Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024), in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this episode of Viet History Makers, host Kenneth Nguyen and co-host Kevin Pham explore the life and legacy of Nguyễn Mạnh Tường (1909–1997), a brilliant scholar, lawyer, and intellectual who embodied both the promise and peril of being a...
Feb 28, 2025•1 hr 14 min
This is a special segment for a friend of the podcast, Alex Duong, who is in need of our community's support. Alex recently was diagnosed with a rare cancer and has left blinded in one eye. In this segment, Alex shares with us his incredibly difficult health journey in the last month. Before tragedy struck, Alex was invited to open for Ronny Chieng and join Donnie Wahlberg in a spinoff of The Bluebloods TV show. All of his income for 2025 has stopped. Alex Duong needs our help. Please donate her...
Feb 25, 2025•28 min
Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024), in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this second part episode of Viet History Makers , host Kenneth Nguyen and co-host Kevin Pham examine the life and legacy of Hồ Chí Minh (1890-1969), the revolutionary leader who played a central role in shaping modern Vietnam. A towering ...
Feb 14, 2025•1 hr 5 min
Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity , in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this episode of Viet History Makers , host Kenneth Nguyen and co-host Kevin Pham examine the life and legacy of Hồ Chí Minh (1890-1969), the revolutionary leader who played a central role in shaping modern Vietnam. A towering figure in Vietnam’s struggle for independence, Hồ Chí Minh remains one of the mos...
Feb 05, 2025•1 hr 8 min
In this episode of SEA Dreams , we dive into the world of soccer in Southeast Asia—its growth, challenges, and the elusive dream of making it to the FIFA World Cup. Recently, Vietnam’s victory over Thailand made headlines, marking a significant moment for the region’s soccer scene. But despite moments of brilliance, no Southeast Asian team (other than Indonesia when it was called The Dutch East Indies in 1938) or Asian team has ever qualified for the World Cup. Join hosts Kenneth Nguyen, An Vo, ...
Feb 03, 2025•53 min
Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity, in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this episode of Viet History Makers, host Kenneth Nguyen and co-host Kevin Pham explore the life and legacy of Phạm Quỳnh (1892-1945), a prominent intellectual, writer, and statesman in modern Vietnamese history. A man of deep convictions and complex loyalties, Phạm Quỳnh’s contributions to Vietnam’s cultur...
Jan 24, 2025•1 hr 16 min
In this episode, we sit down with Theresa Costanzo Bui, a survivor of the devastating Altadena Fire of 2025. As the inferno swept through her community, Theresa faced the unimaginable moment of evacuating her home, leaving behind everything she had built over the years. Theresa shares her experiences of loss, resilience, and the hope that keeps her moving forward. We also discuss Theresa’s GoFundMe campaign at the end of the episode, which she has set up to help rebuild her life and secure a new...
Jan 18, 2025•52 min
Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity , in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this episode of Viet History Makers , host Kenneth Nguyen and Professor Kevin Pham explore the life and legacy of Nguyễn An Ninh (1900-1943) , one of the most compelling and intellectual rebels in Vietnam’s modern history. A journalist, lawyer, and revolutionary thinker, Nguyễn An Ninh’s ideas and activism...
Jan 14, 2025•1 hr 12 min
In this episode, we sit down with two leaders driving change and justice for Southeast Asian communities in the South. Our first guest, Cat Bao Le has been organizing in North Carolina and the South for over 14 years. From her early work with the Asian Law Caucus in civil rights and supporting Southeast Asian farmworkers with the United Farm Workers, to her fellowship in Viet Nam studying labor laws and policies, Cat’s journey has been rooted in advocacy and justice. As the founder of SEAC Villa...
Dec 31, 2024•1 hr 6 min
Linda Nguyen 𝙬𝙤𝙧𝙠𝙨 𝙖𝙡𝙤𝙣𝙜𝙨𝙞𝙙𝙚 𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙚𝙧𝙥𝙧𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙫𝙞𝙨𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 𝙡𝙤𝙘𝙖𝙡 𝙘𝙤𝙢𝙢𝙪𝙣𝙞𝙩𝙮 𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙯𝙚𝙧𝙨 𝙨𝙚𝙚𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙨𝙪𝙥𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙩 𝙞𝙣 𝙚𝙭𝙚𝙘𝙪𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣, 𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙣𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙙𝙚𝙖𝙨 𝙞𝙣𝙩𝙤 𝙧𝙚𝙖𝙡𝙞𝙩𝙮. She has elevated impactful projects, honoring the heritage, stories, and ideas of communities through brands, organizations, and initiatives. As a 𝙗𝙤𝙖𝙧𝙙 𝙢𝙚𝙢𝙗𝙚𝙧 𝙛𝙤𝙧 𝙫𝙖𝙧𝙞𝙤𝙪𝙨 𝙘𝙪𝙡𝙩𝙪𝙧𝙖𝙡 𝙤𝙧𝙜𝙖𝙣𝙞𝙯𝙖𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣𝙨 𝙖𝙣𝙙 �...
Dec 28, 2024•39 min
Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity , in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this episode of Viet History Makers , we delve into one of the most polarizing figures in Vietnam’s modern history: Ngô Đình Diệm, the first president of the Republic of Vietnam. Often portrayed as either a staunch nationalist who sought to forge a stable, independent South Vietnam or as an authoritarian l...
Dec 27, 2024•1 hr 10 min
Chris Tran is a teacher and content creator, born in Los Angeles, California, and now based in Vietnam. As a second-generation Vietnamese-American, he blends his heritage and personal experiences to create content about language, culture, and travel. With a background in education and a passion for storytelling, Chris strives to bridge the world and Vietnam through his educational work, YouTube content, and social media platforms. In this episode, we dive into the unique challenges of being Viet...
Dec 24, 2024•1 hr 17 min
In this episode of Southeast Asian Dreams , we tackle one of the region’s most pressing modern debates: is cryptocurrency a game-changer or a ticking time bomb for Southeast Asia's future? With its potential to revolutionize finance, empower the unbanked, and attract tech investment, crypto holds immense promise. But risks like volatility, scams, and regulatory challenges loom large. Join hosts Kenneth Nguyen, An Vo and Phil Van as they explore how cryptocurrency is reshaping Southeast Asia's ec...
Dec 17, 2024•1 hr 5 min
Kevin and Kelly Luu are a writer-director duo raised in New Bedford, Massachusetts and based in Los Angeles. Inspired by their parents' harrowing journey to America, as well as their upbringing in an underserved, predominantly non-Asian community, the brothers are drawn to telling stories about identity and overcoming trauma in extraordinary ways. They graduated from USC’s MFA film program where they wrote and directed several award-winning short films, including REAL BOY, which won best Sci-Fi ...
Dec 16, 2024•52 min
Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity , in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this episode of Viet History Makers , we ask, "How Does Someone Become A Revolutionary?" We turn our focus to Nguyễn Thị Định, a significant figure in Vietnam’s history, whose journey from a rural village to becoming a top military leader for the Viet Cong—and later a vice president of unified Vietnam—rema...
Dec 12, 2024•1 hr 5 min
Jeremy Grimaldi, Executive Producer of Netflix’s true-crime documentary What Jennifer Did, is an award-winning author, celebrated for A Daughter’s Deadly Deception: The Jennifer Pan Story. Based in Toronto, he is a seasoned crime reporter and co-founder of the production company Matchpoint Media. Paul Nguyen is an award-winning activist and filmmaker from Toronto's Jane-Finch area. In 2004, he created Jane-Finch.com to change negative stereotypes about his community. Within a short period, his g...
Dec 10, 2024•49 min
Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity , in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this episode of Viet History Makers, we ask, "Would Democracy Be Good for Vietnam?" W e turn our focus to Phan Chu Trinh, one of Vietnam's most influential thinkers and reformers, whose vision for democracy and national modernization continues to resonate. A tireless advocate for social change, Phan Chu Tr...
Dec 05, 2024•1 hr 4 min
Hoàng Nguyễn is the Director of External Affairs at AAPI Equity Alliance, a co-founding partner of the national organization Stop AAPI Hate. He currently leads the organization’s external and government relations along with policy advocacy to benefit the 1.7 million Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Los Angeles County. Previously, Hoàng served as a policy and political aide to Los Angeles County Supervisor Hilda Solis, who has governing jurisdiction over more than 2 million residents with...
Dec 04, 2024•58 min
Trong tập đầy cảm xúc của The Vietnamese Podcast, host Kenneth Nguyễn trò chuyện cùng đầu bếp huyền thoại Helene An, người thường được mệnh danh là "mẹ đỡ đầu của ẩm thực fusion Mỹ." Từ không gian sang trọng của nhà hàng mang tính biểu tượng Crustacean ở Beverly Hills, Chef Helene chia sẻ câu chuyện cuộc đời phi thường của mình—một hành trình đầy nghị lực, đổi mới, và tình yêu sâu sắc với di sản văn hóa Việt Nam. Cùng nhau, chúng tôi khám phá những thử thách và gian nan đã định hình con đường củ...
Dec 02, 2024•1 hr 25 min
In this episode of SEA Dreams , we dive into one of the most delicious debates: which Southeast Asian dish reigns supreme? From pho to pad thai, curries to nasi lemak, the region's culinary diversity is a feast for the senses. But with so many incredible dishes to choose from, how do we decide which one truly takes the crown? Join hosts Kenneth Nguyen and An Vo (missing our third co host Phil Van) as they are joined by two special guests: Benny Tran, a world traveler and global ambassador for th...
Nov 28, 2024•57 min
Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity , in this sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of Bao Dai, the last emperor of Vietnam, whose reign marked the twilight of the Nguyen dynasty and the turbulent crossroads of Vietnamese history. From his privileged upbringing in the royal court to his complex role as both a symbol of tradition and a figure...
Nov 27, 2024•59 min
Join host Kenneth Nguyen and series co-host Kevin Pham, author of The Architects of Dignity , in this compelling sub-series of the podcast, exploring the key figures and moments in Vietnamese history. In this episode, we deep dive into the life and legacy of Phan Boi Chau, a trailblazing revolutionary who played a crucial role in shaping the early discourse on Vietnamese nationalism. From his humble upbringing to his profound contributions to society, we examine how Phan Boi Chau laid the intell...
Nov 19, 2024•1 hr 1 min
In this episode of SEA Dreams, we delve into the rise of digital nomadism and its unique relationship with Southeast Asia. What began as a niche lifestyle for remote workers has now evolved into a global movement—but how has Southeast Asia become a hub for these modern wanderers? From the co-working cafés of Bali to the bustling nomad communities in Ho Chi Minh City and Chiang Mai, we explore the factors that make this region so attractive. Low costs of living, vibrant cultures, and welcoming co...
Nov 15, 2024•1 hr 12 min
Join Dr. Thao Ha—a sociology professor with a backstory of survival and resilience. In this episode of The Vietnamese podcast, Kenneth Nguyen hosts Dr. Thao Ha as they discuss the outcomes of the 2024 presidential election, exploring why “the Dems didn't see the other side coming so strong” and how we can bridge divides in the aftermath. Dr. Ha’s story offers her perspective on social issues and the urgent need for understanding each other. It’s not everyday a sociology teacher can talk about st...
Nov 11, 2024•1 hr 45 min
In this episode of SEA Dreams, we explore the Michelin star rating system’s journey from its beginnings as a French tire company’s travel guide to its status as a global authority on fine dining. But can one rating system really capture the full spectrum of culinary excellence worldwide? As Michelin expands into Southeast Asia—covering everything from Singapore’s fine dining to Bangkok’s vibrant street food—questions arise about the balance between global standards and local flavors. Join us as ...
Nov 05, 2024•1 hr 40 min
Sean Porter is a Vietnamese comedian born and raised in LA, and has been featured on season 2 of HBO’s Sweet Life: Los Angeles, Kevin Hart’s Laugh Out Loud Radio on Sirius XM, Pop TV's Hollywood Darlings, as well as other shows buried deep into the basic cable abyss. When he's not working for scale, he can be seen performing stand-up regularly at The Comedy Store, The Laugh Factory, Flappers Comedy Club, The Ice House, The Hollywood Improv, and Supernova Comedy. He also produces his monthly show...
Nov 01, 2024•1 hr 10 min
Join us as we look into the histories behind civil law and common law , examining how these legal frameworks influence governance, judiciary processes, and even day-to-day life in Southeast Asian countries. Have you ever wondered why some countries have a more codified, statute-driven approach to law while others rely heavily on judicial rulings and precedents? With insights into colonial legacies, religious influences, and local customs, this episode will explore the unique blend of legal tradi...
Oct 29, 2024•1 hr 15 min
Kevin Pham is an Assistant Professor of Political Theory at the University of Amsterdam. He is the author of The Architects of Dignity: Vietnamese Visions of Decolonization (Oxford University Press, 2024), the first book to bring Vietnamese political thought into the academic field of political theory. He co-hosts a podcast called Nam Phong Dialogues: Casual Chats on Vietnamese History. -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Many of you...
Oct 25, 2024•1 hr 16 min
Louie Nguyen is a seasoned global investor, with a particular focus on disruptive endeavors and mobilizing capital and human resources to solve community pain points. Prior to joining Mission Driven Finance, Louie founded Soledad Investment Management, where he made global investments including impact-oriented investments in Vietnam. Earlier in his career, he worked directly with company founder Charles Brandes as an institutional portfolio manager for high-profile North American and Asian insti...
Oct 23, 2024•1 hr 1 min
Khue Pham was born in Berlin in 1982 to a Vietnamese family and her love for storytelling began with childhood trips to the library. From writing poems as a teen to becoming an award-winning journalist and author, her journey reflects both her passion and dedication to exploring complex themes of home and identity. After studying Communications at Goldsmiths College and Sociology at the London School of Economics, Khue pursued her love for writing, working nights at The Guardian while honing her...
Oct 21, 2024•1 hr 24 min
