Vietnam Podcast: Culture, Community & Conversations

“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

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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. 

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!

"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:

• The Appeal of Vietnam for Expats: "The American dream doesn’t exist in America, it exists in Vietnam," says James, as they discuss how Vietnam offers a unique sense of freedom and opportunity for foreigners.
• The History of Vietnam Women’s Day: A discussion on the origins of Vietnam Women’s Day and how it commemorates the sacrifices of women in Vietnamese history.
• The Double-Edged Sword of American Identity Abroad: James shares stories of pretending to be Canadian while traveling, reflecting on the global perception of Americans.
• Reflections on Gun Culture in America: A candid conversation about the gun culture in the U.S., personal stories of mass shootings, and how life abroad changes perspectives on safety and freedom.

"Send me a message!"

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. 

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!

"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:

• Unexpected Journey to Vietnam: James recounts how his initial visit to Vietnam as a photography enthusiast led to an unplanned, long-term stay in a country that captured his heart.
• Vietnam's Hidden Wildlife: Learn about Vietnam’s lesser-known wildlife, including the elusive parakeets and flying squirrels that inhabit even the urban areas of Saigon.
• Conservation Success Stories: James shares how Vietnam's government has made strides in conservation, cracking down on illegal wildlife trade and supporting educational initiatives.
• Exploring Cat Tien National Park: Insight into the changes and improvements at Cat Tien National Park, and why it’s a must-visit for nature lovers looking to experience Vietnam's biodiversity.
• The Fight Against Wildlife Poaching: Discusses the illegal trade of animal parts like bear bile and pangolin scales, and the role of organizations like ENV and Save Vietnam's Wildlife in combating these issues.

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!"

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. 

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!

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:

• Pretending to Be Canadian – Tyler shares why he initially hid his American identity abroad.
• Navigating Sobriety in the Bar Scene – The challenges and growth he’s experienced as a sober bar owner.
• American Perceptions in Vietnam  – Tyler’s surprise at Vietnamese people's positive view of America.
• Living Locally in Saigon – How Tyler’s lifestyle in Vietnam differs dramatically from his life in the U.S.
• Advice for Americans Coming to Vietnam – Tyler’s top tips for Americans thinking of moving to Vietnam.

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!"

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.

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:

• Thao shares the importance of authentic storytelling in tourism: "We share Vietnam’s culture not through books, but through our own stories and experiences."
• Vietnamese kindness and generosity: Even those with little are willing to help others, a reflection of the country’s Buddhist values.
• The role of karma in Vietnamese culture helps create a positive, non-confrontational attitude, even in chaotic situations like traffic.
• Thao's unique approach to tourism focuses on connecting travelers with hidden gems and non-tourist destinations, fostering real cultural exchange.
• Thao's commitment to giving back: "Sometimes helping others is a way for us to grow and become better people."

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!"

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. 

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 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!"

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. 

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!

"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:

• Growing Up in Dak Lak - Thinh describes the tough environment of his hometown, highlighting the poor education system and his family’s struggles with work.
• The Importance of Education in Vietnamese Culture - Thinh’s parents sacrificed a lot to ensure their children had better educational opportunities in the city of Da Nang.
• Breaking Free from Family Expectations - Despite graduating with a business degree, Thinh chose to follow his passion for fitness and became a personal trainer.
• The Cultural Clash of Career Choices - Thinh shares how difficult it was to tell his traditional family that he wasn’t pursuing a stable, conventional career.
• Building a Fitness Business in Saigon - Thinh’s vision for the future includes scaling his personal training business by mentoring other trainers and eventually opening his own gym.

"Send me a message!"

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. 

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!

“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!"

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. 

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!

"I absolutely love living in Saigon, I love living in Vietnam. The people are amazing."

In this comprehensive episode of the Vietnam Podcast, host Niall Mackay blends personal experiences of living in Saigon with the journey and success of creating a globally recognized podcast. 

The episode is an 'Ask Me Anything' session where Niall answers listener questions, reflects on the growth and transformation of Vietnam, and shares intriguing personal stories and challenges. 

Key topics include insights into Vietnamese and British humor, cultural adaptations, modern amenities in Vietnam, and tips for new expats. 

Memorable moments include emotional interviews with guests and the host’s reflections on milestones like winning prestigious podcasting awards. 

Practical advice is offered for those planning to move to Vietnam, emphasizing the importance of community engagement and social platforms like Patreon.

"Send me a message!"

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. 

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!

“Living in South Korea… my eyes were bugging out of my head on vacation in Saigon.”

Mischa Smith was one of the first guests on A Vietnam Podcast in 2019!

Niall and Mischa revisit the dramatic changes in Saigon over the past eight years, highlighting the city's evolution from swamps to modern buildings.

Mischa, a long-term resident of Saigon and former sales director of Pasteur Street Brewing Company, the episode delves into their shared experiences and how both the city and their careers have developed.

Mischa shares nostalgic stories about the emerging craft beer scene in Saigon, comparing it to his time in South Korea.

They discuss the constantly changing landscape of Saigon’s food and beverage industry, touching on the growing presence of international brands and the resilient local culture.

The episode also gives listeners a behind-the-scenes look at the challenges and joys of being part of Saigon’s vibrant community while offering insights into the podcast's growth and future plans.

Key Takeaways:

1.Saigon’s Transformation: Saigon has changed drastically over the years, with modern developments continuously bumping up against the city’s old, traditional elements .

2.Craft Beer Scene Growth: The craft beer scene in Saigon was nonexistent when Mischa arrived, but it has since exploded, starting with pioneers like Pasteur Street Brewing Company .

3.Comparison of Korea and Vietnam: Mischa contrasts his experience in Korea, where the foreigner population was mostly ESL teachers and U.S. military, with Saigon, where he encountered people from various backgrounds and industries .

4.Career Shifts: Mischa’s transition from teaching ESL to becoming a sales director for Pasteur Street Brewing was influenced by his passion for craft beer and the opportunity to help grow the industry in Vietnam .

5.Challenges in the Spirits Industry: Mischa discussed the challenges of working in the spirits industry versus beer, noting that small brands face significant competition from large corporations with massive budgets.

"Send me a message!"

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. 

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!