By Seven Million Bikes Podcasts
4.8
1212 ratings
The podcast currently has 306 episodes available.
"In the West, we say hospitality; in Vietnam, it’s still just F&B. Bridging that gap is everything to me." – Jason Pham
This episode with Jason was truly inspiring. Jason’s journey from Australia to Saigon, rooted in his family’s refugee story, brings so much depth to what he does in the hospitality industry here in Vietnam.
He’s not only a skilled mixologist but also an incredible storyteller, blending Vietnamese and Western influences in a way that’s reshaping Saigon’s cocktail scene.
Our conversation really highlights the passion, creativity, and hard work behind his bars, and I think listeners will walk away with a new appreciation for the artistry involved in every drink he serves.
- Niall Mackay
Key Takeaways:
Chapters:
10:00 - The Secret Ingredients to the Perfect Negroni
22:00 - How Jason Builds Community Through Hospitality
40:00 - Serving Saigon’s Diverse Clientele: Expats and Vietnamese Elites
58:00 - Growing Up Australian-Vietnamese: Jason’s Cultural Journey
01:02:00 - Why Vietnam is a Land of Opportunity for Viet Kieu and Entrepreneurs
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Episode Sponsors:
7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!
Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.
The full list of winners is here.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
“Vietnamese culture values relationships deeply; we believe in kindness as a way of life, not a strategy.” - Jessie Nguyen
Join Niall Mackay as he interviews Jessie Nguyen, a marketing manager at NFQ, about the rapidly changing image of Vietnam. In this episode of A Vietnam Podcast, Jessie sheds light on Vietnam’s rising generation, the power of Gen Z, and their role in reshaping the country’s global identity. From her move from rural Northern Vietnam to Saigon’s bustling tech scene, Jessie shares her personal experiences and unique insights into the evolution of Vietnam’s culture, economy, and tech landscape.
With a focus on entrepreneurship, innovation, and resilience, this episode explores how young Vietnamese are redefining workplace culture, blending Western influences with traditional values, and moving away from war-torn stereotypes. Discover why Vietnam is becoming an emerging hub for technology and sustainability, and what makes the Vietnamese workforce so unique in Southeast Asia.
If you're interested in Vietnamese culture, Gen Z empowerment, and the country’s transformative journey, don’t miss this inspiring conversation.
Key Takeaways:
Gen Z and Self-Empowerment in Vietnam – How young Vietnamese are prioritizing authenticity, collaboration, and purpose in the workplace, breaking traditional hierarchy.
Vietnam’s Image Evolution – Jessie discusses Vietnam’s shift from historical stereotypes to a modern identity focused on progress and innovation.
The Entrepreneurial Spirit of Vietnam – Discover how entrepreneurship is embedded in Vietnamese culture and key to the nation’s rapid economic growth.
Embracing Technology and Sustainability – How Vietnam is progressing toward a sustainable, tech-forward economy, led by Gen Z and local businesses.
Balancing Global Influence with Local Identity – Gen Z is blending Western influences with Vietnamese traditions, creating a unique and dynamic cultural identity.
Chapters & Timestamps:
03:00 – Gen Z: Vietnam’s New Generation Redefining Work
08:00 – Vietnam’s Growing Economic Landscape
15:00 – Moving Away from War Stereotypes
19:00 – Embracing Innovation, Technology, and Sustainability
25:00 – Global Influences and Personal Branding in Vietnam
30:00 – Vietnam’s Unique Workforce in Southeast Asia
42:00 – A Vision for a Sustainable Future in Vietnam
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Episode Sponsors:
7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!
Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.
The full list of winners is here.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
"We’re taught in the U.S. that we are the pillars of the world. But living abroad, you realize how untrue that is." – James
Niall Mackay, Adrie, Mischa, James, Will and Shelly gather at East West Brewing Company to celebrate Vietnam Women’s Day and reflect on what it means to live as expats in Vietnam. The conversation weaves through cultural observations, from the special significance of Vietnam Women’s Day to the complexities of being an American living abroad. They dive into personal stories about embracing new cultural perspectives, the quirks of expat life, and the unique charm of Vietnam that makes it feel like home. With plenty of laughs, unexpected debates, and a bit of free-flowing beer, this episode captures the essence of Saigon's expat community while offering thoughtful reflections on life, freedom, and the challenges of living between worlds.
Key Takeaways:
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Episode Sponsors:
7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!
Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.
The full list of winners is here.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
"All tortoises are turtles, but not all turtles are tortoises—just like not all who wander are lost."
Niall Mackay sits down with James Hunt, an American expat in Vietnam known for his restaurant ventures like Brick and Barrel and Big Boss Bistro. However, James's story extends far beyond the world of fried chicken and culinary pursuits. He delves into his passion for wildlife photography, which initially drew him to Vietnam, and how it eventually led him to explore and document some of the country’s rarest creatures, including King Cobras and critically endangered species like pangolins.
James also shares the challenges and joys of navigating Vietnam’s stunning landscapes, from the rich biodiversity of Cat Tien National Park to remote, unexplored regions along the Laos border. Together, Niall and James discuss the growing awareness of conservation in Vietnam, touching on how recent government policies and grassroots efforts are making a difference. It’s a conversation about adventure, discovery, and the importance of preserving Vietnam's natural beauty.
Takeaways:
Chapters and Timestamps:
02:00 - Meeting James Hunt: From Fried Chicken to Photography
05:30 - How Vietnam Became Home for James
10:15 - Opening Restaurants During COVID: Big Boss Bistro and Brick and Barrel
14:20 - The Hidden Wildlife of Vietnam: Snakes, Birds, and More
18:15 - Conservation Efforts in Vietnam: A Changing Landscape
23:00 - Illegal Wildlife
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Episode Sponsors:
7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!
Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.
The full list of winners is here.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
In Vietnam, they love Americans—even with all the history.
Niall Mackay sits down with Tyler, an American expat and bar owner in Saigon, who shares his colorful experiences adjusting to life in Vietnam and the journey that led him there. From his early days pretending to be Canadian in Australia to avoid stereotypes, to his later years in Vietnam navigating the complexities of cross-cultural living, Tyler provides a blend of humor and insight into the expatriate life.
The conversation touches on Tyler’s decision to give up drinking while still running a bar and the unexpected challenges this brings in an industry where camaraderie often involves sharing a drink. He reflects on cultural differences, like Vietnam's forgiving attitude toward Americans despite past conflicts, and contrasts his life in Saigon with his experiences in the U.S. The episode is both lighthearted and thought-provoking, providing listeners with a unique perspective on expatriate life in Southeast Asia.
Key Takeaways:
Chapters:
01:00 - Debating Free Flow Alcohol
02:00 - Reflections on Drinking Habits
05:00 - Cultural Adjustments in Vietnam
06:00 - Experiences in Australia as 'Captain Canada'
10:00 - Perceptions of America Abroad
14:00 - Living Locally in Vietnam
16:00 - Cultural Differences and Adjustments
17:00 - Driving and Traffic Experiences
19:00 - Advice for Americans Moving to Vietnam
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
"The best part of Vietnam isn't just the stunning landscapes—it's the people, whose kindness and generosity leave a lasting impact." – Thao Nguyen
Niall Mackay welcomes Thao Nguyen, a passionate advocate for Vietnam's culture, history, and the genuine connections that make the country special. Thao, who hails from the Mekong Delta and has over nine years of experience in the tourism industry, shares her journey from studying business administration to starting her own tour company. She emphasizes the importance of providing authentic experiences that go beyond typical tourist attractions, helping visitors connect deeply with Vietnam's culture and people.
Together, Niall and Thao explore the rapid changes Vietnam has undergone over the past few decades, as well as the unique cultural values that continue to thrive despite modernization. Thao talks about the joy of sharing her country's traditions through personal stories, fostering a sense of belonging among her tour guests. The episode also delves into her charitable efforts, including creating opportunities for local Vietnamese to practice English with foreigners and supporting underprivileged communities.
Key Takeaways:
Chapters and Timestamps:
02:00 -Thao's Background: Growing up in the Mekong Delta and discovering her passion for tourism.
05:00 - Rapid Change and Modernization in Vietnam
12:00 - The Heart of Vietnamese Culture: Kindness, generosity, and the influence of Buddhism.
16:00 - Navigating Vietnam’s Traffic: The surprising calm in the chaos.
22:00 - Creating Meaningful Connections through Tourism: Thao’s unique approach to tours.
25:00 - Giving Back to the Community: Thao’s charity work and English clubs.
31:00 - Challenging Stereotypes: Un
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Episode Sponsors:
7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!
Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.
The full list of winners is here.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
“The air in Hanoi was so polluted that some days, we couldn’t even see the mountains. Then COVID hit, and suddenly we had blue skies.”
In this episode of The Saigon Sunday Sessions, Niall Mackay dives deep into the age-old debate between Vietnam’s two major cities: Saigon and Hanoi. Joined by guests Paul Villanova and Krista Bernard with Adrie Lopez Mackay, they explore their personal experiences living in both cities, sharing everything from lifestyle differences to humorous anecdotes about motorbike adventures and the impact of pollution on daily life.
Key Highlights:
1.Moving from Hanoi to Saigon: Krista reflects on the decision to move from Hanoi after five years, citing job opportunities and life circumstances that led the couple to embrace Saigon’s vibrancy.
2.Cultural Differences: The group discusses the contrasting personalities of the two cities, with Hanoi’s slower-paced, community-centered life versus the fast-paced, cosmopolitan vibe of Saigon.
3.Traffic Chaos: The panel shares their often-comical motorbike experiences, navigating the chaotic traffic of both cities, and Krista describes her journey of learning to ride in Vietnam’s unpredictable streets.
4.Pollution Concerns: Air quality is a significant topic, with the guests comparing the smog-filled skies of Hanoi to the relatively clearer air in Saigon, particularly after COVID lockdowns.
5.Bia Hoi Culture: A quintessential part of Hanoi life, the discussion highlights the local tradition of Bia Hoi, inexpensive fresh beer that fosters community gatherings in Hanoi, and the noticeable absence of this in Saigon’s upscale bar scene.
Episode Breakdown:
[00:01:00] Moving from Hanoi to Saigon: Paul and Krista’s story
[00:07:00] Motorbike Adventures: Learning to ride in Vietnam
[00:11:00] Cultural Differences between the North and South
[00:18:00] Air Pollution: Living with the haze in Hanoi and Saigon
[00:26:00] Bia Hoi vs. Saigon’s bar scene: Social life in both cities
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Episode Sponsors:
7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!
Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.
The full list of winners is here.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
"It’s not about defying my family—it’s about choosing a life that fits who I am."
Niall Mackay sits down with Thinh Dang, a young personal trainer from Vietnam with a fascinating story. Thinh shares his journey from growing up in Dak Lak, moving to Da Nang for education, and ultimately ending up in Saigon, where he has built a successful career as a personal trainer—despite his family’s traditional expectations for him to follow a more conventional career path.
Thinh reveals how his family worked tirelessly to provide him and his siblings with better educational opportunities. Despite the pressure to conform to the typical expectations of a stable office job, Thinh followed his passion for fitness, which has not only given him personal fulfillment but also allowed him to carve out a successful business. This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating the crossroads between family expectations and personal dreams.
Key Takeaways:
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Episode Sponsors:
7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!
Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.
The full list of winners is here.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
“It’s a relief living in a place where I don’t have to worry about guns on a daily basis. In the U.S., there’s always that undercurrent of fear, but here in Vietnam, it’s not something I ever have to think about.”
In this inaugural episode of Saigon Sunday Sessions, Niall Mackay sits down with his wife, Adrie Lopez Mackay, to explore what it’s like living in Vietnam as an American. The conversation delves into Adrie’s first impressions, the cultural perceptions surrounding Vietnam, and how they both adjusted to life in Saigon over the past eight years. The discussion covers everything from Vietnam’s growing craft beer scene to the impact of American foreign policy and even reflections on visiting the War Remnants Museum.
Key Highlights:
1. American Perceptions of Vietnam: Adrie shares her initial apprehensions as an American moving to Vietnam, reflecting on the long-standing stereotypes related to the Vietnam War and how those were challenged once she arrived.
2. Cultural Reflections: The couple compares cultural experiences in Vietnam with Adrie’s upbringing in the U.S., highlighting the Vietnamese people’s warmth, acceptance, and resilience, especially given the historical context.
3. Living in Saigon as a Foreigner: The challenges of adjusting to life in Saigon are explored, from navigating the local food scene to understanding Vietnam’s mix of modern and traditional elements. Adrie and Niall also touch on practicalities like transportation, shopping, and maintaining a connection to American culture while living abroad.
4. The War Remnants Museum: A visit to the War Remnants Museum stands out as a pivotal moment in reshaping Adrie’s understanding of the Vietnam War from a Vietnamese perspective, offering an emotional and sobering experience for both.
5. Comparing Vietnam and the U.S.: Adrie offers insights into how living in Vietnam provides a break from the gun culture and political turbulence of the U.S., emphasizing the sense of safety and community she feels in Saigon.
Introduction to the Saigon Sunday Sessions – [00:01:00]
Visiting the War Remnants Museum – [00:05:00]
Vietnamese People’s Forgiveness – [00:09:00]
Cultural Differences in Education about the Vietnam War – [00:11:00]
Living in Saigon: A Mix of Tradition and Modernity – [00:14:00]
Gun Culture in the U.S. vs. Vietnam – [00:40:00]
"Send me a message!"
Become a Bắp Xào Đâyer in our community on Patreon and become part of something special.
You can choose a Cà phê sữa đá, Bánh mì, Cơm tấm, Bún Thịt Nướng or the ultimate level, a Bắp Xào Đây.
Episode Sponsors:
7 Bridges Brewing Co. - An award winning Vietnamese craft brewery from Da Nang, with breweries across Vietnam!
Tenzing Pacific - I highly recommend them for their professional advice related to personal, family, and business insurance.
The full list of winners is here.
Support the show
This show is produced by Seven Million Bikes Podcasts.
If you would like to work with them too check out their website!
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