The Honest Drink

Today we welcome in the new year as we film a special episode facing the camera. We play "agree or disagree" and discuss several relatable topics, from the effectiveness of New Year's resolutions to whether romance is dying. We also rank our worst personal habits to leave behind from the past year. This episode is packed with introspection, light-hearted debates, and a drive to live better in 2026. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehonestdrink_/ RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.

Rico Zhang is a Chinese-Australian Director known for his technical filmmaking, award-winning music videos and bold aesthetic world-building. His most recent project was Dongji Rescue 东极岛 (2025), a film based on the true story of Chinese fisherman from Dongji Island who risked their lives to rescue over 300 British POWs after a Japanese transport ship was torpedoed by the U.S. Navy in WWII. Today Rico shares the challenges working on Dongji Rescue, finding cultural identity in his filmmaking in China and the West, and we discuss the complexities of being an ABC in today's world. We talk about the impact of cultural influence, and how the evolving global landscape shapes identity. Rico also reveals his fascinating physical ability to not get drunk and the importance of focusing on commonalities rather than differences. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehonestdrink_/ RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.

The hosts tackle the art of savoring moments in life, reflecting on their own tendencies to rush through experiences. They introduce the concept of 'Irish goodbyes' and share personal anecdotes about their exit strategies at social gatherings. With one of them moving to California, they discuss the emotional weight of relocation and what it means for their friendship and future podcast plans. Additionally, they explore societal implications of AI, friendship dynamics, and how distance affects relationships, all while ensuring their bond remains strong.

Today's conversation takes a deep dive into the paranormal, exploring Tilman's fascination with near death experiences, reincarnation, shared death experiences, and the time between lives. Tilman shares compelling stories and accounts, including documented cases of miraculous healings and children's memories of past lives. The discussion also touches on the transformative impact of these experiences, the concept of a higher power, and the importance of living authentically and without fear. This episode is a captivating exploration of the unknown and the unexplained. Tilman Rieger is the founder of 8C Consulting, focused on conflict management, interpersonal and nonviolent communication. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehonestdrink_/ RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.

c.j. Ng, a sales leadership coach and author, dives into the transformative power of sales as a vital life skill. He discusses the importance of empathy in communication and contrasts manipulation with genuine consultative selling. c.j. also explores cultural challenges around giving feedback, advocating for safe spaces and clear channels in workplaces. He highlights the need for sales education in schools and shares insights on the increasing demand for authenticity over hype in customer relationships.

Dr. George Hu, PsyD, is a licensed clinical psychologist from the United States. He is currently the Director of Counseling, Wellness, Disability, and Accommodation at Duke Kunshan University, and the President of the Shanghai International Mental Health Association. Previously, he was the Department Chair of Mental Health at Shanghai United Family Pudong Hospital. Today, we discuss modern emotional and mental health challenges including social awkwardness, emotion regulation and fear. We talk about the cognitive impacts of technology and AI, societal shifts in the perception of masculinity, the importance of self-reflection, and the broader existential anxieties that shape our current age. Dr. Hu emphasizes the essential need for resilience and emotional intelligence in navigating today's uncertainties and highlights the importance of redefining societal values beyond professional achievement. _____________________ If you enjoy this show don't forget to leave a rating! Follow Us On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thehonestdrink_/ RedNote: THD The Honest Drink WeChat: THD_Official Find us on: Spotify, Apple, YouTube, 小红书, Ximalaya, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.

Cyrus Janssen, a YouTuber and self-proclaimed US-China ambassador, delves into the evolving relationship between the two nations. He explores cultural exchanges, highlighting the experiences of bilingual families balancing American and Chinese values. Janssen discusses the narratives shaped by travel vloggers and the rise of Chinese soft power in influencing American youth. The conversation also touches on economic realities, the contrasting cost of living, and the potential for collaboration between the US and China amid geopolitical complexities.

Arthur Jones, a British documentary filmmaker and co-host of the “飞天胡说” podcast, shares insights on his documentary “The Six,” which uncovers the untold tales of Chinese survivors from the Titanic. He discusses the complexities of capturing authenticity in filmmaking and the significance of improvisation. The conversation highlights themes of identity, resilience, and the impact of racism on immigrant experiences. Jones also reflects on the broader historical narratives surrounding the Titanic, weaving in personal stories of survival and the struggle against exclusion.

Ron Lee, an award-winning creative technologist and VP at Monks, dives deep into the transformative world of AI and its surprising effects on creativity and work. He humorously discusses the unintended consequences of food delivery on the environment and the blending of digital interactions with personal relationships. Ron highlights the challenges of cultural nuances in AI, the biases embedded in tech, and the urgent need for originality in modern filmmaking. He also explores how families adapt to parenting in the digital age, facing new dynamics shaped by technology.

Lily Lam, a content creator and designer from NYC, dives into the complexities of gentrification in Chinatown, discussing how it impacts cultural identity and community cohesion. She shares her journey as a transgender individual, exploring how transition has influenced her sense of self and family dynamics. The conversation highlights the role of fashion in personal expression, emphasizing authenticity over trends. Additionally, they touch on changing narratives about China and the challenges of navigating identity in a rapidly evolving social landscape.