The Vietnamese with Kenneth Nguyen

We sit down with Pulitzer Prize-winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen for a raw conversation that bridges literature, politics, and global affairs. Viet brings clarity and depth to some of the most urgent issues facing the world today such as his searing critiques of war, displacement, and identity.We begin by discussing the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza — a conflict that continues to raise difficult questions about power, accountability, and the role of the United States in international spaces. Viet offers his perspective not only as a writer and academic, but as someone who has consistently used his platform to speak out against injustice and advocate for human rights.The conversation also turns to the lasting influence of President Trump on both American society and global politics. We explore how he continues to shape narratives around nationalism, truth, and democracy — and what that means for the future of political discourse both in the U.S. and abroad.This is not just a conversation about geopolitics — it’s about how writers, thinkers, and artists engage with the world. Whether you’re here for the politics, the literature, or the intersection of both, this episode offers plenty to reflect on.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Hung La is a Vietnamese-American fashion designer based in London, known for his innovative menswear and exploration of Asian identity in fashion. Growing up in a Vietnamese community outside Washington, D.C., he was influenced by both American pop culture and traditional Vietnamese values, which shaped his design ethos.After studying at the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp, Hung worked at fashion houses like Balenciaga and Céline, gaining invaluable experience. In 2017, alongside his partner Léa Dickely, he co-founded the luxury womenswear label Kwaidan Editions, known for blending diverse cultural references.In 2021, Hung launched Lựu Đạn, a menswear brand rooted in Asian identity. The name, loosely meaning "dangerous man" or "grenade" in Vietnamese, reflects his desire to challenge stereotypes and present a more nuanced narrative of Asian masculinity. Lựu Đạn's collections blend oversized silhouettes, bold prints, and luxurious fabrics, drawing inspiration from Asian subcultures.Hung is also an advocate for greater representation and diversity in fashion, pushing for authentic storytelling and the inclusion of Asian creatives. Through Lựu Đạn, he continues to redefine masculinity and identity in modern fashion.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

In this first episode of The Viet Cinema Canon, host Anderson Le is joined by Vietnamese director Nguyen Vo Nghiem Minh. Together, they discuss Minh’s journey into film directing, touching on his early influences and his critically acclaimed works. They also explore his latest production, Picturehouse, a take on Vietnamese storytelling in the cinematic world.Throughout their conversation, Anderson and Minh explore the evolution of Vietnamese cinema, specifically how to challenge and reframe traditional narratives, especially when it comes to Vietnamese war films. They discuss the importance of moving beyond the typical tropes seen in American war movies, often told through the lens of older, white male directors, and how Vietnamese filmmakers can reshape these stories with a more authentic and diverse perspective.Nguyễn Võ Nghiêm Minh is a Vietnamese filmmaker known for his visually striking and deeply personal storytelling. Growing up during the Vietnam War, he witnessed firsthand the complexities and human toll of the conflict—experiences that would later shape his work. As a director, Minh seeks to “reclaim” the narrative of the war from the dominant white, American perspective often seen in Hollywood films. Instead of focusing on the war through the lens of American soldiers, his work prioritizes Vietnamese voices, memories, and emotions, offering a more nuanced and authentic portrayal of his homeland’s history. Through films like Mùa Len Trâu (BUFFALO BOY) and Nước 2030, he explores themes of identity, resilience, and the lived experiences of ordinary Vietnamese people, through a prism of different genres. His latest project, PICTUREHOUSE (currently in pre-production) is based on his family’s movie theater that they managed in Vung Tau during the Vietnam War. Please Support PICTUREHOUSE today by clicking on the Links to the campaign shared in the description. Every donation brings Director Minh, and his cast and crew closer to sharing this special film with the world.Indiegogo: https://igg.me/at/picturehousemovieSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Born to Vietnamese refugee parents and raised in Melbourne, Diana Nguyen’s work blends her Vietnamese heritage with her personal experiences, offering audiences a universally relatable perspective. From her critically acclaimed stand-up comedy to her role as a trailblazer in the Australian entertainment scene, Diana’s journey is one of resilience, humor, and passion.In this episode, Diana takes us behind the scenes of her career, sharing stories of growing up as a first-generation Vietnamese-Australian, navigating two cultures, and her rise in the Australian comedy world. She’s toured internationally with her solo shows, co-created the groundbreaking Vietnamese-Australian TV series Phi and Me, and delivered an inspiring TEDxTalk titled “Joy is my Caffeine – JoyFool.”Diana has also made her mark on screen, appearing in a wide range of television and film projects such as The Whistle Blower, Five Bedrooms, and Chak De India, as well as lending her voice to important conversations on shows like The Project and Q&A. She’s an advocate for the arts and community, having received the 2021 Overall Asian Australian Leadership Award for her contributions to both fields.In this podcast, Diana shares her experiences, challenges, and the joy she finds in telling stories that resonate with diverse audiences. Whether you're a fan of stand-up comedy, TV, or personal journeys of cultural discovery, this conversation promises to be both thought-provoking and laugh-out-loud funny.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024), in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history.In this episode of Viet History Makers, host Kenneth Nguyen and co-host Kevin Pham take a deep dive into the life and legacy of Nguyễn Thị Bình (1927–2023), a revolutionary, diplomat, and one of the most prominent female figures in Vietnam’s modern history. As the chief negotiator for the Provisional Revolutionary Government at the Paris Peace Accords, Bình played a crucial role in shaping the diplomatic path that led to the end of the Vietnam War.From her early days as an anti-colonial activist to her rise as a key representative of the National Liberation Front, Bình’s career was defined by her unwavering commitment to Vietnamese independence and self-determination. Her diplomatic skill and steadfast rhetoric made her a formidable presence on the international stage, challenging the narratives of global superpowers while advocating for peace and national reunification.Despite the immense challenges of war and diplomacy, Bình emerged as a symbol of resilience and progress, later serving as Vietnam’s Vice President and continuing to champion education, women’s rights, and social development. Her legacy endures as a testament to the power of diplomacy and the crucial role of women in shaping Vietnam’s history.Join us as we explore Nguyễn Thị Bình’s extraordinary journey—from revolutionary fighter to global diplomat—and discuss the pivotal moments that defined her career. Whether remembered as a skilled negotiator, a staunch advocate for peace, or a pioneering female leader, her story offers profound insights into the struggles and triumphs of Vietnam’s past.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Kevin D. Pham is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Amsterdam. His research introduces Vietnamese political thought to the academic field of political theory, showing how Vietnamese thinkers challenge and enhance conventional Western understandings of important political concepts.He co-hosts Nam Phong Dialogues, a podcast in which he and Yen Vu have casual chats about Vietnamese history and being Vietnamese American. He is the author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024).Kevindoanpham.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!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024), in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history.In this episode of Viet History Makers, host Kenneth Nguyen and co-host Kevin Pham take a deep dive into the life and legacy of Nguyễn Văn Thiệu (1923–2001), the second and final president of the Republic of Vietnam. A soldier-turned-politician, Thiệu played a pivotal role in shaping South Vietnam’s fate during one of the most turbulent periods in Vietnamese history.From his early days as a military officer to his rise as a key figure in the South Vietnamese government, Thiệu’s leadership was marked by both staunch anti-communism and controversial political maneuvering. As president from 1967 to 1975, he navigated a country caught in the throes of war, balancing U.S. support, internal political struggles, and an increasingly dire battlefield reality. His policies, leadership style, and ultimate decisions remain a subject of intense debate among historians and those who lived through the era.Despite his efforts to maintain South Vietnam’s sovereignty, Thiệu’s tenure ended with the collapse of Saigon and his eventual exile. His departure from Vietnam symbolized the end of a republic he fought to preserve, leaving behind a legacy that continues to provoke discussion on leadership, loyalty, and the limits of political power in the face of overwhelming odds.Join us as we examine Nguyễn Văn Thiệu’s journey—from his early years to his final moments in Vietnam—and discuss the critical decisions that defined his presidency. Whether viewed as a steadfast leader, a flawed politician, or a figure caught in an unwinnable war, his story offers valuable insights into the complexities of Vietnam’s modern history.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Kevin D. Pham is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Amsterdam. His research introduces Vietnamese political thought to the academic field of political theory, showing how Vietnamese thinkers challenge and enhance conventional Western understandings of important political concepts.He co-hosts Nam Phong Dialogues, a podcast in which he and Yen Vu have casual chats about Vietnamese history and being Vietnamese American. He is the author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024).Kevindoanpham.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!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Dustin Nguyen has left a mark on global audiences since the 1980s, first appearing alongside Tom Selleck in Magnum P.I. and later making waves in Hollywood with Johnny Depp in 21 Jump Street. But his journey didn’t stop there.Fueled by a deep passion for filmmaking, Dustin has pushed his limits, taking on roles as an actor, director, and producer in the critical early years of Vietnam's film industry rebirth. During the height of his success in Vietnam, Dusting was called back to the U.S. to play a key role in the success of the hit series Warrior (a series produced by Justin Lin of the Fast and Furious franchise) and most recently, delivered powerful performances in The Accidental Getaway Driver and Dope Thief, premiering on Apple on March 14th, 2025.In this podcast episode, Dustin Nguyen opens up about his journey—from a young Vietnamese actor breaking into Hollywood to becoming a multi-talented artist. He shares the ups and downs of his career, the pivotal decisions he’s made, and the resilience that has helped him overcome challenges.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024), in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history.In this episode of Viet History Makers, host Kenneth Nguyen and co-host Kevin Pham explore the life and legacy of Nguyễn Mạnh Tường (1909–1997), a brilliant scholar, lawyer, and intellectual who embodied both the promise and peril of being an independent thinker in 20th-century Vietnam. One of the most highly educated Vietnamese of his time, Nguyễn Mạnh Tường earned dual doctorates in law and literature in France before returning to Vietnam, where he sought to contribute to his country’s development. Initially a supporter of the revolution, his faith in the new regime was tested as he witnessed its treatment of intellectuals and dissenters. His outspoken critiques—particularly following the repression of the Nhân Văn-Giai Phẩm movement—led to decades of political and professional ostracization. Despite his erasure from official history for much of his life, Nguyễn Mạnh Tường’s story is a powerful reflection of the complex relationship between the truth presented by intellectuals and power in Vietnam. Was he a principled dissenter, a tragic figure caught in the tides of ideology, or both? Join us as we examine the life of a man who challenged authority with his words—and paid the price.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Kevin D. Pham is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Amsterdam. His research introduces Vietnamese political thought to the academic field of political theory, showing how Vietnamese thinkers challenge and enhance conventional Western understandings of important political concepts.He co-hosts Nam Phong Dialogues, a podcast in which he and Yen Vu have casual chats about Vietnamese history and being Vietnamese American. He is the author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024).Kevindoanpham.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!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This is a special segment for a friend of the podcast, Alex Duong, who is in need of our community's support. Alex recently was diagnosed with a rare cancer and has left blinded in one eye. In this segment, Alex shares with us his incredibly difficult health journey in the last month.Before tragedy struck, Alex was invited to open for Ronny Chieng and join Donnie Wahlberg in a spinoff of The Bluebloods TV show. All of his income for 2025 has stopped. Alex Duong needs our help. Please donate here:https://www.gofundme.com/f/aid-alexs-journey-to-regain-sightSupport this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024), in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history.In this second part episode of Viet History Makers, host Kenneth Nguyen and co-host Kevin Pham examine the life and legacy of Hồ Chí Minh (1890-1969), the revolutionary leader who played a central role in shaping modern Vietnam. A towering figure in Vietnam’s struggle for independence, Hồ Chí Minh remains one of the most influential—and divisive—leaders in Vietnamese history.A staunch nationalist and communist, Hồ Chí Minh led Vietnam’s fight against French colonial rule and later against American intervention, forging the path toward a unified, independent Vietnam. His vision for the country was rooted in socialist ideals, emphasizing land reform, economic collectivism, and national sovereignty. To many in Vietnam, he is Bác Hồ, the revered father of the nation.Yet, his legacy in the Vietnamese diaspora tells a different story. Many who fled the country after the Vietnam War remember him as a symbol of communist rule, associated with policies that led to war, suffering, and exile. His political ideology and the means by which he pursued Vietnam’s independence remain subjects of intense debate.Join us as we navigate the complexities of Hồ Chí Minh’s life—from his early travels and revolutionary awakening to his role in shaping Vietnam’s future. We explore how his ideals, policies, and leadership left an indelible mark on the nation, while also sparking deep divisions among Vietnamese communities around the world. Whether seen as a visionary leader, a skilled strategist, or a polarizing figure, Hồ Chí Minh’s impact on Vietnam and global history is undeniable.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Kevin D. Pham is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Amsterdam. His research introduces Vietnamese political thought to the academic field of political theory, showing how Vietnamese thinkers challenge and enhance conventional Western understandings of important political concepts.He co-hosts Nam Phong Dialogues, a podcast in which he and Yen Vu have casual chats about Vietnamese history and being Vietnamese American. He is the author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024).Kevindoanpham.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!Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy