The Honest Drink Podcast

Episoder

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  Cyrus Janssen: It's Not All Scary 05.08.2026 1t 19min

  Cyrus Janssen is a YouTuber and speaker on China and the world.  Today we talk about countering fear-driven narratives about other countries, being a "global citizen", and its impact on how we engage or disengage with the rest of the world.  We also talk about Chinese brands in America, as cost-of-living pressures rise and US domestic polarization and war continues.  Cyrus also describes how he was recently offered $10,000 US dollars to lie to his viewers, and how the money was ultimately traced back to perhaps the most recognizable AI company in the world.   _____________________ 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, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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  Julie Sun: Love Practically 20.07.2026 1t 41min

  Julie Sun is a brand marketer and content creator who creates English content on Instagram and TikTok as, "Julie your China friend", explaining Chinese culture and dating to foreigners. Having worked in international marketing across the world, her sociological research has brought her traveling to over 30 countries, often by herself. Now she uses her voice to introduce modern China to a Western audience, providing an honest perspective on Chinese society, dating and everyday life. Today we talk about modern society and the search for our place in it. We talk about when after receiving countless messages from foreign men asking her to help them find a Chinese wife, Julie found herself researching China's matchmaking industry—and what she discovered raised difficult questions about love, practicality, immigration, family expectations, and whether the search for the "perfect partner" has become one of the defining struggles of our generation. We talk about differences between Western and Chinese communication styles, criticism and social norms around hugging, staying friends with exes, and saying "I love you". We also get into marriage customs like cai li or dowry, financial independence, and the quarter-life crisis.   
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  190- Eric Hovagim: The New American Dream 07.07.2026 1t 51min

  Eric Hovagim is an American content creator, industrial engineer and political commentator who, in his own words, "moved to China in late 2025 to escape the American Century of Humiliation".  He's worked in politics in his home state of Arizona and in New York City, producing a handful of videos that helped get Zohran Mamdani elected NYC mayor in 2025.  Recently, Eric has been producing content for popular political commentator, Hasan Piker.  He was also previously part of a climate-policy think tank in the US and an engineer on the Hyperloop team.  Today, we talk about why Eric is here in China and what he hopes to learn.  He shares his frustrations with the state of affairs in the US and the crisis of the American dream.  He argues the need for revolutionary change and optimism as we talk about what he's observing and studying from his experience in China that he could one day bring back to America.  We also talk about our experiences with policing and surveillance in China, societal fear, AI concerns, Eric's self-identification as a socialist and what annoys him being here.  We share plenty of laughs in an otherwise serious discussion, and we might also have offended all French people.    _____________________ 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, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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  189- Raffe, BT & Dino: To Live and Die in Shanghai pt.2 16.06.2026 1t 25min

  Raffe is the owner of Cantina Agave,  the very first Mexican restaurant in Shanghai.  Today he is joined by some old friends, BT and Dino on the podcast, as we celebrate Cantina's 18th anniversary and the launch of his new restaurant, Vice.  We talk about why he's stayed in Shanghai and discuss the constant pressure to keep up with this unique city, the challenges of running F&B amid unpredictable rules and high turnover, and how the city shifted from "wild east" days to stricter, safer, more equal enforcement.  We compare Shanghai's convenience and safety with rising costs, crime, and lenient enforcement in the U.S., especially LA, and talk about perspective, media-driven fear, and cultural adaptation. We talk about a renaissance in Shanghai's dining scene, social media's impact, and Cantina's clientele flipping to 70% local Chinese. We also end the episode with a blindfolded taco taste test that doesn't go as planned.   _____________________ 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, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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  Daniel Dumbrill: Why Western Narratives About China Don't Work Anymore 19.05.2026 1t 41min

  Daniel Dumbrill is a geopolitical commentator, independent journalist, and entrepreneur.  He is known for his in-depth analysis of China, global politics, media narratives, and the shifting balance of power in an increasingly multipolar world.  His commentary explores US-China relations, international affairs, and how media framing influences public understanding of global events. Daniel is recognized for challenging conventional narratives and encouraging audiences to examine geopolitical issues with a critical and evidence-based approach.  Today we talk about defending China against Western propaganda.  How control of information is influencing global discussion, society, and personal beliefs.  We also talk about life in China, the great firewall, censorship, and lessons from China's past.   _____________________ 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, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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  187 - YI: The Love Bomb 14.04.2026 1t 48min

  YI is the owner of fine jewelry brand YI Collection and former stylist for Vogue China.  Today we talk about "love bombing", attraction, sex and the city…literally.  We talk about the differences in what men and women might be attracted to and the games we play when we're in the chase.  We talk about rejection, self-worth, appearance vs personality, and judging faces.  YI shares her mindset after leaving a relationship of eight years, her views on independence, loneliness, monogamy, white expat men, and dating strategies like negging and acting dumb. We discuss ethnicity and identity as Chinese-Americans, changing beauty standards, and the importance of health and fitness in maintaining marriages and relationships.  We also talk about squat toilets.   _____________________ 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, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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  186. Dr. Steve Vinay Gunther: The Truth About Us 29.03.2026 2t 9min

  Dr. Steve Vinay Gunther is a renowned Australian Gestalt psychotherapist and founder of the acclaimed Northern Rivers Gestalt Institute in Australia.  He is also the author of the bestselling book "The Woman In Your Life - A Man's Guide to a Happy Relationship".  He has been in practice for over 40 years with an accomplished career in psychology, working with individuals, couples and families from all over the world.  Today, Dr. Gunther shares why his focus shifted to China and we get into a deep conversation about relationships.  We talk about what prevents us from sustaining healthy relationships and when to walk away.  We cover failed marriages, self-awareness, listening for "grains of truth" and men's difficulty identifying and expressing deeper feelings.   We talk about shame, "un-virtues" and why running away from pain doesn't work.  We also discuss the over-simplification of therapy in this digital age, the dangers of using AI for emotional guidance, and a wholistic way of perceiving our own existence called systems thinking.  We explore relationships from at least three levels, the relationship with ourselves, the ones we love, and society.  Join us as we uncover some hard truths. www.gestalt2027shanghai.com www.gti.today www.learngestalt.com _____________________ 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, 小红书, 小宇宙, 网易云音乐, Ximalaya, YouTube, Bilibili or anywhere else you get your podcasts.
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  185 - Matt Chen: A Chinese Time In My Life 12.02.2026 1t 35min

  Matt Chen is a Chinese American entrepreneur, social media content creator, and builder of Daily Hanzi, an app helping people learn to read Chinese.  Currently at 24 years old he's decided to ditch his aerospace engineering degree and restart his life by moving to China.  Focused on bridging East and West through content about language, culture and identity he hopes to reconnect with his Asian heritage while improving his own Chinese literacy, finding a different path for himself in a new world.  Today, we talk about Matt's experience growing up in the US as an ABC and compare it to our own experience from an older generation.  We talk about his choice to move to China just ten months ago, his revelation during a job interview with a US defense contractor, and what's behind the "A Very Chinese Time In My Life" trend happening in America.  We also talk about the broad anxiety amongst his younger generation, finding purpose, and balancing digital and analog life.   Happy Chinese New Year! _____________________ 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.
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  Chocolate, Weapons & Midlife - James Wu & Charles Zeng 27.01.2026 1t 44min

  We are joined by friends of the show Charles Zeng, owner of Charlie's Burger, and James Wu visiting from the U.S.  Today we debate the pros and cons of having kids or not.  James shares his reasoning on his and his wife's decision not to have kids.  We talk about societal pressures, its impact on marriage and our thoughts on using physical force when it comes to disciplining our kids.  We talk about chasing happiness, comparing kids to chocolate, and our biggest fears when it comes to growing old.  We talk about the midlife crisis, aging and managing anger day to day. _____________________ 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.
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  183 - Happy In The New Year 06.01.2026 1t 5min

  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.
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  182 - Rico Zhang: On An Island 23.12.2025 1t 59min

  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.
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  181 - The HaHa Monsters 08.12.2025 1t 41min

  In this special episode, the hosts delve into the theme of rushing through life and reflect on their personal experiences with close friendships. They discuss the difficulty of savoring moments, and the significance of 'Irish goodbyes'.  The conversation centers around Aric's impending move to California, exploring the emotional and practical implications for their friendship and the future of the podcast. They also touch on the broader societal impacts of AI and their evolving perspectives. Despite the impending changes, the hosts affirm their commitment to their deep-rooted friendship and the continuation of the podcast. _____________________ 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.
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  180 - Tilman Rieger: Life, Death, and In-Between 18.11.2025 1t 36min

  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.
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  179 - c.j. Ng: Why You Suck At Selling 28.10.2025 1t 7min

  c.j. Ng is a sales, leadership, and experiential learning coach.  He has helped companies ranging from Google, Volvo to Swarovski.  Today we talk about the often-overlooked skill of sales, not just as a career, but as a life-altering tool. We explore the nuances of effective communication, the need for empathy, and the fine line between influence and manipulation. We also discuss the challenges of giving and receiving feedback in professional environments, particularly in Asian cultures.  We discuss if it's better to give feedback anonymously or not.  Whether you're in sales or another industry, c.j. emphasizes the importance of learning how to sell—be it a product, an idea, or yourself. _____________________ 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.
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  178 - Dr. George Hu: Brave New World 24.09.2025 2t 5min

  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.
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  177 - Cyrus Janssen: A Break In The Wall 19.08.2025 2t 2min

  Cyrus Janssen is a YouTuber, speaker and self-proclaimed US-China ambassador.  He returns to discuss his experiences and observations on the evolving relationship between China and the US, from ground level.  Today we talk about cultural exchange, economic challenges and its impact on both Chinese and American society.  We talk about the recent trend of travel vloggers and YouTubers coming to China, the rise of Chinese soft power from Wukong, Deepseek to Labubu, and its effect on American youth.  We also talk about the potential of US and China working more closely together, tariffs and societal values. _____________________ 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.
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  176 - Arthur Jones: Tip Of The Iceberg 29.07.2025 1t 55min

  Arthur Jones is a British documentary filmmaker and co-host of the "飞天胡说" podcast.  He directed "The Six" (六人), a documentary about the untold story of the six Chinese survivors onboard the Titanic.  Executive produced by James Cameron, the film explores an extraordinary story of survival and dignity in the face of racism and anti-immigration policy.  Today we talk to Arthur about his film "The Six" as we dive into broader themes of identity, heritage, trauma, resilience and exclusion.   _____________________ 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.
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  175- Ron Lee: The AI Dumpling Dilemma 03.07.2025 2t 6min

  Ron Lee is an award-winning creative technologist and VP, head of growth at Monks, a digital-first marketing, technology services and consulting company.  He is a technical expert in the fields of digital interaction, game experience, connected retail, and integrated design.  As an industry opinion leader, Ron has been invited by media and top industry conferences to share insights on AI, future brand experience and interactive technology.  His work includes complex tech projects for clients such as, Huawei, Vivo, Oppo, Amazon, Nike, Adidas just to name a few.  Today we talk about the rapidly evolving world of AI and its impact on creativity, work and family.   _____________________ 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.
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  174 - Lily Lam: A Change Gonna Come 11.06.2025 1t 59min

  Lily Lam is a content creator and designer based in New York City.  She creates content that speaks to underrepresented voices and is an influencer within the world of Magic: The Gathering.  Today, we talk about gentrification in New York's Chinatown, cultural identity as Chinese-Americans, and the recent rise of Chinese soft power.  Lily shares her thoughts on deep systemic problems in America and we discuss how American perceptions of China are shaped and how they're now changing.  We talk about Lily's personal transgender experience, transitioning, its impact on her family, and finding inner peace in a new, yet familiar identity.  We also talk about fashion and how it can be a useful tool in building personal confidence through individual style instead of chasing trends.  This is a heartfelt discussion on identity, acceptance, and change. _____________________ 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.
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  173. Jason Oakley: The Bite 27.05.2025 1t 23min

  Jason Oakley is a renowned Chef who has spent his career working in multiple Michelin star restaurants and 5 star hotels around the world, including the Mandarin Oriental, St Regis, Peninsula, Wynn Las Vegas, the French Laundry and 3 on the Bund just to name a few.  Having spent a career serving upscale fine dining patrons, he now pursues his real passion with Sub Standard, a humble neighborhood sandwich store making some of Shanghai's most popular sandwiches, keeping it casual, accessible and unpretentious.  Sub Standard frequently tops the charts for most repeat customers on China's biggest food delivery apps.  Today we talk about why Shanghai never had a good sandwich culture, the ups and downs of western cuisine in China, and the cliche of "popular" western dishes here.  We also talk about corruption with the Michelin guide ratings, why authentic Italian pizza is bad and fighting mosquitoes at night. _____________________ 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.