The Vietnamese with Kenneth Nguyen

In this episode of SEA Dreams, we dive into one of the most delicious debates: which Southeast Asian dish reigns supreme? From pho to pad thai, curries to nasi lemak, the region's culinary diversity is a feast for the senses. But with so many incredible dishes to choose from, how do we decide which one truly takes the crown?Join hosts Kenneth Nguyen and An Vo (missing our third co host Phil Van) as they are joined by two special guests: Benny Tran, a world traveler and global ambassador for the Los Angeles Football Club, and chef Nguyen Bui, a master private chef, with a deep knowledge of dishes from all corners of the region. Together, they’ll discuss the rich cultural histories, unique flavors, and personal connections behind some of Southeast Asia's most iconic dishes.From the steaming bowls of pho in Vietnam to the spicy and savory flavors of Thailand's green curry, we explore what makes these dishes so beloved and whether they truly deserve the title of “best.” It’s a flavorful conversation that will have you craving your next meal, no matter where you are.Tune in for a lively and tasty debate on what makes Southeast Asian cuisine so special—and which dish ultimately comes out on top!Welcome to SEA Dreams! Explore Southeast Asia’s dynamic past, present, and future landscape through the lens of culture, food, business, history, and politics. Each episode deep dives into expert analysis on key events shaping Southeast Asia. Whether you're a professional, student, or curious listener, this podcast will provide fresh perspectives and thought-provoking conversations on the forces driving change in this influential region.An Vo is an Australian-Vietnamese living in America with a background in law, politics, economics, and multi-cultural affairs. He has advised both state and federal government bodies on multi-cultural affairs. Having emigrated to Australia at age 5 An has spent two decades each in both Australia and the US but still retains his Aussie accent.Phillip Van is a commercial director and screenwriter whose work has earned recognition from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Filmmaker Magazine, and awards at festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Half-Vietnamese and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he draws on his unique cultural background to inform his creative perspective. His projects are currently in development with major studios, including Netflix and Fifth Season.Kenneth Nguyen is a Los Angeles based podcaster and film producer with over two decades in the Vietnamese media space. Kenneth hosts and produces The Vietnamese podcast with over 400 episodes recorded. Kenneth Nguyen is a founding partner of EAST Films.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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, in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history.In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam, whose reign marked the twilight of the Nguyen dynasty and the turbulent crossroads of Vietnamese history. From his privileged upbringing in the royal court to his complex role as both a symbol of tradition and a figure entangled in modern political struggles, we explore how Bao Dai navigated a rapidly changing world.Discover the challenges, contradictions, and controversies of an emperor caught between colonial powers, nationalist movements, and his own vision for Vietnam. Whether you're intrigued by the dynamics of monarchy in a revolutionary era, fascinated by the personal stories behind historical shifts, or seeking to understand Vietnam’s journey through the 20th century, this episode offers a nuanced portrait of a leader who witnessed the end of an era and the birth of a new nation.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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, in this compelling sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history.In this episode, we deep dive into the life and legacy of Phan Boi Chau, a trailblazing revolutionary who played a crucial role in shaping the early discourse on Vietnamese nationalism. From his humble upbringing to his profound contributions to society, we examine how Phan Boi Chau laid the intellectual groundwork for Vietnam's quest for independence.Experience the struggles, triumphs, and unyielding determination of a man who dreamed of a united and free Vietnam in the face of colonial rule. Whether you're a history enthusiast, a student of revolutionary movements, or simply curious about Vietnam’s past, this episode offers new insights into one of its most iconic political thinkers.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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

In this episode of SEA Dreams, we delve into the rise of digital nomadism and its unique relationship with Southeast Asia. What began as a niche lifestyle for remote workers has now evolved into a global movement—but how has Southeast Asia become a hub for these modern wanderers?From the co-working cafés of Bali to the bustling nomad communities in Ho Chi Minh City and Chiang Mai, we explore the factors that make this region so attractive. Low costs of living, vibrant cultures, and welcoming communities are just the beginning—yet questions remain about the long-term impact on local economies, cultures, and communities.Join us as we examine the opportunities and challenges of digital nomadism in Southeast Asia, the ethical dilemmas it presents, and the delicate balance between embracing global connectivity and preserving local identity. This episode offers a thought-provoking look at how the digital nomad movement is reshaping both lives and landscapes across the region.Welcome to SEA Dreams! Explore Southeast Asia’s dynamic past, present, and future landscape through the lens of culture, food, business, history, and politics. Each episode deep dives into expert analysis on key events shaping Southeast Asia. Whether you're a professional, student, or curious listener, this podcast will provide fresh perspectives and thought-provoking conversations on the forces driving change in this influential region.An Vo is an Australian-Vietnamese living in America with a background in law, politics, economics, and multi-cultural affairs. He has advised both state and federal government bodies on multi-cultural affairs. Having emigrated to Australia at age 5 An has spent two decades each in both Australia and the US but still retains his Aussie accent.Phillip Van is a commercial director and screenwriter whose work has earned recognition from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Filmmaker Magazine, and awards at festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Half-Vietnamese and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he draws on his unique cultural background to inform his creative perspective. His projects are currently in development with major studios, including Netflix and Fifth Season.Kenneth Nguyen is a Los Angeles based podcaster and film producer with over two decades in the Vietnamese media space. Kenneth hosts and produces The Vietnamese podcast with over 400 episodes recorded. Kenneth Nguyen is a founding partner of EAST Films.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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 Dr. Thao Ha—a sociology professor with a backstory of survival and resilience. In this episode of The Vietnamese podcast, Kenneth Nguyen hosts Dr. Thao Ha as they discuss the outcomes of the 2024 presidential election, exploring why “the Dems didn't see the other side coming so strong” and how we can bridge divides in the aftermath. Dr. Ha’s story offers her perspective on social issues and the urgent need for understanding each other. It’s not everyday a sociology teacher can talk about street gangs from first-hand experience. When she talks about the social consequences of gangs, she can point to the scar on her arm. She was shot in a gang-related drive-by shooting as she was coming out of a billiards hall near where she lived in Houston. Today, she is professor of sociology at MiraCosta College with a doctorate from the University of Texas at Austin. She’s a writer, filmmaker, media consultant, and philanthropic leader who leads the Vietnamese American Arts and Letters Association (VAALA) and the Doan Foundation for the arts. She is the founder of Collective Freedom, a North San Diego County nonprofit serving the formerly incarcerated population. Her forthcoming book, Love Letters to the Dirty South, will be released in 2026. It’s a memoir following her journey from being in a Houston Vietnamese gang in the 1990s to reconnecting with her incarcerated first love, Vu, in 2020, and explores the broader social structures of the refugee experience, mass incarceration, and prison injustice.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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 episode of SEA Dreams, we explore the Michelin star rating system’s journey from its beginnings as a French tire company’s travel guide to its status as a global authority on fine dining. But can one rating system really capture the full spectrum of culinary excellence worldwide?As Michelin expands into Southeast Asia—covering everything from Singapore’s fine dining to Bangkok’s vibrant street food—questions arise about the balance between global standards and local flavors.Join us as we examine Michelin’s criteria for awarding stars, its impact on Southeast Asia’s diverse culinary culture, and the dynamic relationship between tradition and modernity in the region’s food scene. This episode offers insights into how global dining trends intersect with Southeast Asia’s unique flavors and traditions, sparking fresh debates about authenticity, cultural preservation, and what “quality” really means.Welcome to SEA Dreams! Explore Southeast Asia’s dynamic past, present, and future landscape through the lens of culture, food, business, history, and politics. Each episode deep dives into expert analysis on key events shaping Southeast Asia. Whether you're a professional, student, or curious listener, this podcast will provide fresh perspectives and thought-provoking conversations on the forces driving change in this influential region.An Vo is an Australian-Vietnamese living in America with a background in law, politics, economics, and multi-cultural affairs. He has advised both state and federal government bodies on multi-cultural affairs. Having emigrated to Australia at age 5 An has spent two decades each in both Australia and the US but still retains his Aussie accent.Phillip Van is a commercial director and screenwriter whose work has earned recognition from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Filmmaker Magazine, and awards at festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Half-Vietnamese and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he draws on his unique cultural background to inform his creative perspective. His projects are currently in development with major studios, including Netflix and Fifth Season.Kenneth Nguyen is a Los Angeles based podcaster and film producer with over two decades in the Vietnamese media space. Kenneth hosts and produces The Vietnamese podcast with over 400 episodes recorded. Kenneth Nguyen is a founding partner of EAST Films.--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------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

Discover the journey of Vietnamese-American comedian Sean Porter, who shares his unique background and the wit that fuels his comedy. The conversation dives into the rich tapestry of his Blasian roots, weaving personal stories infused with humor. Explore the intricacies of mastering the comedic craft, from joke writing to storytelling, while navigating diverse audiences. The episode also highlights the importance of cultural representation in comedy and the commitment to uplifting voices within the community.

Join us as we look into the histories behind civil law and common law, examining how these legal frameworks influence governance, judiciary processes, and even day-to-day life in Southeast Asian countries.Have you ever wondered why some countries have a more codified, statute-driven approach to law while others rely heavily on judicial rulings and precedents?With insights into colonial legacies, religious influences, and local customs, this episode will explore the unique blend of legal traditions that define Southeast Asia. Whether you're curious about how laws are made or how they affect everything from economic policy to personal freedoms, this episode offers a glimpse into the legal identities shaping the region.Welcome to SEA Dreams! Explore Southeast Asia’s dynamic past, present, and future landscape through the lens of culture, food, business, history, and politics. Each episode deep dives into expert analysis on key events shaping Southeast Asia. Whether you're a professional, student, or curious listener, this podcast will provide fresh perspectives and thought-provoking conversations on the forces driving change in this influential region.An Vo is an Australian-Vietnamese living in America with a background in law, politics, economics, and multi-cultural affairs. He has advised both state and federal government bodies on multi-cultural affairs. Having emigrated to Australia at age 5 An has spent two decades each in both Australia and the US but still retains his Aussie accent.Phillip Van is a commercial director and screenwriter whose work has earned recognition from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Filmmaker Magazine, and awards at festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Half-Vietnamese and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he draws on his unique cultural background to inform his creative perspective. His projects are currently in development with major studios, including Netflix and Fifth Season.Kenneth Nguyen is a Los Angeles based podcaster and film producer with over two decades in the Vietnamese media space. Kenneth hosts and produces The Vietnamese podcast with over 400 episodes recorded. Kenneth Nguyen is a founding partner of EAST Films.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

Kevin Pham is an Assistant Professor of Political Theory at the University of Amsterdam. He is the author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024), the first book to bring Vietnamese political thought into the academic field of political theory.He co-hosts a podcast called Nam Phong Dialogues: Casual Chats on Vietnamese 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 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

Louie Nguyen is a seasoned global investor, with a particular focus on disruptive endeavors and mobilizing capital and human resources to solve community pain points. Prior to joining Mission Driven Finance, Louie founded Soledad Investment Management, where he made global investments including impact-oriented investments in Vietnam.Earlier in his career, he worked directly with company founder Charles Brandes as an institutional portfolio manager for high-profile North American and Asian institutional clients at Brandes Investment Partners. In 2021, Mayor of San Diego Todd Gloria appointed Louie to the approximately $10 billion San Diego City Employees’ Retirement System, sitting on both the board and the investment committee.He is also a board member of the Jacobs Center of Neighborhood Innovation, advising the Jacobs family on its mission of innovative community empowerment. Louie is a member of the investment committee for the Mingei International Museum and an advisory investment committee member for the Alliance Healthcare Foundation.Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/the-vietnamese-with-kenneth-nguyen/donationsAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy