In this episode, host Francine Barchett interviewed Dr. Eric Thompson, an Associate Professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology at the National University of Singapore. He describes the development and recent publication of his book, "The Story of Southeast Asia." Cutting across anthropology, archeology, history, and other disciplines, Dr. Thompson recounts the many regional themes that had inspired this writing. He reconsiders colonialism’s influence in Southeast Asia, highlights its unique interplay of religions and religious diversity, and revisits the long-standing debate: what actually is Southeast Asia? He also surprises Francine with some unexpected tidbits, including a fun fact involving none other than Taylor Swift and the Kansas City Chiefs. Lightning Round: 3:36 Research and fieldwork summary: 11:03 Advice for researchers and recommendations: 47:33

Eric Thompson’s top recommendations: 

• This Earth of Mankind - a film adaptation of Bumi Manusia by Pramoedya Ananta Toer 

• Mat Kilau: Kebangkitan Pahlawan by Syamsul Yusof 

• Sultan Agung Mataram 1628 and Kartini: Princess of Java by Hanung Bramantyo

The music on the podcast is from "14 Strings!", a Filipino style Rondalla group established in Cornell University. Check them out here. Produced by Adam Farihin, Neen Tangcharoenmonkong, and Cecilia Liu.