere episode of "Đàn ông phải thế" (Men Must Be This Way), host Mia and Kenneth Nguyen pull back the curtain on the silent struggle of the modern Vietnamese man.We explore the "Gia trưởng" (patriarchal) script that has governed Vietnamese households for centuries—the idea that a man is a provider, a protector, and above all, someone who never cries. But what happens when that script is torn up? In a world where women are dominating medical schools and out-earning their partners, where do men fit in?In this episode, we tackle:"Con trai không được khóc": The long-term psychological damage of suppressing male emotions and the fear that vulnerability will "rock the foundation" of the family.The Norwegian Warning: A startling look at how men are being left behind in education, with 99% of medical students in some countries now being women.The "Invisibility" of Women: Kenneth’s honest admission about being raised in a culture where women were socially invisible and the work required to break that conditioning.The 4 Pillars of Radical Self-Love: Mia and Kenneth discuss why meditation, journaling, the gym, and affirmations are no longer "optional" for the modern man.Learning from Gen Z: Why Kenneth believes 50-year-old men need to seek guidance from 30-year-olds to navigate modern relationship dynamics.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Upcoming Headline Show:Will is headlining his biggest show yet at Cobb’s Comedy Club in San Francisco on April 24, 2026. You can find tickets in the following link: https://willpepper.komi.io/In this episode, Ken sits down with Will Pepper (born Will Tieu). You might know him from his viral cooking videos with his "Daddy Pepper," his work managing Jimmy O. Yang’s TikTok, or as the "loan shark" in Uncle Roger’s skits.Will opens up about a life that sounds like a dark comedy script: growing up as a "nail salon kid" in Utah and Phoenix, navigating his father’s past struggles with addiction and gambling, and the surreal moment his family name was changed to "Pepper" overnight just to secure a business loan.In this episode, we explore:The "Pepper" Strategy: The wild story of how Will's dad changed the family's last name on a random Tuesday in high school to sound "more American" for credit applications.Healing Through Ayahuasca: A vulnerable look at how Will and his father used psychedelics to process intergenerational trauma and reconcile their past.The Comedy Grind: Will’s journey from "boring" pre-med student to moving to LA, managing major stars, and finally finding his own voice on stage.Honoring Alex Jung: A tribute to the late Vietnamese comedian and the tight-knit community of "Viets in Comedy" who keep the grind going.The "Retarded" Intelligence of Comedy: Why being a great comic requires high emotional intelligence and the ability to "read the room" rather than traditional book smarts.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Kevin Quach was born and raised in the Atlanta, Georgia area to Vietnamese parents. He is an Aerospace Engineer (BSAE Georgia Tech 2014) who has worked the past 3 years for Blue Origin where he tests rockets that will bring humanity to work and live in space. Kevin has previously worked at Sikorsky (Lockheed Martin) for almost 8 years, where he tested experimental helicopters for the Marines and the Army. He currently lives in Orlando, Florida with his wife Thanh who works in the Vietnamese and American film industry. Kevin also runs a small rental property business in Florida. In this fascinating episode of The Vietnamese Podcast, host Kenneth Nguyen sits down with Kevin Quach, an Aerospace Engineer at Blue Origin. From working on experimental heavy-lift helicopters like the Sikorsky CH-53K to testing the next generation of rockets at Cape Canaveral, Kevin brings a grounded, technical perspective to the most "out of this world" topics.Kevin walks us through the rigorous world of flight test engineering, the reality of working in an industry where "failure is not an option," and how the laws of physics finally put the moon landing conspiracy theories to rest.In this episode, we dive into:Debunking the Hoax: Why the math and physics of 1969 are immutable, and the "PR" reality behind famous space photography.The "Jack of All Trades": What it actually takes to become an aerospace engineer and the grit required to survive "experimental" flight tests.Helicopters vs. Rockets: A surprising comparison of mechanical complexity—why mastering the rotor head is a different beast than mastering a launch vehicle.Blue Origin’s Mission: Moving beyond "space tourism" to build an infrastructure "for the benefit of Earth," including manufacturing solar panels from lunar dust.The Lunar Gateway: How the 2026 Artemis missions are creating a "gas station/rest stop" in lunar orbit to enable deep space travel.Aerospace in Vietnam: The potential for VinSpace and Viettel and the complex political "ITAR" hurdles for engineers in the diaspora.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: <a href='https://redcircle.c

In this episode, The Vietnamese Podcast joins forces with Little Saigon Official to ask the ultimate question: Are we too obsessed with our past to build our future?Host Kenneth Nguyen, Chris, and Dana dive deep into the "Identity Loop." We discuss why the diaspora is "addicted to angst" while Vietnam is already moving at light speed, and whether our "biological pull" to the motherland is a gift or a golden cage.Inside this discussion:The "Pungent" to "Fragrant" Shift: How Little Saigon successfully rebranded Vietnamese culture for the world.The "Broken" Fragment: Why we feel a biological need to return to the "ocean" of the motherland.Standstill vs. Creation: Breaking the cycle of "Am I Vietnamese enough?" to start making things that matter.The Global Platform: Why we need an intentional "council" to push the Vietnamese brand forward in 2026.Are you ready to stop searching for who you are and start creating what you want to be? Join the conversation in the comments.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome to The Vietnamese Podcast, hosted by Kenneth Nguyen. In this episode, we sit down with Nguyễn Owen Tangavelou, a French-Vietnamese Formula 3 (F3) driver who is on a singular mission: to become the first person of Vietnamese descent to reach the pinnacle of motorsport—Formula 1.Owen’s journey is far from typical. Unlike most F1 stars who begin karting at age 4, Owen didn't step into a cockpit until he was 14. From playing F1 video games to pulling $4G$ in a real race car, Owen discusses the grit, the late-start disadvantage, and the staggering financial reality of the "pay-to-play" world of professional racing.In this episode, we explore:The Racing Ladder: Breaking down the progression from F4 to the $1.5$ million Euro seasons of F3 and the "feeder" system for F1.The Physics of Speed: What it feels like to endure $5G$ to $7G$ of force—gravity levels usually reserved for fighter pilots.The Money Game: The brutal truth about racing—why talent isn't always enough and why Owen is seeking Vietnamese investors to help bridge the funding gap.National Pride: Why bringing a Vietnamese name to the F1 grid represents more than just a career—it’s a demonstration of national power and the "indomitable spirit" of the people.Owen is currently balancing business school in France while training for his next shot at the track. If you’ve ever wondered what it takes to drive at 300+ km/h or how the business of racing actually works, this conversation is for you. Subscribe to join Owen’s journey to the grid.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Welcome back to The Vietnamese Podcast. In this episode, Kenneth sit down with scholar Kevin Phan to dissect one of the most radical experiments in Vietnamese history: the Tonkin Free School (Đông Kinh Nghĩa Thục).Opened in Hanoi in 1907, this school lasted only 10 months before the French colonial government shut it down—but those 300 days changed the trajectory of the nation forever. We explore how a tiny group of intellectuals, inspired by Japan's Meiji Restoration, attempted to "enlighten the Vietnamese mind" by abandoning ancient Confucian rote-learning in favor of science, hygiene, and a brand-new Romanized script.In this episode, we tackle:The Death of Tradition: Why cutting your hair and learning math was seen as a radical act of patriotism.The "Dictator's Dilemma": The tension between needing a smart, educated workforce and the fear that those same people will think for themselves.Humboldt vs. Napoleon: Understanding the two models of education—building an "economic powerhouse" versus cultivating a "free citizen."2026 Realities: From mandatory Marxism-Leninism courses in Saigon to book banning in Florida, we look at the global state of academic freedom today.Key Historical Insights:Japanese Influence: How Japan's 1905 victory over Russia proved to the Vietnamese that "white people" could be defeated through modernization.The Power of the Map: Why showing villagers an S-shaped map of Vietnam for the first time was a revolutionary act.Social Darwinism: The uncomfortable 1900s ideology that framed colonialism as a "survival of the fittest" race.Whether you're interested in the roots of Vietnamese nationalism or the modern battle over what we are allowed to teach in 2026, this conversation is essential. Subscribe to join the intellectual front line.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Building a $100 million hospitality empire isn't just about good food; it’s about a relentless pursuit of "what’s next."In this episode, we sit down with Viet Nguyen, the visionary founder of KEI Concepts and a recent James Beard Award semi-finalist. From a single storefront to a portfolio of iconic brands that have redefined the Southern California dining scene, Viet has cracked the code on scaling culture without losing soul.We’re recording on-site at his most ambitious project yet: Qua. Located in the heart of Orange County’s Little Saigon, Qua isn't just a restaurant—it’s a "Chinese culinary experiment" that challenges traditional boundaries.In this conversation, we dive into:The Blueprint for Scale: How Viet transitioned from a solo founder to managing a multi-million dollar hospitality group.The "Qua" Experiment: The deep-rooted inspiration behind his newest venture and why he chose to innovate within the legendary landscape of Little Saigon.Cultural Fusion vs. Confusion: How to respect culinary heritage while pushing the envelope for a modern audience.The James Beard Journey: What it means to receive national acclaim and how it changes (or doesn’t change) the daily grind of the industry.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we welcome back Peter from the popular channel Broke the Habit.Since we last spoke in 2024, Peter’s journey has been a whirlwind of high-stakes media jobs, intense burnout, and a profound psychological reset. Now, in 2026, he is "locking in" to content creation full-time, navigating the streets of Nha Trang and the complex emotional landscape of the Viet Kieu (Overseas Vietnamese) experience.In this episode, we dive into:The Scarcity vs. Abundance Mindset: How intergenerational trauma from the refugee experience creates a "survival mode" that follows us even when we find financial success.The "Hoa Le" of Saigon: Exploring the stark contrast between the extreme wealth of international districts and the gritty reality of local life in District 8.Breaking the Parental Guilt: The heavy burden of the "eldest son" and the drive to become a millionaire to "repay" the sacrifices of our parents.Vietnam as a Passage of Rites: Why every member of the diaspora should return to the motherland for 2–3 months to truly understand their own identity.Whether you are in Vancouver, Little Saigon, or Hanoi, this conversation is about more than just travel—it's about breaking habits and finding the courage to say "I love you" to a culture that shaped you.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we explore the "Stories We Carry" with a powerhouse panel of creators:Brittany Tran: Founder of Real Citrus, a film distribution company bringing diaspora stories to the big screen.Duzan Duong: Czech-Vietnamese director of Summer School 2001, sharing the unique perspective of Northern Vietnamese migration to Eastern Europe.Hien: A Hungarian-born singer-songwriter blending traditional roots with modern sounds.What we dive into:The North-South Divide: How the history of migration to Europe differs from the American experience.Reclaiming Identity: The role of film and music in navigating "displacement trauma" and representing our community.The Future of the Diaspora: Why 2026 is the year of global creative collaboration and "co-authoring" our narrative with the world.Whether you're a first-generation immigrant or a third-generation creative, this is where we celebrate our shared heritage and the abundance of our future. Subscribe to join the journey.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of The Vietnamese Podcast, Kenneth sits down with Quentin J Nguyen-duy, a rising star in Hollywood known for NBC’s Hunting Party and his viral, socially conscious comedy skits.Quentin opens up about the "war of attrition" that is the acting world—revealing how he survived over 11,000 rejections across a decade by mastering a mental "Fruit Ninja" technique to slice through insecurity. We dive deep into his unique experience as a white-passing individual navigating the Vietnamese diaspora, moving from a childhood where he felt he had to "hide" his heritage to now lead the charge in celebrating it through Viet Salon and learning the language.Key highlights from this conversation:The Mixed Experience: Navigating identity when you look like an "outsider" but your DNA is 50% Vietnamese.10 Years of "No": How to stay "undamageable" when the industry rejection rate is 98%.The Saigon Cinema Boom: Why Quentin believes Vietnamese cinema will be as big as Korean cinema in the next 10 years.Vertical vs. Horizontal: The evolution of media and whether "micro-dramas" on our phones will eventually replace the silver screen.Whether you're a creative looking for the grit to survive the "tundra" of your career or someone reconnecting with your roots, Quentin’s story is a powerful reminder that it's never too late to step into your truth. Subscribe to join the conversation.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

From the "hoods" of Columbus, Ohio, to designing the hat LeBron James wore for his 40th birthday, Khanh Ngô has never played by the rules. In this episode, Kenneth Nguyen sits down with the founder of NGO (Nothing Goes Overnight) to discuss the grit required to make it in the cutthroat world of LA fashion.Khanh opens up about his journey through corporate giants like Levi’s and Urban Outfitters, and why he famously demanded HBO recut his segment on the reality series The Hype to stop pushing "weak" Asian stereotypes.In this episode, we dive into:The "Midwest Pedigree": Growing up Vietnamese in predominantly Black urban neighborhoods and how it shaped his design aesthetic.Systemic Bias: Why global brands spotlight Japanese and Korean creators while overlooking Southeast Asian talent.The HBO Scandal: Khanh’s firsthand account of Hollywood's "identity angst" and why he refused to play the victim on camera.Vietnam 2026: Why the Motherland is poised to become the next "Tokyo" for global fashion and culture.Whether you’re a creative looking to break into the industry or interested in the complex identity of the Vietnamese diaspora, this conversation is a masterclass in standing your ground and betting on yourself.Follow the Guest:Instagram: @madebyngoFollow The Vietnamese Podcast:Instagram/TikTok/Facebook: @thevietnamesepodcast--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Kenneth Nguyen sits down with actor and activist Ryan Alexander Holmes. As we navigate February 2026, Ryan shares his perspective as a "Blasian" American—the son of a Black father from the South and a Chinese immigrant mother from Taiwan.The conversation moves beyond the surface of "identity politics" to explore how race, class, and the American educational system shape our reality. Ryan argues that the "predator class" (the ultra-wealthy) benefits from social divisions that keep working-class communities of color from organizing for their collective interests.Key Discussion PointsThe Spectrum of Privilege: Ryan discusses growing up in the "cusp" of privilege, where every extra dollar was funneled into education rather than luxury.The American "Science Fair" Experiment: Why the US education system often misses the mark on minority history by miles, leaving communities to educate themselves.Radical Empathy as Revolution: How to handle the "Let Them" theory when facing criticism from within our own communities.The Billionaire "Predator Class": A deep dive into why 0.1% of the population controls astronomical wealth while 90% faces stagnant wages and rising costs.Black-Asian Solidarity: Ryan introduces Bloom, his cross-cultural organization designed to move past "tragedy-based" solidarity and toward shared joy and community.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we sit down with Ethan Kelly, widely known to millions of fans as "Uc Viet". In 2026, the landscape of content creation in Vietnam is shifting, and Ethan is at the forefront of it—but his journey didn't start with likes and follows. It started with a real-life business failure in Australia and a "fate-driven" trip to a remote village in Lam Dong that turned his life around.Ethan starts out addressing the "elephant in the room"—the battle of the flags—with the unique, non-biased perspective of an outsider who has lived the history from both sides of the ocean. From diving into putrid, biologically hostile rivers to clean up trash, to spitting bars with Vietnamese rappers, Ethan’s story is a masterclass in radical empathy and cultural immersion.What We Explore in This EpisodeThe Flag Conversation: How Ethan processes "bullets" of political hostility and navigates the sensitive history of the Vietnamese diaspora.The 1-Year Fluency: How Ethan mastered a "sharp" Hanoi accent and advanced literacy without ever stepping foot in a formal classroom.Dirty Jobs, Big Impact: The reality of cleaning Vietnam’s polluted waterways and how one viral video can mobilize hundreds of volunteers.Fate & Faith: The "ego-shattering" experience of losing a $6M company and finding a new life in a trade-based mountain community.The "Weapon" in the House: Ethan’s heartfelt tribute to his Vietnamese wife and why he believes the traditional family unit is the "rock" of society.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

The gloves are off in this conversation between Kenneth and Dr. Thao Ha. It’s 2026, and the political climate in the United States has reached a boiling point. While many are "flooded" by the chaos of the news cycle, Dr. Ha is in the trenches, navigating the complex and often heartbreaking reality of mass deportations affecting the Vietnamese, Lao, and Cambodian communities.In this episode, we move past the "professional hats" to discuss the raw reality of identity, integrity, and the "Let Them" approach to life. Dr. Ha reveals the inner workings of her nonprofit, Collective Freedom, and why she believes the "American Dream" is currently disintegrating for thousands of refugees who have lived here for decades.What We ExploreThe Integrity Practice: Why Dr. Ha stopped shopping on Amazon and other major corporations as a form of "soul conditioning."The "Let Them" Theory: How to maintain your peace (and your relationships) when the people you love support policies that you strongly disagree with.The Hidden Crisis: The technical reality of Southeast Asian deportations. Many don't realize that old criminal convictions—some from the 1990s—are now being used to tear families apart in 2026.Dignity On Sale: How Dr. Ha provides legal clarity to families who are being told they need to pay $30,000 in legal fees for cases that have no relief.Love Letters to the Dirty South: An exclusive teaser of Dr. Ha’s upcoming memoir (September 2026), detailing her journey from Houston gang life to academic life.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Kenneth sits down with Lynda Trang Dai, for a conversation that is as vulnerable as it is refreshing. For decades, Lynda has been a household name, synonymous with provocative stage presence and the "New Wave" sound that defined a generation. But behind the racy costumes and the rockstar persona lies a grounded woman whose life is based on a surprising level of traditionalism and deep-rooted faith.Lynda sets the record straight on the headline-grabbing Gucci store incident in Orlando, Florida. She walks us through the petty misunderstanding involving a $330 AirPods case, the rush of a performance schedule, and the reality of facing a legal firestorm in the public eye. In This Episode, We Explore:Lynda gives a step-by-step account of exactly what happened that day in Florida, from the perfume purchase to the accidental concealment, and how much positivity came from the online community.Arriving in the 70s from San Diego to Orange County, Lynda reflects on her upbringing after arriving in the U.S. at age 10 and how that displacement fueled her drive to create something entirely new.What it was like to be the first Vietnamese American artist to break the mold, singing in English, and building a bridge for the younger generation when there were no idols to turn to.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We’re back with Whitney Da’Gail for part two of a conversation that we realized was far from over. After Kenneth and Whitney met in person in Saigon, the weight of the questions felt unanswered: What are the deep, structural similarities between Black American culture and Vietnamese culture? And why does a Black woman feel a sense of peace in a "homogenous" Asian society that she can't find in her own backyard?In this episode, we dive into the "American Science Fair Project"—the ongoing experiment of identity, language, and power. Whitney shares her raw reflections on the Bad Bunny Super Bowl controversy, the theatrical survival roots of the Black Church, and the uncomfortable parallels of colorism that haunt both our communities.What we explore in this session:The Bad Bunny Trigger: Why a Spanish-language halftime show exposed the "gatekeeping" of American identity.The North vs. South Divide: Comparing the 120-day "background check" of Hanoi to the social conditioning of the American South.Colorism & Class: From the "house vs. field" slave dynamics to the multi-billion dollar skin-whitening industry in Asia—why are we so "basic"?The "Cici's Pizza" Incident: Whitney recounts a harrowing personal story of how four police officers were called to escort a Black female engineer out of a restaurant over a salad—a stark reminder that "status" doesn't provide armor in America.Uncentering America: Why Whitney believes stepping away from the "foundation of hate" in the US was the only way to restore her hope in humanity.This is a deep dive into the nuances we often ignore. It’s about communication, the language of ancestors, and the courage it takes to unsubscribe from a narrative that no longer serves you.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Kenneth sits down with Kathy Uyen Nguyen, film industry veteran, acting directing, producing and and now the founder of Vietnam’s acting academy.Kathy breaks down the psychological breakdown of charisma, explaining why "The It Factor" isn't a genetic lottery but a state of being that anyone can develop, if they can navigate the cultural "rào cản" (obstacles) that hold them back. They dive deep into the differences between the Western "equality-based" mindset and the Vietnamese hierarchy of respect, and how these dynamics shape the way we express our true selves.What We Explore in This EpisodeThe Recipe for Confidence: Why Kathy views confidence as a "soup" made of thoughts, emotions, and physical freedom.Cultural Suppression: How the Vietnamese honorific system (Anh, Chị, Em) can sometimes create subconscious boundaries that inhibit artistic expression.The 2026 Cinema Boom: A look at the unprecedented growth of the Vietnamese film industry, with a record-breaking 70-80 productions hitting screens this year.The AI vs. Analog Debate: Can a robot replicate the "core wounds" and imperfections that make a human performance resonant? Kenneth shares a chilling story of being "tricked" by AI-generated soul music for six months.Acting for Life: Why 50% of Kathy's students aren't actors at all, but dentists, coders, and parents looking to "unlock" their emotional intelligence.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, Kenneth sits down with Dr. Lu Le, a Navy veteran and psychiatrist who bridges a massive gap in the Vietnamese community. From serving in the military to embarking on medical missions in Vietnam, Dr. Lu offers a unique, bilingual perspective on why we struggle to talk about our feelings and how we can finally start healing.Whether you are curious about the mechanics of psychiatric medication or wondering why your kids can't put down their phones, this conversation explores the "hardware" and "software" of the human mind.In This Episode, We Explore:The Modern Vietnam Shift: Why watching 20,000 people at a Mỹ Tâm or Hà Anh Tuấn concert signifies a "hard reset" for Vietnamese identity globally.Psychiatry vs. Psychology: A clear breakdown of who prescribes the meds, who does the talking, and why the "starter package" for PTSD requires both.The "Honorific" Barrier: How our beautiful culture of deference (dạ, thưa, bác, chú) can sometimes become an impediment to emotional intimacy and honesty.Big Pharma & Addiction: Dr. Lu addresses the stigma around "pills" and explains the scientific difference between life-saving medication and dependency.The Dopamine Trap: A powerful segment in Vietnamese about how AI, TikTok, and "doom scrolling" are hijacking the reward centers of our brains—and what parents can do about it.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Have you ever wondered why Vietnamese is written with a Romanized alphabet while its neighbors, China, Japan, and Korea, historically used character-based systems?In this episode, Kenneth and Professor John Phan discuss the "startup age" of the Vietnamese script. We journey back to the 17th century to discover that Chữ Quốc ngữ wasn't just a colonial imposition, but a complex collaboration involving Portuguese pioneers, Italian linguists, and forgotten local consultants.What We Explore:The "Hip-Hop" Age of Nôm: How the 17th-century explosion of vernacular literature set the stage for a new way of writing.The 3 G’s (God, Gold, and Glory): Why missionaries like Francisco de Pina and Alexander de Rhodes were the first "field linguists" in Vietnam.The Great Identity Crisis: Why 20th-century Confucian elites feared that abandoning Chinese characters would mean the "extinction" of the Vietnamese soul.From Niche to National: How cheap literary magazines like Nam Phong and the abolition of the civil service exams in 1919 turned a missionary tool into a weapon of anti-colonial empowerment.The "Pure" Vietnamese Fallacy: A deep dive into why there is no "essential" Vietnamese identity—only a beautiful, ever-changing aggregation of influences."There is no quintessential essence to being Vietnamese. It’s an aggregation of different things that changes over time. You have to be a little Buddhist about it." — John Phan--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Life does not follow a single set of rules, and the “truths” shaped by personal experience do not always align with what most people believe. Some lessons only become clear after facing real-life challenges.In episode 375 of the Vietnam Innovators podcast, stepping away from its usual focus on economics, markets, and innovation, host Hao Tran speaks with podcaster Kenneth Nguyen in an open conversation about 15 life “truths” drawn from lived experience—perspectives that not everyone will easily agree with.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

We explore a perspective rarely captured in the mainstream narrative of Southeast Asia. Join Kenneth as he sits down with Whitney Da’Gail, a Louisiana native and MBA graduate from the University of Michigan, who moved to Vietnam and discovered a world that was both shockingly foreign and deeply familiar.Whitney opens up about her journey as a Black woman navigating the streets of Hanoi and Saigon. From the overwhelming "celebrity" treatment in rural villages to the challenging moments of colorism in local shops, Whitney provides a raw and honest look at what it means to be "seen" in a homogenous society. She reflects on how Vietnam has forced her to confront and heal American traumas, and why she sees the resilience of the Vietnamese people as a source of hope for marginalized communities everywhere.In this episode, we discuss:Colonized Cousins: The surprising cultural and culinary overlaps between Vietnam and Louisiana.The "Where are you really from?" Question: Navigating identity when your American-ness is questioned for the first time.Reframing the Stare: How Whitney moved from a defensive posture to finding joy in her interactions with locals.Healing Through Travel: Why Whitney believes Vietnam "chose" her to help prepare her for a global stage.Building "Homie": Whitney’s new venture to create vetted, safe community spaces for expats and travelers in Vietnam.Whether you're an expat, a traveler, or someone interested in the evolving social fabric of Vietnam, Whitney’s insights on unity, ignorance, and the power of "finding your homie" are not to be missed.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Join Kenneth and political theorist Kevin as they unpack Kevin's research on "Buddhist Political Theory." Was Thich Tri Quang a peace-loving monk, a communist agent, or, as Time Magazine once called him, a "Vietnamese Machiavelli"?We explore the uncomfortable contradictions of history: Why would a Buddhist monk advocate for a high-intensity American bombing campaign? How did his belief in spiritual "flourishing" drive him to participate in the downfall of the Ngo Dinh Diem government? And why did the American media find him so elusive?In this episode, we discuss:Beyond the Orange Robe: The difference between "socially engaged Buddhism" and the anti-political traditions of the past.The "Machiavellian" Monk: Applying the philosophy of The Prince to the strategy of the 1960s Buddhist uprising.Catholic vs. Buddhist Tension: Kenneth and Kevin reflect on their own Catholic upbringings and the "tribalism" that defined their parents' views on Buddhism.Spiritual Politics: The fascinating argument that Buddhism is "anti-political" yet uses politics as a necessary tool to create conditions for enlightenment.Whether you are a student of history or simply curious about the intersection of faith and power, this episode offers a new lens through which to view the struggle for the soul of South Vietnam.https://kyotoreview.org/issue-35/thich-tri-quang-the-machiavellianism-of-buddhist-political-theory/--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In April 1975, the world watched as South Vietnam collapsed. But for those on the deck of the USNS Kimbro, it was a desperate, chaotic, and human struggle for survival.In this episode, we bring together two sides of history that were separated for half a century. Kenneth and co-host Nam C. Kim are joined by John Irwin and Robbie Parsley, two U.S. Marines who served as security forces during Operation New Life.This conversation explores:The myth of the “bloodbath” after 1975What it meant to stay, not be “left behind”Life in Saigon during the first months after the warReeducation camps, U.S. embargoes, and historical omissionsHow propaganda shapes memory in the Vietnamese diasporaThese veterans share the memories of what it was like to be 18-year-old soldiers tasked with managing a humanitarian crisis they weren't trained for. They recount the sight of overloaded barges, the tragic burial of a woman who couldn't bear to leave her homeland, and the miracle of a baby born on a crowded freighter, a child named "Kimbro" in honor of the ship that carried him to freedom.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

What really happened after April 30, 1975?In this reflective episode, Kenneth sits down with Claudia Krich, author of Those Who Stayed: A Vietnam Diary, one of the very few Americans, and perhaps the only white woman, who chose to remain in Vietnam after the fall of Saigon.Through firsthand diary accounts and lived experience, Claudia challenges one of the most enduring narratives of the Vietnam War: the myth of an immediate bloodbath. She recounts the days, weeks, and months after the war ended—when tanks rolled in, soldiers walked the streets unarmed, families reunited after decades, and daily life quietly resumed while the world believed Vietnam had gone silent.This conversation moves beyond politics into memory, propaganda, reconciliation, and the emotional weight carried by the Vietnamese diaspora. If you ever questioned what you were taught about the war, this conversation may challenge, unsettle, and expand how you see the past.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode of Viet History Makers, Kenneth Nguyen sits down with Professor Kevin Pham to examine the life and times of Madame Nhu (Trần Lệ Xuân) one of the most controversial and influential figures in 20th-century Vietnamese history. Through their conversation, the episode unpacks Madame Nhu not only as the de facto First Lady of South Vietnam, but as a complex symbol of power, gender, and political authority during the Cold War.Kenneth and Kevin explore Madame Nhu’s background, political rise, and outspoken public persona, situating her within the turbulent landscape of South Vietnam in the 1950s and early 1960s, a period marked by ideological conflict, international pressure, and internal instability. They discuss how her rhetoric, policies, and media presence shaped both domestic opinion and global perceptions of the Ngô Đình Diệm regime.The episode also examines why Madame Nhu became such a polarizing figure, raising broader questions about leadership, accountability, and historical memory. By revisiting her legacy through a critical and nuanced lens, this conversation reveals why Madame Nhu remains a powerful and unsettling reflection of Vietnam’s modern political history.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information! Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

If you joined us last time for the episode "What Is Chữ Nôm? Premodern Vietnamese Hip Hop? " we are here to answer your questions on this AMA based on the questions we got from the last podcast with Professor John Phan from Columbia University.We’ve gathered some of the most thoughtful questions from our last episode from the listeners, and I’m excited to dive deeper into the topics we touched on in the last episode, clarify some points, and explore a few new ideas that came up. -------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we sit down with Quang X. Pham — a Vietnamese American leader whose life story reveals stories of resilience, service, and reinvention. Born in Saigon and arriving in the United States as a refugee at just ten years old, Quang’s early years were shaped by language barriers, new cultures, and the emotional burden of a father left behind in post-war Vietnam.From there, he charted an extraordinary path: earning an economics degree from UCLA, answering the call to serve in the U.S. Marine Corps, and becoming the first Vietnamese American Marine Corps aviator, flying CH-46 helicopters in the Gulf War and Somalia.After military service, Quang didn’t slow down, he entered into the business world, becoming a pharmaceutical sales leader before founding multiple companies. As an entrepreneur he raised millions, launched and sold successful ventures, and eventually founded Cadrenal Therapeutics, a Nasdaq-listed biotech company developing life-changing therapies. Along the way he became the first American of Vietnamese heritage to lead a biotech IPO on Nasdaq and earned prestigious recognition such as the BioFlorida Executive of the Year Award.His philosophy on duty, effort, and resilience, themes he explores deeply in his books, including his memoir A Sense of Duty and his latest leadership guide Underdog Nation.This episode is a textured look at how one man’s journey bridges cultures, battles, boardrooms, and breakthroughs. Whether you’re chasing dreams or redefining them, this is a story that will stay with you.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit https://www.vietnamstorybank.com/ today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we sit down with Cathy Linh Che—a poet and filmmaker who grew up in Los Angeles, and the producer of the short documentary We Were The Scenery. Through an intimate conversation, Cathy shares her upbringing and how growing up between cultures shaped the way she sees the world. We dive into the making of We Were The Scenery, unpacking its emotional core and why telling stories like this matters—especially in a time when representation, memory, and identity continue to be overlooked.You can find out more information and watch the documentary here: https://www.wewerethesceneryfilm.com/--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit vietnamstorybank.com today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Mai Whelan is a Vietnamese American woman who became the Season 1 winner of Squid Game: The Challenge. Mai shares her life story, beginning as a young refugee who fled Vietnam at eight years old after the fall of Saigon, to becoming a U.S. Navy service member at just eighteen. She went on to serve two decades in the Navy before continuing her public service career as a visa interview adjudicator for the U.S. government.Her journey is defined by resilience, sacrifice, and a determination to rebuild life from the ground up — the same strength she later carried into the intense world of Squid Game: The Challenge.Competing against 456 contestants, Mai relied on her discipline, clarity, emotional intelligence, and unwavering composure to make it to the finale and ultimately win the $4.56 million prize. What set her apart was not just strategy, but her ability to stay true to her values under pressure.In this podcast, Mai opens up about the experiences that shaped her — from military life to motherhood, from navigating the immigration system to surviving fierce competition on a global stage.She also reflects on what kept her going every. Mai is a testament that no matter your background or hardships, you can rise, rebuild, and redefine your future.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit vietnamstorybank.com today for more information.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Director Bao Nguyen sits with Kenneth to discuss his latest documentary, The Stringer, which premiered on Netflix on November 28, 2025. The film undertakes a meticulous investigation into the true authorship of the iconic “Napalm Girl” photograph, long attributed to Pulitzer Prize winning photographer Nick Ut. Through exhaustive research, rare archival materials, and gripping interviews, The Stringer reopens a decades-old question that challenges our understanding of historical truth.Beyond its central mystery, the documentary offers viewers a deeper look into journalistic ethics, the politics of wartime reporting, and the fragile nature of historical memory. It’s a must-watch for anyone interested in Vietnam War history, photography, investigative storytelling, or the complexities behind how iconic images shape global narratives. Their discussion highlights not only the film’s meticulous craftsmanship but also its emotional and cultural significance.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit vietnamstorybank.com today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dr. Jay Veith, a longtime researcher of the Vietnam War and POW/MIA history take a deep look at the more than $85 million the U.S. government has spent over the past decade to work with the Vietnamese government in searching for remaining American POW/MIA personnel.We explore a central question: Is the return on investment (ROI) worth it? Does continued U.S. spending on this effort truly deliver value—whether humanitarian, diplomatic, or strategic—or is it primarily a way to keep relations with the Vietnamese government running smoothly after all these years?Dr. Veith offers candid insights, historical context, and analysis of the political and diplomatic considerations behind this long-standing cooperation. This conversation sheds light on the ongoing commitment to bring closure to the families of missing service members, while also examining the complex balance between humanitarian priorities and national-level strategy.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit vietnamstorybank.com today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this episode, we sit down once again with branding expert Chris Do for a powerful and honest conversation about creativity, culture, and the future of Vietnam. We explore why Vietnam has yet to produce globally recognized brands, exploring the structural, cultural, and economic challenges that hold creators back—along with the incredible potential waiting to be unlocked.Chris reflects on the unwavering dedication of Japanese craftsmen, whose mastery comes from generations of focus, discipline, and intention. Together, we examine what Vietnam can learn from this mindset, and how intentional craft could reshape the country’s creative identity.We also talk about the importance of focus, purpose, and long-term thinking for anyone hoping to build meaningful work—whether in design, entrepreneurship, or personal development. Chris shares insights from his second trip back to Vietnam, offering a candid look at the nation’s current trajectory and what he hopes to see in its creative future.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit vietnamstorybank.com today for more information!Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

As we honor Veterans Day in the United States today, join Kenneth for a conversation with Tino Dinh and Thomas Nguyen — two Vietnamese American veterans who have proudly served on the board of the Vietnamese American Uniformed Services Association (VAUSA).The Vietnamese American Uniformed Services Association is a truly unique organization, distinguished by its rich heritage and vibrant culture. United by a shared commitment to public service, Vietnamese American military members work together to uphold the legacy of their ancestors’ courage and devotion. Through their service in uniform, they continue to exemplify compassion, respect, and a deep sense of purpose — the very values that form the foundation of VAUSA.VAUSA info: https://www.wearevausa.org/Tino Dinh is a management and technology consultant and tech entrepreneur. He is a former board member of VAUSA and is active in the Vietnamese-American and AAPI community and in various Veteran organizations. Tino served for 8 years as a USAF intelligence officer and Asia regional specialist. He deployed as an military advisor to Iraq in 2004. He is a 1999 graduate of the US Air Force Academy and received his MBA from the University of Virginia's Darden School of Business. A native of Houston, Tino currently resides in Northern Virginia with his wife and two sons.Thomas Nguyen retired as a colonel after serving 30 years in the U.S. Army. He was born in Saigon, Republic of Vietnam; and at the age of 3, immigrated to the U.S. with his family in April 1975 under Operation Frequent Wind, which was the final evacuation of American civilians and Vietnamese from South Vietnam. The son of a South Vietnamese Air Force “Bird Dog” forward air controller pilot, Major Dzy Nguyen; and South Vietnamese staff member for the U.S. Defense Attache Office, Bang Nguyen; Tom grew up in Orange County, California, and went on to graduate from the United States Military Academy in 1995. He was commissioned as a military intelligence officer, and later served as an acquisition officer. Tom has served at all echelons from tactical to strategic levels, to include deployments to Kuwait, Iraq and has traveled extensively to Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Many of you still have the chance to record and preserve the legacies of your own families. I’ve sat with families now for interview sessions to record the rich histories of parents and explore the lives of the generations that preceded them. Don’t let your family stories go untold! Take a moment to reach out and together we will bring out your family’s story on a recorded journey. - Kenneth NguyenVisit vietnamstorybank.com today for more information!Adver