Shows
Discover Vietnam: A Vietnam PodcastBack Catalog Rewind : Discover Vietnam - Surviving The 2008 Financial Crisis in NYC To Creating Saigoneer | Brian LetwinThe opening guest of Season 7 is Brian Letwin, a New Yorker in Saigon since 2010. Brian is the co-founder and CEO of the Urbanist Network which includes Saigoneer, Urbanist Vietnam and Urbanist Hanoi.Using his 15 years experience working in digital media both on the agency and publisher side Saigoneer has now been running since 2013.Recorded in late August when Saigon was still under strict lockdown we try to keep covid and lockdown chat to a minimum. Fortunately being a digital product Saigoneer and the Urbanist Network is still operating without any loss of staff and is...
2025-11-091h 13
Saigoneer PodcastA Look BackAfter a few months away, we take a look back at the podcast since it started; reminiscing on previous recording locations, co-hosts, and memorable moments.
Editor-in-Chief (and co-host) Mike Tatarski has moved on from Saigoneer, so we took this chance to revisit the past - while still opening with Bánh Mì Banter.
We're not quite sure when the podcast will return at this stage, but we hope to bring it back to your feed in the future!
2022-04-2541 min
Saigoneer PodcastHannah Hà, Mark Gergis, Jan Hagenkoetter & the Making of 'Magical Nights'This special episode builds on our recent article about the creation of 'Magical Nights - Saigon Surf Twist & Soul,' the recently released album of Phương Tâm's songs from the early 1960s.
Hannah Hà, Mark Gergis and Jan Hagenkoetter were the driving force behind the album - Hannah, Tâm's daughter, shares how she learned about her mother's past as a rockstar singer in 1960s Saigon - a previous life that no one in her family knew about.
The trio also discuss how they connected, the arduous process of tracking down physical copies of Tâm's music during the fi...
2021-12-2456 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Value of Bike Baskets; Should Saigon Go Under- or Above-Ground?Today, we begin with Bánh Mì Banter (1:17), which includes a mea culpa from Paul regarding a particularly egregious food take he shared in a recent Saigoneer article.
Then (10:07), we launch into our first 'We Rate Stuff' segment. How do we rate bicycle baskets under our rather arbitrary system?
Finally (27:14), it's time for another round of 'This or That,' with an environmental theme: to protect itself from the inevitability of future sea level rise, should Saigon build underground, or up into the air?
2021-11-0142 min
Discover Vietnam: A Vietnam PodcastSurviving The 2008 Financial Crisis in NYC To Creating Saigoneer | Brian Letwin S7 E1The opening guest of Season 7 is Brian Letwin, a New Yorker in Saigon since 2010. Brian is the co-founder and CEO of the Urbanist Network which includes Saigoneer, Urbanist Vietnam and Urbanist Hanoi.Using his 15 years experience working in digital media both on the agency and publisher side Saigoneer has now been running since 2013.Recorded in late August when Saigon was still under strict lockdown we try to keep covid and lockdown chat to a minimum. Fortunately being a digital product Saigoneer and the Urbanist Network is still operating without any loss of staff and is...
2021-09-081h 11
Discover Vietnam: A Vietnam PodcastSurviving The 2008 Financial Crisis in NYC To Creating Saigoneer | Brian Letwin TEASER S7 E1The opening guest of Season 7 is Brian Letwin, a New Yorker in Saigon since 2010. Brian is the co-founder and CEO of the Urbanist Network which includes Saigoneer, Urbanist Vietnam and Urbanist Hanoi. Using his 15 years experience working in digital media both on the agency and publisher side Saigoneer has now been running since 2013.Recorded in late August when Saigon was still under strict lockdown we try to keep covid and lockdown chat to a minimum. Fortunately being a digital product Saigoneer and the Urbanist Network is still operating without any loss of staff and is...
2021-09-0501 min
Saigoneer PodcastUrbanist Vietnam's Launch; the Áo Dài's Place in Modern SocietyWe begin (1:13) this week by talking about the recent launch of Urbanist Vietnam, our Vietnamese-language sister site. How do we decide which Saigoneer stories to translate into Vietnamese, and what can readers expect in terms of original features in the future?
Then (16:23), we discuss the áo dài in contemporary Vietnam. Cultural officials in Thua Thien-Hue Province have started wearing the outfit on the first Monday of every month. What is the iconic garment's place in contemporary Vietnam?
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (34:24).
2020-09-1441 min
Saigoneer PodcastUsing Diacritics in English Writing; the Da Nang COVID-19 OutbreakOn this week's show, we begin (1:08) with a conversation about our recent decision to use diacritics in Vietnamese names on the Saigoneer website. What are the benefits of using the language to its full extent, and what does the fact that most websites publishing in English don't use diacritics say about our relationship to Vietnamese?
Then (21:16), we look at the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak centered on Da Nang - how has this development impacted daily life in Saigon, and what do we think of the protective measures being taken here?
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (31:38).
2020-08-1741 min
Saigoneer PodcastVietnam's Effort to Increase Fertility Rates; Visual Arts Curator Bill NguyenOn this week's show, we begin (1:09) by discussing the Vietnamese government's effort to get women to marry by age 30 and have two children by age 35, which is aimed at tackling Vietnam's rapidly aging population. What does this mean for young women, and what is missing from this official suggestion?
Our interview guest (24:04) is Bill Nguyen, a visual arts curator and writer currently working at The Factory Contemporary Arts Centre in Saigon. We talked about his work, the status of art in modern Vietnam, and why, in his view, Hanoi is better than Saigon.
As always, we end with Bánh M...
2020-07-271h 04
Saigoneer PodcastWildlife Consumption in the COVID-19 Era; a Street Food UpdateThis week, we begin (1:00) with a discussion about wildlife consumption in Vietnam. A recently-published study found cornavirus strains in a majority of field rat and bat guano samples taken in Vietnam from 2013 to 2014. What could these findings - and the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic - mean for the eating of bushmeat here?
Then (20:13), on a lighter note, we share some of our favorite recent street food, cafe and restaurant finds in Saigon.
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (30:53).
2020-07-0641 min
Saigoneer PodcastLife in Hanoi During & After the Pandemic; Modernist Architecture with Mel Schenck ReturnsOn this week's show, our Urbanist Hanoi colleague shares what life in the capital was like during the peak of Vietnam's coronavirus outbreak in February and March (1:22), and how daily life has recovered over the last several weeks.
Then (16:51), architect Mel Schenck becomes our first repeat guest after his appearance on our third episode ages ago. We discuss his new book, 'Southern Vietnam Modernist Architecture,' and how appreciation of this style has changed over the last few years.
The book is available at Fahasa and other major bookstores in Vietnam, or through Barnes & Noble overseas: https://www.barnesandnoble.com...
2020-06-2949 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Gender & Generational Divides of Saigon's Civic SpacesOn this week's single-topic show, we look (1:11) at how people of different genders and generations utilize different businesses and spaces in Saigon for civic life - or to just hang out with friends.
From open-front cafes dominated by middle-aged men to convenience stores and roadside tea vendors popular with groups of gender-diverse youths, what do the city's spaces say about who visits them? And would floating cafes make any sense?
As always, we end with Bánh Mỉ Banter (23:38).
2020-06-1535 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Evolution of Contemporary Vietnamese CinemaA few weeks ago, we discussed depictions of Vietnam from foreign filmmakers and studios. Today (0:55), we dig into the themes and improving quality of domestically-produced movies like Song Lang, Goodbye Mother, Furie, and Good Morning and Good Night.
What do these movies reflect about Vietnamese society, and what do we hope to see from local movies in the future?
As always, we end with Bánh Mỉ Banter (34:54).
2020-06-0147 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Snack Chat & Saigon Children Executive Director Damien RobertsThis week, we share our love of all things snackable (1:27), whether American classics like Cheez-Its and Fig Newtons or Vietnamese staples like chuối nếp nướng and the astonishing variety of fruit-based snacks available here. Conversely, what are some of the worst snacks?
Our interview guest (20:01) is Damien Roberts, executive director of Saigon Children, the Saigon-based charity organization which provides education and vocational training to disadvantaged children throughout Vietnam, with a focus on the southern region. We discussed the charity's work over the years, the challenges of fundraising during a global pandemic, and Roberts' goals for the future.
Find ou...
2020-05-1851 min
Saigoneer PodcastA View of Vietnam from World CinemaOn this week's single-topic show, we discuss movies about Vietnam created by foreign production companies and directors (1:28). The country's home-grown movie industry has improved in leaps and bounds in recent years (something we'll address in a future episode), but how has Vietnam been depicted from abroad?
Of course, Hollywood has its classic war movies, most of which make for difficult watching from a Vietnamese perspective, but we dig into a few films (mostly) unrelated to conflict.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (36:33).
2020-05-1147 min
The Arts of TravelWhy aren't we Talking About Vietnam's Success w. Covid-19? Guests: Mike Tatarski of Saigoneer & Academic Mai TruongTo better understand Vietnam's stunning success in managing Covid-19, I spoke to Vietnam-based Journalist Mike Tatarski, and Academic Mai Truong of the University of Arizona.
Mike's interview is the first half. We discuss the timeline of Covid-19 in Vietnam, the measures the government put into place and his impressions as an American abroad of Vietnam's competency, compared to the disastrous response of the United States.
Mai's interview is the second half. We discuss Vietnam's political system. How it gained citizenship participation and trust in its handling of Covid-19, and the complicated ways the country handles protest when citizens disagree with...
2020-04-271h 16
Saigoneer PodcastThe End of the National Social Distancing OrderWe're back with a new episode recorded, believe it or not, in our office. This may sound shocking to many around the world, but Vietnam's coronavirus outbreak has been so well-contained that a sense of normalcy has returned, and that's our topic for today.
We discussed (1:57) reactions to Vietnam's success, possible ways forward, and whether it's too soon for the country to fully celebrate.
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (24:50).
2020-04-2732 min
Saigoneer PodcastReview RouletteWith no end in sight to working from home - and the coronavirus dominating daily life - we've had to think outside the box for this episode.
We played a game of 'review roulette,' in which we each submitted a movie, album, TV show and book/article to a random generator, and then reviewed what we received. Most of the submissions were trashy or things we knew other co-hosts wouldn't like very much.
Mike got 'High School Musical' (2:47), Thi dissected 'Thor: Ragnarok' (10:54), Khoi watched the old YouTube series 'lonelygirl15' (21:56), and Paul pondered the ESPN article 'The true story...
2020-04-0648 min
Saigoneer PodcastCOVID-19 Dispatches from SaigonOn this working-from-home episode, we each share a dispatch from our respective neighborhood of Saigon in the time of COVID-19 (1:16). What is daily life like? How are we spending our time? What happens to the fish at those weird foot massage places when there are no tourists?
PSA: Since this episode was reported remotely it doesn't have our usual high-level audio quality.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (31:26).
This episode is brought to you by Waves. Find out more at https://waves8.com/.
2020-03-3042 min
Saigoneer PodcastCovid-19 Update, Quarantine What If? & Wildlife Conservationist Trang NguyenOn this week's episode, our 80th (!), we begin (1:29) with the latest, as of March 12, on Vietnam's Covid-19 outbreak, which has entered a worrying stage with a string of new cases in different regions after over three weeks without any new infections.
Then (19:41), we take a slightly whimsical detour to share how we'd spend a hypothetical 14-day home quarantine period. Reading? Baking? Composting?
Our interview guest (30:07) is Trang Nguyen, founder of the wildlife conservation organization WildAct. She talked about her childhood interest in animal welfare, her efforts to change attitudes toward wildlife trafficking in Vietnam, and more.
As always, we end...
2020-03-1658 min
Saigoneer PodcastVietnam's Unheralded Women & the Creators of Melon Bê ĐêIn honor of International Women's Day, we begin this week (1:19) by sharing stories of Vietnamese women from throughout history who haven't received the recognition we think they deserve. From a 15th century Confucian scholar to a contemporary poet, Vietnamese women have a fascinating, often overlooked history.
Then (21:24), we sit down with Hong Anh Nguyen, Truong Que Phuong and Doan Kim Thu, the creators of the YouTube series Melon Bê Đê, for an extended conversation about their personal experiences as queer women in Vietnam. They discuss the importance of lesbians getting STD tests, the challenges of bringing the foreign and Vietnamese lesbian com...
2020-03-091h 19
Podlovers Asia: All about Asian PodcastingSaigoneer's Mike Tatarski covers Vietnamese culture, content curation and the Vietnamese podcasting sceneIn this episode, I had a lovely chat with Saigoneer's Editor-in-Chief, Mike Tatarski!Saigoneer is a publication covering the city of Saigon, and Vietnam in general. They cover quite a number of topics ranging from culture, society, food and drinks, to serious issues too! Their podcast is a roundtable of the Saigoneer team talking about the latest happenings in Vietnam. Pretty fascinating!We talked about:Transitioning into Vietnamese cultureThe Saigoneer's mission to cover everything in SaigonHow the team curates its contentAn overview of the Vietnamese podcasting sceneDo we have plenty of English-language podcasts? How about...
2020-03-0532 min
Saigoneer PodcastNhậu's Social Norms & the Impact of Ongoing School ClosuresThis week, we begin (1:04) by discussing nhậu and some of the problems it presents for women or people who don't want to drink, as well as the opportunities for bonding that it can spur in certain groups. This conversation was inspired by an essay titled 'In Food and Community: How Vietnamese Drinking Culture Taught Me to Love My Queerness' by Alex Nguyen. (https://www.colorbloq.org/in-food-and-community-how-vietnamese-drinking-culture-taught-me-to-love-my-queerness)
Then (16:36), we look at the impacts of the ongoing closure of schools nationwide amid the Covid-19 outbreak. Many teachers are hurting financially, but could this usher in new forms of learning and me...
2020-02-2435 min
Saigoneer PodcastAfter the Success of 'Parasite,' a Look at Asian & Vietnamese CinemaWhatever you think of the Oscars, there is no denying that 'Parasite' winning Best Picture was a big deal. We begin this week (1:10) by breaking down Bong Joon-ho's masterful triumph (and new role as a living meme generator); the reaction in South Korea; other movies and directors from Asia worth your time; and the ignorance of western moviegoers who avoid films in a foreign language.
Then, we dive into the current state of Vietnamese cinema (19:03), which has seen a few notable recent successes, but lags far behind the likes of South Korea, Hong Kong and Thailand in terms of overseas...
2020-02-1741 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Coronavirus Outbreak and the New Drunk Driving LawsWe're back from the Tet holiday!
This week, we begin (1:25) with the novel coronavirus outbreak: how has it impacted our daily lives, and what changes have we seen in Saigon since the virus' spread began?
Then (14:00), we look at the zero-tolerance drunk driving laws that went into effect on January 1. What sort of behavioral changes have these regulations created? Are they too strict?
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (21:10).
2020-02-1028 min
Saigoneer PodcastTet Food Improvements and Writer Nguyen Phan Que MaiOn this week's show, our last before the Lunar New Year break, we discuss (1:26) potential ways to improve traditional Tet dishes. Specialties like bánh tét, for example, are very heavy - could they be made healthier? And would it be possible to run a year-round Tet food restaurant?
Then (22:00), we have an extended chat with Vietnamese writer Nguyen Phan Que Mai, author of the upcoming novel 'The Mountains Sing.' Que Mai is the first Vietnamese national to write a novel in English published by a major American press. 'The Mountains Sing' is a stunning multi-generational story that ex...
2020-01-201h 24
Saigoneer PodcastVietnam's Decade in ReviewOn this special single-segment episode, we look back at the last decade in Vietnam through the lens of four societal trends: digital convenience, cyberculture, labor issues, and overtourism (1:32). The period from 2010 to 2019 brought incredible transformations to the country, and while these four subjects are by no means comprehensive, we believe they illuminate the profound ways in which daily life has changed for tens of millions of people in Vietnam.
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (44:00).
2020-01-1355 min
Saigoneer PodcastSome of our Favorite 2019 SegmentsWe're closing out the year with a special mega-episode, in which we chose a few of our favorite segments from the past 12 months.
We begin (:50) by sharing our nominations for Vietnam's 'national senses,' if such a thing existed. What smells, sounds, sights, tastes and textures do we think best exemplify the country? The smell of pork chops grilling on a sidewalk? The Bitexco Financial Tower? Those fragrant wet wipes given out at bia hơi joints?
Then (17:03), our extended conversation about superstitions, both Vietnamese and western. We also play a game where we guess which ones are real, and w...
2019-12-301h 53
Saigoneer PodcastKorea's Presence in Saigon; the Darker Side of K-PopOn this week's show, Saigoneer Korean's editor stops by to chat about the presence of South Korean culture in Saigon (1:32). What draws so many Korean expats to the city, and what's up with the popularity of Cộng Cà Phê among this group?
Then (24:08), we dig in to K-pop. What do Koreans make of its massive popularity overseas, particularly in countries like Vietnam? And what sort of impact have recent tragedies involving K-pop stars had on fans?
(If you don't know that Saigoneer Korean exists, check it out: https://kr.saigoneer.com/)
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter...
2019-12-2354 min
Saigoneer PodcastA SEA Games Deep Dive; Restaurateurs Phuong Ngo & Jerome BuzenetOn this week's show, we dig deep (1:24) into the recently-concluded Southeast Asia Games. Vietnam's athletes had a stellar showing, winning the second-most medals among the competing countries, but why does football - and particularly men's football - get the vast majority of coverage and public attention? Also, what are the competition's most whimsical sports?
Then, we sit down (24:05) with Phuong Nho and Jerome Buzenet, who are involved in a number of popular restaurants in Saigon - and are also behind a new sourdough-focused cafe. We talked about the exciting F&B scene in the city, as well as what drives...
2019-12-1648 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Air Pollution Problem; the Bubble Tea Bubble BurstsOn this week's show (1:05), we begin by discussing Saigon's rapidly worsening air quality. What can individual Saigoneers do about this seemingly intractable problem, and how does it impact our daily lives?
Then (18:48), we ponder whether Saigon's bubble tea 'bubble' has burst, and what the next youth-centric F&B trend might be.
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (29:44).
This episode of the Saigoneer Podcast is brought to you by Epizode.
2019-12-0238 min
Saigoneer PodcastAlternative Medicine in the Modern World; Can Netflix Dethrone YouTube?This week, we begin (1:00) by discussing the dangers, and potential benefits, of alternative medicine. While sham treatments spread via social media can be dangerous, are we too quick to dismiss methods not used at hospitals or clinics?
Then (18:33), we look at video streaming platforms in light of Netflix's recent addition of a Vietnamese-language interface. Will the streaming giant's local productions improve? Can it compete against YouTube and digital piracy?
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (33:39).
This episode of the Saigoneer Podcast is brought to you by Epizode (https://epizode.com/).
2019-11-2544 min
Saigoneer PodcastOur Nguyen Hue Upgrades, We're Loud Fest Organizer Peter MenchettiThis week be begin ̣(1:04) by sharing our dream upgrades to the Nguyen Hue walking street in light of the recent completion of a lotus fountain on the thoroughfare. What else could be added? A communal kitchen? Ostrich races? An outdoor cinema?
Then (16:23), we sit down with Peter Menchetti, organizer of this weekend's We're Loud Fest, which is bringing four days of international punk, hardcore, garage and rock bands to Saigon. (https://slovenly.eventsmart.com/)
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (31:16).
2019-11-1840 min
Saigoneer PodcastTraditional Vietnamese Culture's Role in Pop Culture; Dessert FightThis week, we begin (1:12) by looking at how some contemporary Vietnamese musicians, artists and architects are taking inspiration from traditional Vietnamese culture and materials for their projects, rather than from foreign countries such as Taiwan or South Korea.
Then (15:36), we have our first food fight in quite some time, as we debate the merits of various Vietnamese desserts and ponder whether one is worthy of the title of 'national dessert.'
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (30:01).
2019-11-1137 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Lure of the 'Promised Land' and the Collapse of Mon HueThis week, we begin (1:16) by discussing the lure of 'promised land' countries like the United Kingdom and Japan to potential Vietnamese migrants in the wake of the Essex truck tragedy. How did this image get built, and how is it perpetuated?
Then (16:40), we dig into the sudden collapse of Mon Hue, the national restaurant chain, and its sister restaurants. Can chains serving Vietnamese food be sustainable in a country with such a strong food culture?
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (28:30).
2019-11-0437 min
Saigoneer PodcastInstagram's Impact on Tourism; the Power of 'Made in Vietnam'This week, we begin (1:32) by discussing the impact social media, and especially Instagram, can have on tourism in light of two headline-grabbing recent events: the abrupt closure of Hanoi's 'train street,' and the social media furor that erupted after pictures of an illegally-built hotel on the Ma Pi Leng Pass in Ha Giang Province appeared on Facebook.
Then (19:28), we break down the perception of the 'Made in Vietnam' label both at home and abroad. We recently learned that Vietnamese products are popular in Russia, but how are they viewed elsewhere? (We're talking about products designed, made and sold by...
2019-10-1443 min
Saigoneer PodcastVictim-Blaming in 2019; the Rising Indie Music SceneOn this week's episode, we begin (1:04) by discussing victim-blaming in the wake of a controversial message sent out by a local ride-hailing company. What does the reaction to this ad, and its very existence, say about current attitudes toward sexual harassment?
Then (18:25), we discuss a few of our favorite up-and-coming local indie bands and the improving standards of music videos and live shows.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (30:54).
2019-10-0740 min
Saigoneer PodcastConvenience Stores Take Over Saigon; Social Media LiteracyOn this week's episode, we take a look ̣(1:09) at the explosive growth of convenience stores throughout Saigon in recent years. It's hard to walk 10 feet these days without tripping over a Family Mart, VinMart or similar competitor. What does this mean for traditional corner shops? (Also why is Hanoi's convenience store game so bad?)
Then (15:48), we discuss social media literacy, especially among older people, many of whom went from not having the internet straight to having Facebook. What should be done to ensure that people use Facebook and other platforms safely?
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (27:06).
Lin...
2019-09-2336 min
Saigoneer PodcastMid-Autumn Mooncakes & 'Rubber and the Making of Vietnam' Author Michitake AsoOn this week's episode, we begin ̣(1:22) with a chat about mooncakes, the traditional treats of the just-passed Mid-Autumn Festival. What do we make of new novelty varieties (Oreo mooncakes, anyone?), and where do these pastries stand in Vietnamese society in 2019?
Then (21:33), we speak to Michitake Aso, associate professor at the University of Albany-SUNY and author of the 2018 book 'Rubber and the Making of Vietnam.' In this extended interview, Aso discusses the brutality of colonial-era rubber plantations in southern Vietnam, the environmental and social impacts this industry still has today, and more.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Ban...
2019-09-161h 19
Saigoneer Podcast'The Tale of Kieu', New Social Networks & Music Writer Thuc DangThis episode contains explicit language.
On this week's show, we begin (1:22) ̣by discussing the new translation of 'The Tale of Kieu' recently released by Penguin Classics under the name 'The Song of Kieu.' Nguyen Du's original version, written in the early 19th century, is considered Vietnam's most important work of classic literature. Why did Penguin release a translation without the involvement of any Vietnamese scholars?
Then (17:41), we look at the recent launches of several Vietnamese social networks aiming to compete with the likes of Facebook and YouTube. Do they stand a chance?
Our interview guest is Thuc Dang, who w...
2019-08-261h 00
Saigoneer PodcastHistorical 'What Ifs?' and a Street Food UpdateOn this week's episode (our 60th!) we discuss (1:00) a few Vietnam-focused 'what ifs?' - for example, what if the country had never decided to use chopsticks as a dining utensil? Or what if the French had never colonized Vietnam?
Then (18:21), we do our first street food update in a while, which includes bamboo rice (171 Phan Dang Luu, Phu Nhuan District in the morning), a glorious vegetarian buffet (73 Huynh Man Dat, Binh Thanh District) and a couple of top-notch bún riêu spots (outside 95 Pasteur Street, District 1 & across from 14 Quoc Huong, District 2 at lunchtime).
As always, we end with Ba...
2019-08-1936 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Evolution of Pets in Vietnam; the Significance of 'Ghost Month'On this week's episode, we begin (1:07) by discussing how the concept and role of pets is evolving as Vietnam becomes increasingly wealthy. More people are buying expensive breeds of cats and dogs, but cities like Saigon have introduced stricter pet regulations, while many new apartment complexes don't allow pets.
Then (17:15), we dive into 'Ghost Month' and the traditions that come with it, such as not making big purchases or life decisions in order to avoid bad luck.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (32:11).
2019-08-1245 min
Saigoneer PodcastDeciding Where to Study Abroad; a Ride-Hailing App UpdateOn this week's episode, we begin (1:07) ̣by discussing the factors that Vietnamese students weigh when choosing a country for studying abroad.
Then (14:44), we dig into recent developments in the local ride-hailing app market, from new competitors to driver strikes and more.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (32:49).
2019-07-2940 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Food Authenticity DebateWhat makes a certain dish or cuisine authentic? Who determines which food and restaurants are authentic? Does authenticity even matter when it comes to food? We debate these questions and more in this single-topic episode (1:04).
As always, we end with Bánh Mỉ Banter (26:03).
2019-07-2233 min
Saigoneer PodcastNhậu Roundtable Special & Laiday Refill Station Co-Founder Quyen NguyenOn this week's episode, we celebrate the end of an era with our second nhậu roundtable special (1:08). We answered questions such as "If you launched a Vietnamese airline, what would it be called, and what uniforms would the flight attendants wear?"; "If you could open a museum in Saigon, what topic would it cover?"; and "What is the worst food abomination you've eaten in Vietnam?"
Then (29:29), we speak to Quyen Nguyen, a co-founder of Laiday Refill Station, about her efforts to raise awareness on the dangers of plastic waste and spread a lifestyle focused on reusable, refillable products.
As al...
2019-07-1559 min
Saigoneer PodcastDomestic Tourism's Rise & the Son Tung-Snoop Dogg Music VideoOn this week's show, we begin ̣(1:02) by discussing the explosive growth of domestic tourism in Vietnam, an industry aided by rapid economic growth and a blossoming middle class. Can tourism service providers cater to both the domestic market and the international tourism market, given the very different interests of these groups?
Then (20:16), we dive into the derivative but possibly important new Son Tung music video, which features an appearance by the one and only Snoop Dogg. The video broke all kinds of records on YouTube, but does it signify bigger things to come for Vietnam's music industry?
As always, we c...
2019-07-1041 min
Saigoneer PodcastPreserving Architectural Heritage & the One Thing We Would Change About SaigonOn this week's show, we begin (1:10) by discussing Saigon's disappearing architectural heritage. Much has been written about the city's failure to preserve its historic buildings, particularly those from the colonial era, but at times local voices have been left out of that discourse. Who should preservation serve, and is every historic building worth saving?
Then (15:09), we share the one thing each of us would change about our beloved Saigon if given the chance to do so.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (28:46).
2019-06-2436 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe War on Plastic & Our Vietnam SuperpowersOn this week's show, we begin ̣(1:06) by discussing Vietnam's new national campaign against plastic waste. Such garbage is a massive problem here, so what do we hope to see from this effort, and what sort of impact have small-scale anti-plastic movements had?
Then (20:07), on a lighter note, we share what our Vietnam-related superpowers would be. Punching through the red tape holding back metro projects? Kicking internet cable-munching sharks in the face? Snapping half of all traffic out of existence? Listen to find out!
As always, we close (34:36) with Bánh Mì Banter (and a special email offer from Paul).
2019-06-1745 min
Saigoneer Podcast'The Third Wife' Controversy & Vietnam's Protein ConsumptionOn this week's episode we start (1:23) in the movie world. 'The Third Wife,' the critically acclaimed indie film festival darling directed by Ash Mayfair and filmed here, was released in Vietnam recently, but only lasted four days in cinemas before being pulled. We break down the controversy surrounding its use of a 13 year-old actress in erotic scenes, and what it says about Vietnam's movie-going public.
Then (15:44), we discuss a report stating that Vietnamese consume much less beef and milk on an annual basis than the global average. Is that a bad thing? What are some possible protein alternatives as...
2019-06-0336 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Laughing Gas Debate & Our Favorite SaucesOn this week's show, we begin ̣(1:14) by discussing news that officials are considering adding nitrous oxide, or laughing gas, to the list of banned substances. Balloons filled with laughing gas have become hugely popular on the local club circuit in recent years.
Then (12:47), we debate our favorite Vietnamese sauces and condiments, from green chili sauce and tamarind fish sauce to the incredible hot sauce at Hanoi's Pho Thin.
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (30:36).
2019-05-2743 min
Saigoneer PodcastVietnam's Reading Culture & Another Viewpoint on Folk WisdomIt's our 50th episode!
As unabashed bibliophiles, we care and think about book culture and trends a lot. In our first segment, we discuss what we’ve observed in light of a pretty terrifying survey of reading rates in Vietnam (2:18).
Then (20:33), we talk about idioms. While these pithy phrases are an important part of Vietnamese culture and help transmit and reflect important values, they can sometimes be problematic.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (37:44).
2019-05-1346 min
Saigoneer PodcastOverseas Vietnamese Laborers & What if a Zombie Apocalypse Hit Saigon?On this week's show, which comes a few days late due to two national holidays, we begin (1:14) by discussing challenges which Vietnamese laborers in countries like Taiwan, Saudi Arabia and Japan face, as well as some of the problems researchers have found in factories in Vietnam.
Then (16:35) we share thoughts on what would possibly happen if a zombie apocalypse hit Saigon. (NOTE: due to a technical error, the beginning of this segment was cut off.)
As always, we close with Banh Mi Banter (30:12).
2019-05-0238 min
Saigoneer PodcastA Reckoning on Child Harassment; That Burger King Ad; & 'Startup Vietnam' Author Andrew RowanWe're back from a two-week break!
On this episode, we begin (1:20) with a discussion about sexual harassment of children in Vietnam following a recent incident in which a middle-aged man molested a girl on an elevator in a Saigon apartment complex.
Then (14:39), we discuss that Burger King New Zealand ad (you know the one), as well as recent food articles involving jackfruit and kaya toast which highlight the problematic ways in which Western writers and media outlets sometimes cover Asian cuisine.
Our interview guest (28:46) is Andrew Rowan, the author of 'Startup Vietnam: Innovation & Entrepreneurship in the Socialist Republic.' Andrew...
2019-04-2259 min
Saigoneer PodcastListener MailbagHappy April Fools' Day!
On this week's episode, we sort through a pile of unsolicited listener questions ̣(0:55) and ponder answers to age-old conundrums such as "Which animal makes the best sound?"; "If you could send each of your colleagues on a trip to anywhere in the world, where would it be?"; "Which is best, 'Parks & Recreation', 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' or 'The Good Place'?"; and "If Saigoneer hosted a music festival, what would the line-up look like?"
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (35:22).
2019-04-0145 min
Saigoneer PodcastOur Favorite Vietnamese Poems; Perceptions of Foreign CuisineOn this week’s episode, we devote our extended first segment (2:14) to poetry. We each read a favorite poem by a writer of Vietnamese descent and then discuss it while looking into the context, as well as the pleasures and pitfalls of translation.
Then (35:26), we talk about a recent study which ranked the popularity of different global cuisines. We debate what may have led to Vietnam landing in the 13th spot, and then examine how other cuisines are received here.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (47:50).
2019-03-2554 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe National Senses of Vietnam, Local Street CredOn this week's episode we begin (1:17) by sharing our nominations for Vietnam's 'national senses,' if such a thing existed. What smells, sounds, sights, tastes and textures do we think best exemplify the country? The smell of pork chops grilling on a sidewalk? The Bitexco Financial Tower? Those fragrant wet wipes given out at bia hơi joints?
Then (17:36), we do an audio version of our occasional Street Cred series, which dives into the history of the people Saigon's streets are named after. This time, however, it's a bit more personal, as we explore either the streets we live on, o...
2019-03-1841 min
Saigoneer PodcastVietnamese in Reality TV Shows & the Domestic Tourism BoomOn this week's episode, we begin ̣(1:15) by discussing Vietnamese contestants on international reality TV shows who have made headlines recently, from Christine Ha on 'MasterChef US' to the Giang brothers on 'Britain's Got Talent', and several countries in between. How have they been received here?
Then (15:10), we talk about Vietnam's domestic tourism boom and the impact it is having on destinations throughout the country. Some spots, like Phu Quoc, are being massively over-developed, while local entrepreneurs in less-busy areas are opening their own guesthouses and starting businesses.
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (29:48).
2019-03-1138 min
Saigoneer PodcastVietnam's Many Lunar Calendar Festivals; Familial Pressure During HolidaysOn this week's episode, we begin (1:45) by discussing a few of the incredibly diverse, occasionally bizarre festivals that coincide with specific dates on the lunar calendar throughout Vietnam. Everyone knows about Tet and the Mid-Autumn Festival, but there are so many more beyond those two.
Then (18:42), we talk about some of the awkward questions, often about relationships, young people get asked by family members when they visit for the holidays. Why do these get asked? Should we have sympathy for the people asking them?
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (32:01).
Programming note: there won't be a new ep...
2019-02-2541 min
Saigoneer PodcastRedesigning Saigon's Parks; Recreation in the CityOn this week's episode, our first after the Tet break, we begin (1:12) with a look at Saigon's parks and precious little green space. If we were in charge of re-designing one of these areas, what would we add? A dog park? Tire swings? A wholesale re-imagining of the very concept of a park?
Then (17:16) we discuss recreation in the city. How do we find ways to exercise amid the traffic and pollution? What could be done to make this a better city for outdoor activities?
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (27:59).
2019-02-1839 min
Saigoneer Podcast[Recast] Fruit Fight, Urbanist Hanoi Launch and Saigon DuoThis episode originally aired on April 15, 2018.
Our first segment (1:28) evolved from a recent office conversation about which fruit deserves to be the national fruit of Vietnam. That debate revealed some rather controversial fruit-based opinions among our staff, so we've taken the argument to the airwaves to debate our favorites, from bottom to top tier.
Then (12:55), we call up our editor in Hanoi to discuss last week's launch of Urbanist Hanoi. What does our sister site hope to achieve, and what can we look forward to reading from the capital?
This week's interview segment (22:10) features Saigon Duo, who we mentioned in...
2019-02-1151 min
Saigoneer Podcast[Recast] Writing in a Second Language, Saigon's Japan Town and Artist Jacqueline Hoang NguyenThis episode first aired on June 10, 2018.
On episode 17 of the Saigoneer Podcast we begin (1:28) with a discussion of some of the challenges involved in writing in Vietnam, both overall and when writing in a second language such as English.
Then (15:09), we wander into Saigon's unofficial Japan Town, at the start of District 1's Le Thanh Ton Street. We talk about the area's unique history, and share some recommendations of our favorite restaurants in the area.
Our interview segment (23:09) features French-Canadian artist Jacqueline Hoang Nguyen. She shares her story, as well as her process when it comes to creating her multi-faceted...
2019-02-0442 min
Saigoneer PodcastA Tết-Themed Nhậu Roundtable SpecialThis episode, our last before the Lunar New Year, is a simple one. We enjoyed a few beers and then discussed (1:19) burning questions such as: "How would the pig fare in a brawl between the 12 zodiac animals?"; "If you could only eat one Vietnamese dish for the rest of your life, which would it be?"; and "If you could add any food or activity to Tet, what would it be and why?"
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (27:00).
Chúc mừng năm mới, and may the Year of the Pig begin auspiciously for you all!
2019-01-2832 min
Saigoneer PodcastSuperstitions, Real or Fake?; and 'The Future is Asian' Author Parag KhannaThis week's show features an extended conversation about superstitions (1:10), both Vietnamese and western. We also play a game where we guess which ones are real, and which are not.
Our interview guest (21:29) is Parag Khanna, the international relations analyst and author of the new book 'The Future is Asian: Commerce, Conflict and Culture in the 21st Century'. We talked about how Asian countries are reconnecting in the post-colonial era, and what this means for Vietnam, among other topics.
As always, we close with Bánh Mì Banter (48:26).
2019-01-2155 min
Saigoneer PodcastFood Delivery Apps and Where We Think Trump & Kim Should MeetHappy New Year! On our first episode of 2019, we begin (1:22) by discussing food delivery platforms like GrabFood and GoFood. What benefits do they create for customers, drivers and restaurants, and what problems do they present too?
Then (18:25) we suggest some potential locations for Donald Trump and Kim Jong-un to meet if Vietnam is selected for their second summit. Could one of the country's many cable car systems come into play? Also, which Vietnamese dishes should they eat while here?
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (27:48).
2019-01-1436 min
Saigoneer Podcast[Recast] Nhậu Culture, Street Food Update and a Chat with Radio 18+ Host Sam Hang TranThis episode originally aired on September 30, 2018. We will return with a new show next week!
On this week's show, we begin (1:24) with a look at nhậu culture in Vietnam. What does this age-old drinking tradition tell us about masculinity and gender in the country?
Then (13:00), we provide one of our periodic updates on recent street food and cafe finds, including an unexpected Greek spot on Hoang Sa Street and a roti cart near Ben Thanh Market.
Our interview guest (21:47) is Hang Tran, who goes by Sam. She's a Hanoi native now living in Saigon and working on pursuing a Ph...
2019-01-0754 min
Saigoneer Podcast[Recast] Fakes in Vietnam, Kick-ass Millenials and a Deep Dive on Thu ThiemThis episode originally aired on May 20, 2018.
This week we begin (1:22) with a look at the prevalence of fake goods and businesses in Vietnam, and whether or not they're a bad thing. This follows allegations that Mumuso and Minigood are actually Chinese companies, despite their Korean branding.
Then (11:36) we chat about some uber-successful Vietnamese millenials who are beating the stereotype that young people are lazy and lack business drive.
Our interview discussion (19:51) features Erik Harms, an associate professor of anthropology and Southeast Asia studies at Yale. He wrote the 2016 book 'Luxury and Rubble: Civility and Dispossession in the New Saigon...
2018-12-3156 min
Saigoneer Podcast[Recast] The Nhậu Roundtable SpecialThis episode originally aired on July 15, 2018.
On this week's show, we celebrate our 21st birthday by drinking a few alcohol-infused Japanese drinks and discussing vital matters such as:
- Which is the best district in Saigon?
- If you could remove three animals from Vietnam's Zodiac calendar, which animals would you replace them with? (Hint: we're big fans of the pangolin.)
- What do we expect people to try and bring onto Saigon's metro trains when the service opens?
- Street sushi?
And more!
There is no guest interview or Banh Mi Banter this week, so enjoy an episode full...
2018-12-2440 min
Saigoneer PodcastYear in Review and a Look Ahead to 2019On this week's show, our last of 2018, we begin (2:24) with a look back at our favorite segments, guests, moments and bánh mì banters from our first year on the air.
Then (20:39) we'll share some comments and feedback we've received from listeners over the last year, and also look ahead to some guests we'd like to speak to or segments we'd like to try in the coming year.
As always, we end with Bánh Mì Banter (31:29).
We'll be back in January, in the meantime, have a great holiday season, and thanks for listening!
2018-12-1741 min
Saigoneer PodcastEnglish as a National Language, Vietnam Cliches in Foreign Media & Food Writer Soleil HoOn this week's show, we begin (1:16) with a discussion on what it would mean for English to be named Vietnam's second national language, as recently mentioned at a conference on startups and tech innovation in Hanoi.
Then (12:28), we break down several cliches about Vietnam that we're frustrated by seeing in international media. These include an over-reliance on war references and simplistic food coverage.
Our interview guest (23:26) is Soleil Ho, the San Francisco Chronicle's new food critic and co-host of the Racist Sandwich podcast. We talked to Soleil via Skype about her background, her rise to food writing prominence in the...
2018-12-1059 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Retro/Vintage Aesthetic Trend and a Street Food UpdateOn this week's show, we begin (1:19) with a chat about the retro/vintage trend that has spread through Vietnamese cafes, restaurants, design, typography and more over the last couple of years. What does this say about nostalgia among younger generations, and what's the deal with Cong Caphe?
Then (13:22), we weigh in on one of our periodic street food updates, though this one ranges away from Saigon to Quy Nhon, Hanoi and beyond.
As always, we end with Banh Mi Banter (27:03).
2018-12-0335 min
Saigoneer Podcast[Recast] Contemporary Vietnamese Literature and the LGBTQ Community in VietnamThis episode was originally released on March 9, 2018, before we began recording in a studio. We'll be back with a new episode next week. Enjoy!
We’re back! This week we made up for lost time over our month-long break with an episode featuring two longer, in-depth conversations. Unlike in previous shows, this episode features just one staff discussion (1:18): a deep dive into contemporary Vietnamese literature, including poetry, fiction and graphic non-fiction, by both native and overseas writers.
Our extended interview segment (24:40) features a fun, wide-ranging talk on LGBTQ issues in Vietnam with Anh-Thu Nguyen, a lead organizer for Les Come Ou...
2018-11-2658 min
Saigoneer PodcastVietnam's Beauty Pageant Obsession; Bad Behavior by Vietnamese AbroadOn this week's show we begin (1:17) with a conversation on beauty pageants and their place in Vietnam. Why do these often-obscure contests get so much media coverage? What do these events say about beauty standards in the country? We also dig into what it means that a Vietnamese contestant won a pageant for transgender women earlier this year, while a woman from one of Vietnam's ethnic minority groups won another contest around the same time.
Then (15:06) we discuss a few recent cases of Vietnamese behaving badly overseas. Could these incidents have an impact on the perception of Vietnamese people internationally...
2018-11-1936 min
Saigoneer PodcastVinFast's New Electric Motorbike; Adapting Foreign Dishes to Local TastesOn this week's show, we begin (1:07) with a discussion on the Klara, the first electric motorbike model launched by VinFast, the automotive arm of Vingroup. Will Vietnamese consumers buy into electric bikes?
Then (11:00), we dive into our latest food-related segment by looking at foreign dishes such as pizza and sushi that have been adapted to Vietnamese palates. Turns out we've all been eating sushi the wrong way.
As always, we close with Banh Mi Banter (20:07).
2018-11-1227 min
Saigoneer PodcastOur Take On 'The Bachelor Vietnam'; Western Holidays in Vietnam; Combatting Human TraffickingThis week we begin (1:14) with our take on the recently concluded first season of 'The Bachelor Vietnam.' Did the show manage to escape the misogynistic shadow of its American cousin? What do we make of how the unexpected lesbian love storyline was portrayed?
Then (11:15) we take a look at western holidays such as Halloween and Christmas that are celebrated by growing numbers of Vietnamese every year. What does it mean when these days are celebrated without much of their traditional context?
Our interview guest (21:49) is Mimi Vu, Director of Advocacy and Partnerships at the Pacific Links Foundation, an American...
2018-11-0550 min
Saigoneer PodcastDrunk Driving and Finding Phong's Depiction of Transgender VietnameseWe begin this week (1:18) with a discussion on drunk driving in Vietnam in the wake of a horrific accident which occurred in Saigon early last week. What can be done to combat this perennial social issue?
Then (14:46), we look at the acclaimed documentary 'Finding Phong' and its intimate depiction of a transgender Vietnamese woman.
As always, we close with Banh Mi Banter (29:30).
2018-10-2936 min
Saigoneer PodcastCo-working Spaces and Vietnam's Four Mythological CreaturesOn this week's show, we begin with a look at the spread of co-working spaces in Saigon (1:08). What do these spaces say about work in the digital age, and do we want to use them?
Then (10:45) we look at Vietnam's four sacred mythological creatures, the dragon, kỳ lân, tortoise and phoenix, and their place in the country's culture.
As always, we end with Banh Mi Banter (22:35).
2018-10-2230 min
Saigoneer PodcastNhậu Culture, Street Food Update and a Chat with Radio 18+ Host Sam Hang TranOn this week's show, we begin (1:24) with a look at nhậu culture in Vietnam. What does this age-old drinking tradition tell us about masculinity and gender in the country?
Then (13:00), we provide one of our periodic updates on recent street food and cafe finds, including an unexpected Greek spot on Hoang Sa Street and a roti cart near Ben Thanh Market.
Our interview guest (21:47) is Hang Tran, who goes by Sam. She's a Hanoi native now living in Saigon and working on pursuing a PhD in anthropology. She runs the Vietnamese Culture Space Facebook page and hosts Radio 18+, an in...
2018-10-0154 min
Saigoneer PodcastSaigon Traffic Plans, Mid-Autumn Festival and Saigonita Founder Tam LeOn this week's show, we begin (1:36) with a look at two major plans related to traffic in Saigon: the complete repaving of Nguyen Huu Canh Street, and a proposal to create a network of minibuses to reach people who live in the city's narrow hẻm.
Then (10:23) we preview next week's Mid-Autumn Festival: how could mooncakes be improved, and what's the deal with the story of the healing banyan tree and urination?
Our interview guest (22:50) is Tam Le, a Vietnamese-American woman who runs Saigonita, a monthly closed-door restaurant featuring a creative fusion of Mexican and Vietnamese food. We discuss the d...
2018-09-1744 min
Saigoneer PodcastFast Fashion, Bubble Tea Madness Returns and Urban Tales CholonThis week we begin (1:18) with a look at fast fashion in Vietnam in the wake of UNIQLO's announcement that it will expand to the country next fall. What does the arrival of brands like H&M, Zara and UNIQLO mean for local consumers?
Then (12:14), we revive a game we played on one of our first episodes: Bubble Tea Shop, or Porno? Also, the bubble tea craze which swept into Vietnam last year has shown no signs of abating, but could this be a good thing for certain areas?
Our interview guest (21:19) is Nicolas Plesse, the founder of Urban Tales Cholon...
2018-09-1041 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Asian Olympics, Saigon's Disappointing Museum Scene & Travelfish Co-founder Stuart McDonaldOn this week's show, we begin (1:20) with a conversation about the just-concluded Asian Olympics and what they mean for Vietnam, especially in terms of football and the incredible reaction to the success of the mean's team.
Then (14:07), we cover Saigon's collection of museums and their generally poor quality. Why aren't their better museums in the city, and which locations would we recommend?
Our interview guest (22:55) is Stuart McDonald, a co-founder of the independent travel website Travelfish. We call Stuart at his home in Indonesia to talk about travel in Southeast Asia. Check out the website here: https://www.travelfish.org/
...
2018-09-0449 min
Saigoneer PodcastGender Roles in Vietnam, Public Indecency and Human Geographer Michael WaibelWe're back! On this week's show, we begin (2:04) with an extended discussion on gender roles in Vietnam. From drinking sessions to driving and the kitchen, how are the roles of men and women perceived in Vietnamese society?
Then (21:38), we look at public indecency in the country following recent viral stories involving couples having public sex inside a CGV cinema and at a bubble tea shop.
Our interview segment (31:40) features Dr. Michael Waibel from the Department of Human Geography at the University of Hamburg. We discussed his extensive experience in Vietnam, including the series of large photo books he has created...
2018-08-2750 min
Saigoneer PodcastSeafood Fight, Traditional Medicine and L'Arrange RhumThis week, we begin (1:07) with a debate over our favorite types of seafood, a conversation which turns rather philosophical in the end.
Then (12:45), we discuss traditional Vietnamese medicine, which is quite different from the more famous traditional Chinese medicine. Are various aspects of it hokum, or scientifically legitimate?
Our interview guests (25:14) are Jérémy Marcillaud and Nicolas Plesse of L'Arrange Rhum. We chatted about their decision to begin making hand-distilled rum in Saigon, and where they hope to take their craft in the future. Check out their Facebook page for more: https://www.facebook.com/larrangesaigon/
As always, we en...
2018-08-1346 min
Saigoneer PodcastExercise in Vietnam, Street Cred and Hanoi Zine LibraryThis week we begin (1:06)with a conversation about exercise in Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh championed exercise as a form of patriotism, but how have views on this subject evolved in the modern age?
Then (11:45), we revive Saigoneer's Street Cred series, though in audio form. Nearly every street in the country is named after a famous person or place, and we take turns sharing the stories behind the names of four streets.
Our guest interview (27:44) features Yen Nguyen and Ed Weinberg of the Hanoi Zine Library. They share the background of the project, and their hopes for its future. Find them...
2018-08-0653 min
Saigoneer PodcastDecadent Vietnamese Dishes and Marriage in Modern VietnamOn this week's show, we begin (1:14) by salivating over our favorite Vietnamese dishes when we're in the mood for something greasy, dirty or downright sinful.
Then (13:35) we discuss marriage and weddings in contemporary Vietnam. What do younger generations think of this social tradition, and have weddings here changed over the years?
There is no interview guest this week, but as always we close with Banh Mi Banter (26:23).
2018-07-3037 min
Saigoneer PodcastReflections from Hanoi, World Cup Madness and Cave Expert Howard LimbertOn this week's show, we begin (1:17) with a discussion on some of the micro-level differences between Hanoi and Saigon. Our co-hosts Paul and Thi recently spent nearly a week in the capital, so we dug into the character of the place.
Then (13:51) we revisited February's U23 football madness through the lens of the World Cup. Why was Vietnam's celebration so peaceful compared to that of France? What would it be like if Vietnam qualified for the tournament?
Our interview guest is Howard Limbert (25:46), former head of the British Caving Association and one of the leading experts on Vietnam's cave systems...
2018-07-2345 min
Saigoneer PodcastThe Nhậu Roundtable SpecialOn this week's show, we celebrate our 21st birthday by drinking a few alcohol-infused Japanese drinks and discussing vital matters such as:
- Which is the best district in Saigon?
- If you could remove three animals from Vietnam's Zodiac calendar, which animals would you replace them with? (Hint: we're big fans of the pangolin.)
- What do we expect people to try and bring onto Saigon's metro trains when the service opens?
- Street sushi?
And more!
There is no guest interview or Banh Mi Banter this week, so enjoy an episode full of nothing but banter! We'll return...
2018-07-1640 min
Saigoneer PodcastTransportation in Saigon, Women in Tech and a Singaporean FoodieOn this week's show, our 20th, we begin(1:17)with a semi-civil discussion about transportation in Saigon. Is walking all it's cracked up to be? Can we go beyond the car/motorbike binary? What about using the river?
Then (14:17) we look at Vietnamese women in tech, which there aren't enough of, but that doesn't mean there aren't inspirational stories out there. We fawn over Le Duy Loan, the first female Texas Instruments Senior Fellow; and Do Viet Nga, one of the architects of the VT80, Vietnam's first home-grown computer, which debuted in 1977.
Our interview segment (23:23) features Mervin Lee, a Singaporean photographer...
2018-07-0938 min
Saigoneer PodcastForgotten Traditions, Making Vietnamese Food Even Healthier and Renaissance Woman Mai NguyenOn this week's show, we begin (1:34) with a look at some traditions of past eras that have largely fallen by the wayside in this modern age, such as teeth blackening and cricket fights.
We also honor a few habits that have survived, such as kite flying and the many rituals of Tet.
Then (12:47) we look at our beloved Vietnamese cuisine and ponder some ways in which it could be even healthier and more well-balanced than it already is. This segment includes a brief fight over mayo.
Our interview segment (22:40) features Mai Nguyen, who has worked in everything from robotics and...
2018-07-0242 min
Saigoneer PodcastQueer Representation in Vietnamese Pop Culture, Street Food Update and Marou ChocolateOn this week's show, in honor of Pride Month, we begin (1:20) with a discussion on queer representation in Vietnamese pop culture. Vietnam's literature has a long history of queer characters, while modern portrayals can be problematic at times. What does this say about the country's perception of its queer community?
Then (14:41), we dig into our latest round of street food recommendations, including a light soup from Phu Yen Province and a collection of ice cream spots.
Our interview segment (23:37) features Sam Maruta, a co-founder of Marou Chocolate. We talked about the company's spontaneous beginning, as well as their efforts to...
2018-06-2544 min
Saigoneer PodcastWriting in a Second Language, Saigon's Japan Town and Artist Jacqueline Hoang NguyenOn episode 17 of the Saigoneer Podcast we begin (1:28) with a discussion of some of the challenges involved in writing in Vietnam, both overall and when writing in a second language such as English.
Then (15:09), we wander into Saigon's unofficial Japan Town, at the start of District 1's Le Thanh Ton Street. We talk about the area's unique history, and share some recommendations of our favorite restaurants in the area.
Our interview segment (23:09) features French-Canadian artist Jacqueline Hoang Nguyen. She shares her story, as well as her process when it comes to creating her multi-faceted work. Find out more about her...
2018-06-1142 min
Saigoneer PodcastFake News Euphemisms, Vegetable Fight and Stand-up Comedian Vu Minh TuThis week we begin (1:20) with a game based on news euphemisms created by local officials - for example, 'water accumulation' instead of flooding and 'not-on-time service' instead of a delayed flight. We came up with a few fake headlines featuring our own made-up euphemisms and tried to guess what they meant.
Then (9:16), we debate our favorite and least-favorite types of vegetables, a companion segment to our fruit argument from a few months ago.
Our interview segment (20:52)features Vu Minh Tu, a hilarious stand-up comedian from Hanoi who has been performing in Saigon for the last nine months. She got real...
2018-06-0437 min
Saigoneer PodcastVietnamese Folk Tales and Artist Quynh LamThis week's show features a super-sized segment on Vietnamese folk tales (1:09), in which we share some of our favorite legends and stories.
Our interview segment (22:24) features Quynh Lam, the contemporary artist known for her works which highlight the issue of being a woman in Vietnam. Find examples of her work here: https://www.quynhsequoia.com/.
As always, we close with Banh Mi Banter (33:17). Once you've finished, watch this puzzling video which we discuss during the segment: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TnYuAt9_tsI&t=5s.
2018-05-2839 min
Saigoneer PodcastFakes in Vietnam, Kick-ass Millenials and a Deep Dive on Thu ThiemThis week we begin (1:22) with a look at the prevalence of fake goods and businesses in Vietnam, and whether or not they're a bad thing. This follows allegations that Mumuso and Minigood are actually Chinese companies, despite their Korean branding.
Then (11:36) we chat about some uber-successful Vietnamese millenials who are beating the stereotype that young people are lazy and lack business drive.
Our interview discussion (19:51) features Erik Harms, an associate professor of anthropology and Southeast Asia studies at Yale. He wrote the 2016 book 'Luxury and Rubble: Civility and Dispossession in the New Saigon,' which looks at two of the...
2018-05-2156 min
Saigoneer PodcastAn Argument for Vietnamese Movies; Unique Digital Sub-cultures; and One Journalist's View of VietnamThis week we begin (1:23) with a look at the strides Vietnamese cinema has taken in recent years, both in terms of production quality and screenwriting. We also discuss why you should see local movies over foreign imports.
Then (13:02), we dive into some of the digital sub-cultures that have spawned in Vietnam thanks to the ubiquity of social media, including country-specific memes and confession pages.
Our interview segment (23:28) features Benjamin Bathke, a German journalist who recently spent three months in Vietnam interviewing business owners, entrepreneurs, academics and more. He shares a few stories from the road.
As always, we end with...
2018-05-1449 min
Saigoneer PodcastStreet Food Roundup, #MeToo in Vietnam and Dr. Phuong Mai NguyenWe begin (1:37) with a roundup of some of our favorite recent Saigon street food escapades, as listeners have asked for more food coverage. How does banh mi dim sum or a seafood feast sound to you?
Then (10:20) we examine Vietnam's potential #MeToo moment, which began with a sexual assault allegation at Tuoi Tre, one of the country's largest newspapers.
Our interview segment (21:33) is with Dr. Phuong Mai Nguyen, a Hanoi native who is now a university professor in Amsterdam, as well as a popular author and researcher.
As always, we end with Banh Mi Banter (34:14).
2018-05-0738 min
Saigoneer PodcastUnique Hobbies, Mental Health and Nomadic NotesThis week we moved into a recording studio, meaning this episode will sound different from all of our previous ones.
In our first segment we share the stories of the most unique hobbies we've come across in Saigon, including a friend who likes to burn dirt and men who groom chickens for beauty contests.
Then, we look at mental health in Vietnam through a personal lens.
Our interview segment is with James Clark, who runs the Nomadic Notes website and focuses on heritage conservation and infrastructure projects in Southeast Asia.
As always, we end with Banh Mi Banter. We're taking...
2018-04-2337 min
Saigoneer PodcastFruit Fight, Urbanist Hanoi Launch and Saigon DuoOur first segment (1:28) evolved from a recent office conversation about which fruit deserves to be the national fruit of Vietnam. That debate revealed some rather controversial fruit-based opinions among our staff, so we've taken the argument to the airwaves to debate our favorites, from bottom to top tier.
Then (12:55), we call up our editor in Hanoi to discuss last week's launch of Urbanist Hanoi. What does our sister site hope to achieve, and what can we look forward to reading from the capital?
This week's interview segment (22:10) features Saigon Duo, who we mentioned in our conversation about contemporary Vietnamese literature...
2018-04-1651 min