ComebaCK: Recent Episodes
Conor Kelly
The comeback beats the setback. Interviews with a variety of people from all over the world on a range of topics. Nothing off limits. Main themes include triumph over adversity, creative projects, expat life, and a general cold one and chat. You find out more about the project at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Chris William Day is a Saigon based musician and expat who has founded and fronted his own Linkin Park tribute act ‘Meteora’ and joins me to discuss his musical journey, evolution, love of Linkin Park and more. SHOWS For Saigon - 18 May - Funk Factory Saigon 25 May - Indika Saigon If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Hien Claire joins the podcast with a unique story which I haven’t yet heard - what is it like being abandoned as a child? Hien was left under a bridge as a baby in 1993 and subsequently taken to an orphanage where she grew up until the age of eight, moving to France with her adopted family. Throughout this conversation Hien shares her lessons from this ordeal, why her faith in God has allowed her to bypass these difficult moments and why keeping connected and aligned with your inner child is absolutely vital. Thank you Hien for sharing your story and giving me your time!If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Todays short clip focuses on state shifting to have the most optimum level possible, and why doing so can dramatically alter the event. Enjoy!
Perfect decisions only exist in hindsight, and ultimately the science of decision making is putting you on a path, positive, negative or otherwise. Even if it doesn’t work out initially, it’s likely to lead you to the place you deserve or need to be, and when we look back one day, all the comped and seemingly insignificant intricacies and synchronicities add up. Hear above! Enjoy!
Dinh Kim Loan is one of Vietnam’s most successful bodybuilders, having been a champion an astonishing thirteen times and competed in the industry for many years. Joining Building Blocks, Kim condenses bodybuilding into small enjoyable chunks, not being too focused on winning, ignoring the naysayers and how to cultivate a fun, enjoyable spirit in the heat of contest. If interested in how you have fun and work hard simultaneously, you can learn a lot from Kim! If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more at @buildingblockspodcastandblog
‘I have an idea, is this feasible?’. Just asking this question aloud and outlining the pros and cons is a perfect way of getting to a yes/no conclusion. I share two recent travel examples I’ve had with this that sounded crazy initially, but ultimately we’re perfectly feasible and immensely rewarding. They involve the Maldives and ….. Manchester. Tomorrow’s episode dissects the latter. Hope you enjoy!
“Try your best.” It’s simple but it’s profound and practical, like all great suggestions and ideas. Sometimes my best isn’t much, sometimes it’s enormous. Whatever the case, “my best” is all I can give. I dissect a few of my findings on this topic in this short daily clip.
Need. I need this. I need that. I need I need I need. Do you really need it? What do I need? Find out in today’s sequel to ‘I am richer than I think’
I left Vietnam after four years in search of something different and a grand adventure, subconsciously believing that “something else was out there.” I knew I’d get some insight and clarity, for good or for bad. Here it is…..”I’m richer than I think.” And we all are. It was a mind fuck to acknowledge but I dissect throughout this episode. I hope you enjoy!
Peyton Hoang is a software engineer and full time travel enthusiast, who joins the show to discuss her full time remote career, thirst for life in all its facets, and how she made big decisions from a young age in pressurized environments, such as dental school, moving from her native Vietnam to USA, and more.In this episode you will discover the following:⁃How pressure from an early age was a privilege in decision making and the courage taking the leap ⁃Taking full autonomy over oneself and establishing non negotiable principles to make decisions ⁃Working hard, fulfilling a thirst for life and how to balance a career and travel life ⁃Turning down dental school and transitioning into software engineering ⁃Establishing a digital nomad lifestyle and ensuring its audited efficiently ⁃Her definition of “success” on her own terms and the building blocks required to reach that. Instagram links: Peyton: https://www.instagram.com/peyton_hoang?igsh=NzBmMjdhZWRiYQ==Building Blocks: https://www.instagram.com/peyton_hoang?igsh=NzBmMjdhZWRiYQ==LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/conor-k-093327215?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app
ComebaCK after three incredible years, is being changed into a new podcast and direction. So it’s over, but not completely! New podcast soon!
What do we announce? What don’t we talk about? In the longest episode to date, we discuss almost everything and give a few announcements along the way. Since the episode, there’s been a lot of changes in Conor’s personal life, and he dissects with Holland and Jeremy here. Enjoy!
Tommy is a travel enthusiast and teacher from Sydney Australia who saved up as much as possible to fulfill his dream of traveling the world. He’s been to 55 nations and every continent bar Antarctica. Tommy has a huge desire for exploration and adventure and it shines through as we recorded our episode in Tak, rural Thailand. If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more at @thecomebackwithck and @tommysontour on Instagram.
Hang Phung spends her time between Saigon and Hanoi as a Tv host, news anchor/reporter and talent manager, primarily within sports media, and so I turn the tables around and interview her on her career so far in entertainment, media, education and more. If you enjoyed the conversation, you can find out more about Hang at @hagphugg on Instagram.
Michelle Nguyen is a Vietnamese/Australian fighter who has been boxing and active in sport for several years, including after her pregnancies. She joins the podcast to discuss this journey, the power of women in sport, where she would like to develop her boxing, and more. Thank you, Michelle!
Jordan Harkin returns to ComebaCK to discuss his upcoming project; himself and his friend Ben climbing Kilimanjaro in memory of his late father. Jordan previously appeared on ComebaCK to discuss his father’s passing and how he overcame it by doing various abroad trips, teaching and volunteering, and making the most of his life. We discuss life hacks, navigating life abroad, his experiences, aims for 2023/24, and more. https://open.spotify.com/episode/3KkH5KfYedwDSnBmAf33uj? si=tazww6fBSH-LtrzlK5_Jvw. https://www.justgiving.com/team/africanadventure?utm_source=facebook&utm_medium=team&utm_content=africanadventure&utm_campaign=pfp-share&utm_term=32a71411321949f8a4f7843892e50077&fbclid=IwAR1gGfc_0Mv69YakkpzWXBVOrNq1zo6R4spCgkkkURqiimGOogkCynyFHcU&mibextid=Zxz2cZ
Luyen Hoang is a Muay Thai fighter from Vietnam whose competed twice both domestically and overseas and joins ComebaCK to discuss her journey so far. These include being a female fighter, learning a craft and sticking to it, inspiring the community around you, making worthy priorities and sacrifice, and channeling energy into something positive! Good luck with your future endeavors, Luyen and thank you for joining the show!
Simone Elliott, an art workshop founder and self development and gratitude enthusiast joins the podcast to interview me in a twist, where we discuss a variety of topics including mental health, lessons from figures such as Joe Dispenza and Eckhart Tolle, and random questions such as songs on loop in our heads! Great to chat, Simone!
We’re back…..and I’m catching up with my friend Phil, discussing everything….why are we here? What’s it all about? How to deal with people? How to better understand ourselves? It’s all in. Thank you, Phil for your time! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Saigon Sterling is an American expat and content creator whose work revolves around safeguarding children In Vietnam through his YouTube channel. We discuss his work in great depth, what motivates him to keep going, and his content creation to date.
Mike Benjamin has a background in academia, education and radio, teaching English and Public Speaking/debate, having gone through the Dale Carnegie Public Speaking Instructor Program. He also taught me English 2010-11 when I was 13 years old, and therefore was a great privilege to catch up for an hour.
Topics
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Lessons from Carnegie and how they have helped him personally and professionally
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How to motivate and engage students as educators, and not being afraid to experiment
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His lessons from success and failure
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A deeper look into a wide ranging career in education, academia and radio
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What Mike is most proud of
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Linh Thuy Dang is a recurring guest who previously appeared to discuss expat life, lessons from various cultures, returning to her native Vietnam, professional aspirations and more. In this conversation, roles are reversed in a fascinating twist, and we dive right into dating and relationships. If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Conor and Nick dissect and discuss Chapter 9 of Napoleon Hill classic ‘Think And Grow Rich’.
Today’s episode is part of a new podcast pivot with ComebaCK, Coffees With Conor Number 2. In this episode, the topics include resisting labels, not disqualifying yourself before entering the arena, trying your best, and making marginal gains over time. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK reaches the landmark 500 episode. To commemorate, I (Conor) answer a set of questions about the podcast and what I’ve learned in over 500 episodes spanning almost two years.
Thao and Anya both join the podcast to discuss veganism in Vietnam, their personal experiences, journey and evolution over a period of time.
Topics ⁃ The reason and motivation behind their veganism and how to turn it into a committed lifestyle ⁃ The importance of gradually easing into veganism ⁃ Ethical questions ⁃ Alternative products to trial with a vegan diet and the importance of cooking ⁃ The importance of community, environment and support on their lifestyle choices ⁃ Debunking misconceptions such as “fake protein” or “inability to gain muscle” ⁃ Future community activities they have in order to raise awareness
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Diego Portales is a Mexican expat who has lived in Vietnam primarily for the last five years, mixing between engineering and teaching, and joins me to discuss the cultures between North America and Southeast Asia, the importance of challenging yourself and leaving your hometown, and having difficult conversations with family members and the elder generations.
Topics ⁃ Mexico vs Vietnam; economy, safety, culture, quality of life ⁃ The importance of innovation and adapting as an expat and consistently meeting new people ⁃ His teaching philosophy and why a firm but fair approach is key; and also how to prevent passive, disengaged students ⁃ His thought provoking and open minded conversations and how to approach difficult topics with an open and empathetic mindset
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Carlos Ponce is a Mexican expat who has recently made the first ever move outside of Mexico and decided to become an expat teacher in Saigon, Vietnam. We discuss a wide range of subjects, including opportunity vs escapism, quality of life compared in Mexico and Vietnam, the importance of finding balance and much more.
Topics ⁃ How being native in Mexico can cause paranoia due to prevalent crime and how to swiftly adapt ⁃ Making the move to Vietnam and getting out of your comfort zone ⁃ The importance of questioning WHY you’re doing something; is it opportunity or escapism? ⁃ Finding balance as an adult and an expat ⁃ The importance of figuring out what you like to do and immersing yourself in different worlds
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Nicole Wong is a model, yoga instructor teacher, life coach and expat in Vietnam; yet joined the podcast to discuss anything but her work, proving that you don’t have to be defined by your professions. Nicole is open, enthusiastic, warm and curious, and it sets the tone for a compelling hour long podcast.
Topics ⁃ Dealing with narcissists, spotting and understanding their patterns ⁃ Her self exploration and development journey and how she’s found a place of self acceptance ⁃ Her childhood experiences in California and how they have ultimately shaped her ⁃ How to work on the ego and recognize when enough is enough ⁃ How to attract and surround yourself with the right people ⁃ How to deal with the “flow” in social situations ⁃ What her and her closest friends would say about her
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Tran is a fitness model and influencer from Vietnam, who joins ComebaCK to discuss her personal development and fitness journey up until this point.
Topics ⁃ Her upbringing on a farm and how that’s cultivated her strong work ethic nowadays ⁃ Where her passion to inspire and influence comes from and how she channels her energy ⁃ Why she loves her journey and doesn’t get too attached to a goal ⁃ Her experiences with “Miss Fitness Vietnam” getting to the top 10, and her thoughts about the process ⁃ Building a strong body and mind, following up with action, and delivering to the best of her ability ⁃ Finding her purpose and motivation and sticking to that ⁃ How she wins against herself constantly and how that drives her ⁃ Staying consistent over time and developing the right habits
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Aurelija Jankauskiene is Wellbeing intuitive, energy practitioner, certified Emotion Code®️ & Body Code™️ practitioner, living in Vietnam and helping people internationally to release their emotional baggage and overcome limiting beliefs, in order to find peace, freedom and inspiration.
Topics ⁃ How to tune into your intuition as a skill; and how to master it ⁃ How to identify, understand and release emotional baggage stored in the subconscious mind and cure energy imbalances ⁃ The power of her work, how she’s seen her healing journey progress over time and how it can impact others ⁃ How muscle testing can be used to access our subconscious minds ⁃ How to deal with sceptics and acknowledging the energy of which skepticism comes from ⁃ What keeps Aurelija going with her work and why her passion is so fierce ⁃ The gift of sensitivity and being able to process our emotions ⁃ Cultivating our emotional hygiene
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Teacher’s Day is celebrated widely in Vietnam on 20th November each year, where students and parents alike gather to celebrate the effective contributions that teachers make all year around to inspire, motivate and encourage the next generation of students.
In this conversation, I break down;
The value of teaching
What it can teach you about yourself
How to improve your wit and social intelligence
How to be more succinct and specific in your communication
Lessons from my own teachers, especially related to discipline.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
World Cup 2022 Qatar is amongst us and the world watches to see if this global and historic tournament will be represented effectively in the Middle East, and which country will triumph and conquer the world. Amongst the favorites are Argentina, France and Brazil; whilst England, led by Gareth Southgate and Harry Kane, look to end 56 years of hurt and clinch the Jules Rimet trophy.
In this “Coffee Shop With Conor” episode, I break down England’s chances, and why they have great confidence to progress to the quarter finals, and perhaps beyond there, whilst previewing the World Cup as a whole.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thao Astrid is heavily involved in the blockchain and finance industry here in Saigon, Vietnam, and joins the podcast to discuss her work and where she sees the blockchain, crypto, decentralization and web chain spaces going in the near future, both in the West and in Vietnam.
Topics ⁃ Her thoughts on decentralization and why she believes it encourages fairness ⁃ Blockchain in the West vs Vietnam ⁃ Why it’s worth the risk and reward ⁃ How to spot scammers in the space ⁃ Blockchain for beginners and a general introduction ⁃ How to be careful when managing finances on the stock market
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thao is a personal trainer and health and fitness enthusiast from a marketing and social media background who has recently began her career in the fitness industry and joins me to discuss her philosophy, experiences and lessons so far.
Topics include ⁃ How social media skills and previous marketing experience has proved a worthwhile experience in her current journey; and how to create engaging and compelling content ⁃ How she used the pandemic to develop her health and personal development journey; both physically and mentally ⁃ The importance of constantly challenging yourself and putting yourself in unfamiliar environments ⁃ Blending knowledge and enthusiasm to the maximum effect
Conor’s Coffee Hour is a new segment based on conversations I have over coffee, which are often follow up conversations from ComebaCK or similarly themed. In this debut episode, I give a brief overview of three topics and explain what the concept will be moving forwards.
Topics
⁃ Jack White recently playing in Saigon, and why this can hopefully be the catalyst for more international acts come to Vietnam; and the beauty of the live music scene ⁃ Harry Maguire; how I hope that the World Cup is the catalyst for his comeback, both for Manchester United and England ⁃ Why you’re responsible for how you react to others, and especially how you react to them, choosing your words and actions carefully.
FotoPop Studio is Saigon’s first selfie studio, created and founded by both Jay and Debby, who join me to discuss their fun and unique ethos and project in the city.
Topics ⁃ Believe in your selfie ⁃ The gap in the market for this project in HCMC, Vietnam, and how it’s both niche and broad… ⁃ How they offer the most compelling and fun service possible ⁃ Their mission, values and purpose ⁃ The early stages of a startup and how it’s going with Fotopop ⁃ Their aims for the near future
Fotopop;
Fotopop.studio/
Instagram; Fotopop.studio
ComebaCK; @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Aleksandra is a Polish/English Vietnam expat having spent almost seven years here, involved heavily in a spiritual/divination practice and creativity enthusiast, based at a coffee shop and tattoo studio in the heart of the city. We discuss self development, creativity, community, adapting abroad and more.
Topics include ⁃ Her childhood and exposure to enormous creative and cultural inspiration in Poland, and how that’s influenced her passion for art ⁃ Living life as a Saigon expat; opportunity vs escapism, and finding an appropriate balance ⁃ Her divination practice, how to start and develop one, the themes of her exploration and how it’s helped build an effective community for her in the city ⁃ Her core values and what is extremely important to her; concepts such as service/providing value and creativity ⁃ Being fluid when related to our labels and having healthy detachments
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ricky Sahni is back on ComebaCK to catch up on the year of 2022. Ricky is a fellow podcast host, health and fitness enthusiast, personal trainer, and long term Saigon expat, who joins me to converse about recent events.
Topics ⁃ Running in sandals; a pursuit that he’s taken up in the last year and the benefits he’s experienced as a result ⁃ Why it’s important to be busy, structured and disciplined, especially living as an expat ⁃ His experiences returning home to India after a long time away and what he’s subsequently learned ⁃ His daily exercise and productivity routines and adapting to work In Vietnam 2022, post pandemic ⁃ Aims for 2023
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
This is a pod swap from Conor’s recent appearance on Kerry Newsome’s ‘What About Vietnam’, discussing a 2021 trip to one of Vietnam’s hidden gems, Con Dao Islands.
MikeDee (ProjectElon) is a recurring guest who returns back to ComebaCK, with a twist. What’s the twist?? Find out here….
Topics ⁃ What constitutes a good podcast guest ⁃ How to deal with rejection ⁃ Why “just doing something” is key ⁃ How your life really can change, if you allow yourself to take the leap
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Simone Elliot is a Saigon expat from Scotland and hosts her own workshops on exploring our emotions and feelings through art and painting. We discuss her journey of self development and exploration, the ethos behind her art workshops, and much more.
Topics ⁃ Cultivating an international outlook and mindset from growing up on the Scottish border; and how she later moved to Vietnam TWICE ⁃ The importance of gratitude and how that’s the basis for her work today ⁃ Connecting through a shared/common understanding and themes such as vulnerability ⁃ The importance of flexibility in our thinking and having an open mind; we all process and think about things differently, and this is demonstrated through art ⁃ How art and psychology can combine effectively to further self discovery and awareness
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Kelly is a young Vietnamese business lady, fitness enthusiast and content creator, hugely interested in self development and joins me to discuss a wide variety of topics.
Topics ⁃ Building financial, emotional and physical vitality and health over time ⁃ The importance and value of gratitude ⁃ Her core values and philosophy and her spiritual outlook; how to effectively raise your vibration ⁃ Going on a business and self development journey in her early 20’s; and what she hopes to achieve going forward ⁃ Her passion for people and putting them first always
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Matthew Egglestone is a business psychologist who helps people make better decisions (in business and in life), by sidestepping their unconscious biases.
Topics include
⁃ How to find the appropriate balance of influence in mixing competency and warmth ⁃ Where our bias and subconscious prejudices come from and how to be flexible with your thinking ⁃ How to cultivate self awareness, developing charisma, interacting with people and working on yourself ⁃ His own discovery from 18-25 at unpacking his own behavior ⁃ The importance of learning from failure, looking at the journey rather than the destination ⁃ Communicating effectively with different people ⁃ His future aims
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Annika Egglestone provides business owners with burnout solutions and helps them manage their workload, having varied experiences all over the world in business, and joins me to discuss the concept of burnout and how to avoid it.
Topics ⁃ Her international upbringing, subsequent experiences with burnout and how that proved as the catalyst for her work ⁃ Using pressure and passion in a healthy capacity ⁃ Why our bodies are adapted to stress over short bursts of time, and how to effectively manage/balance our time ⁃ What more businesses should know ⁃ How to know that you need a break, and what constitutes actual rest
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Anne Thai Vo is a pole dancer, teacher, businesswoman and owner/founder of Foenix Studio and ‘Little Anne’ here in Saigon, Vietnam. She joins ComebaCK to discuss how she cultivated her strong mindset, motivate and inspire those around her, dedicate herself to her pole practice, and what drives her at Foenix.
Topics ⁃ Cultivating her strength and toughness on a physical and mental level, and what “Anne Thai Vo” symbolizes ⁃ How she became active in her community and her practice and what she does to maintain self development ⁃ Being an inspiring teacher and leading from the front ⁃ How she continues to stay motivated, active and enthusiastic over a long period of time ⁃ What her businesses, values and ethos are and how she serves her customers
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Duong is a health and fitness enthusiast and regular Spartan racer based in Saigon, Vietnam. Duong has many stories to tell. She’s Vietnamese, she’s from a minority group in the centre of the country, she’s very passionate about sports, fitness, health, nutrition and racing, and she’s lived in several countries, including USA and the Netherlands.
We discuss a wide variety of tales in today’s episode, and I really enjoyed the opportunity to have a long form sit down conversation. Thank you, Duong!
Topics include
⁃ Managing your energy and time and having boundaries when connecting with friends and people alike ⁃ Her experiences with a difficult upbringing in a minority group and how that’s shaped her today ⁃ How she’s developed a certain level of mental and physical strength ⁃ Her passion for racing, why she keeps doing 42km mountain marathons, and the supportive and influential community she’s built as a result of her fitness journey
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Nathan Willis is a tennis coach and former ATP ranked professional player, joining the podcast to discuss his sporting and teaching career both at home in Australia and abroad through multiple expat experiences in Asia, and his coaching and business philosophy and pursuits.
Topics ⁃ The mindset of a tennis professional; both playing and coaching perspectives and the individual gladiatorial style ⁃ The true importance of competing against yourself consistently; and how this applies both to tennis and life ⁃ His coaching philosophy and how to cross communicate with clients from different backgrounds and visions ⁃ Moving abroad and adapting to the cultural challenges in developing a career within the sports and recreation sector ⁃ His future aims in Vietnam
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In a special twist to ComebaCK, Nick Cabrejos comes back to turn the tables. Find out what the twist is on the episode here.
Disclaimer: If you’re spiritually inclined, you may appreciate the episode.
Hara is a Vietnamese personal trainer and fitness enthusiast who has switched career fields in search of passion, and joins the ComebaCK podcast to discuss a wide variety of topics that are related to finding your calling, developing a physically and mentally beneficial lifestyle, and overcoming bouts of depression.
Topics include ⁃ Her personal mission and avenue into fitness and health ⁃ Overcoming her depression and how she was able to do so ⁃ Switching her marketing and SEO roles into her own desired career ⁃ Working out what her heart really wants based on deep inner reflections ⁃ Figuring out core values through childhood introspections
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Nate Wells is an online business coach, serial entrepreneur and networking marketing professional, hailing from South Yorkshire to motivate and inspire hundreds of people worldwide on their business. Nate joins the podcast to discuss his core values, evolution, journey to date, and how he operates his business life.
Topics ⁃ How his humble beginnings in South Yorkshire had him expanding off into the world as a serial entrepreneur ⁃ What he’s learned from his successes and failures ⁃ How he’s developed his online business and helped thousands of people ⁃ Overcoming imposter syndrome ⁃ How to make your mobile phone your business
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Disclaimer: “Prawn” is deliberately renamed to remove the emotional intensity and impact of the topic discussed.
Conor and Nick discuss “Prawnography”, it’s impact and influence on people from an astonishingly young age, and how the industry attempts to manipulate and seduce the consumer.
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thu is a teacher and the founder of an education program to benefit disadvantaged children here in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, drawing from her own experiences in education and learning English from her rural Vietnamese background all the way to the big city, and joins ComebaCK to discuss her journey, aims and thoughts on her program and the education system here in Vietnam.
Topics
⁃ Her own journey into education and how she became involved in the sector ⁃ How to make the process of language learning an extremely fun procedure, especially in 2022 ⁃ Providing disadvantaged children with first hand experience with native speakers ⁃ Her mission, values and principles and where the project will go
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Han Han is the owner of ‘Master Meals Vietnam’, and joins the podcast to discuss her entrepreneurship, fitness, nutrition and self development journey at a young age.
Topics include ⁃ Getting into the business world without prior knowledge or experience and the lessons she’s gained en route ⁃ Managing personality and teams within the business and industry ⁃ Effectively gauging a work/life balance ⁃ The beauty of “buy and sell” and providing value ⁃ The importance of clear, direct, concise communication ⁃ Her future aims for personal evolution and self development
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Iny Balance joins me to discuss her extensive background and journey through entrepreneurship and self love and how both paths are interlinked, in a multi storied and valuable hour long conversation. Thank you, Iny!
Topics include
⁃ Our innate desire for creativity and why it can be so profound and influential ⁃ Having fun with your problems ⁃ The wheel of self love and how that’s benefited her life ⁃ How lessons from jewelry have moved her forward in life and through perspective ⁃ Persistence, environment, vision; align all three and you’re onto a winning formula ⁃ How important it is to share and manage your energy effectively ⁃ Her rituals of feeling herself and what she stands for
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Myke Nguyen is a Professional Basketball Coach, Skills Trainer and businessman having returned to his native country of Vietnam in 1994, and spends his time here looking to develop community and education through business and basketball; Myke joins ComebaCK to recount the variety of roles he’s been involved within and to share his story and lessons.
Topics include; ⁃ Myke’s background in the States and coming back to Vietnam ⁃ Navigating racism and instability and the importance of positive role models ⁃ His coaching philosophy; what makes a good coach, how you prosper, how to get the best out of individuals ⁃ His love for basketball and how it helps people prosper off the court in life ⁃ Why “community” is at the heart of his mission
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about Myke at;
http://www.vietnambasketballacademy.com
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Emily Paterson comes back to ComebaCK in a special twist…….
⁃ What makes a good guest? ⁃ What are green and red flags in podcast recording ⁃ How do you source and pitch a guest? ⁃ Three most influential figures in my life ⁃ My favorite question to ask ⁃ Where is ComebaCK going
Emily’s previous ComebaCK episode 👇👇👇👇
https://open.spotify.com/episode/3bgvuhZkMRjFmd4tYxDdBs?si=3T8aDwuHRhCrVg_Fuwpyww
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Weng Honn is my first ever Malaysian guest, an ex personal trainer and sports performance coach, who is now running YouTube and TikTok channels based on ECommerce.
Topics include ⁃ Building his content creation profile and making the pivot from the fitness industry during the pandemic ⁃ Why gossip is absolutely intolerable in his culture ⁃ How to run and effectively build your online business ⁃ Helping entrepreneurs gain more confidence within the E-commerce field
If you enjoyed, you can find Weng at;
https://www.facebook.com/wenghonn
https://www.tiktok.com/@coachwenghonn
https://www.youtube.com/wenghonn
Mia is a gym owner ‘KBF Kickboxing Studio’ and fitness and nutrition enthusiast who joins the podcast to discuss her evolution, business and fitness and nutrition journey.
Topics include ⁃ Making her clients and students feel comfortable and enjoy their training ⁃ Her key values for the business and how it’s been developed and maintained ⁃ Her nutritional journey and how to find reliable sources of information ⁃ Realizing your level and developing at your own rate ⁃ What success, contribution and impact means for her
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more at;
https://www.facebook.com/kbfkickboxingstudio
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Kacey joins the podcast to discuss her self development and journey of self acceptance, under the show’s ethos ‘The comeback beats the setback’. I’m this episode , we discuss defining self identity and building a strong connection with self values to develop self esteem and confidence.
Topics
- Attempting to adapt quickly with changes after having to excessively move …
- Dealing with abandonment issues and trying to learn about feminine traits from the environment when there is lack of guidance from mother, the only female in the family.
- Learning to embrace true self and self esteem while interacting with the society and practicing socializing. Friendship journey and a difficult personality.
- The journey of getting to know true self.
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Davoslingo is an educator and content creator who combines teaching English and especially IELTS with his content creation journey, primarily based on TikTok.
Topics include ⁃ How One Direction inspired him to learn and develop his English language skills ⁃ The importance of IELTS and how it’s structured for the students optimum learning practice ⁃ Why concept checking questions are so crucial for facilitators of learning ⁃ How to effectively develop and refine your own channel without losing desire or motivation ⁃ Separating personal identity from the content creator alter ego ⁃ Not being afraid to seeking inspiration from your heroes
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ylyana is a restaurant owner and dancer from Russia who has spent almost a decade in Vietnam and multiple other countries in a wide ranging journey from various countries to various fields; hospitality, Los Angeles, dancing and many other themes come up during the course of this conversation, including her lessons on restaurant management, core values, self development and more.
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Annie is a young Vietnamese doctor who joins ComebaCK to discuss her journey so far; building her confidence, learning multiple languages, skill stacking, getting into medicine, her religion and faith, and more.
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Sean Boyle is an expat, teacher and freelancer from Ireland whose been living in Vietnam predominantly since 2012 and joins ComebaCK to discuss leaving his beloved Ireland, spending a decade in the thriving big city of Saigon, navigating a range of careers, being published in the Irish Times, and more.
Topics
⁃ Overcoming imposter syndrome ⁃ Building a content creation/freelancer portfolio steadily ⁃ Enjoying the community aspect of living abroad ⁃ Ireland vs Vietnam and the special place they both hold
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Matt Barton is from Virtual Internships here in Saigon, Vietnam and has worked in various countries, joining the podcast to discuss his organization and how VI help solve problems for aspiring interns and help them get easier access to global internships.
⁃ The background and early development of the business and how it’s evolved ⁃ What Virtual Internships motto, vision and purpose is ⁃ The work they do in accelerating the careers of the interns applying for international jobs through their organization ⁃ How the online space is innovating and adapting and the future of Virtual Internships ⁃ Setting up business and operating In Vietnam and Asia versus Europe
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Website;
https://www.virtualinternships.com/university-partnerships
Carey Hughes Parry is a Saigon based British expat, who happens to have traveled to North Korea, on the same trip as my dad. Small world. We discuss Carey’s trip to North Korea and hear a first hand account of his experiences in such an extraordinary place, and brings a valuable, human perspective to a place which is often overlooked.
Topics include ⁃ Why he decided to go to North Korea, background leading up to the trip, and what it was really like ⁃ North Korean people; their decency and humanity ⁃ Treat your North Korean tour guides well! ⁃ What to expect from a trip to NK and why Carey would recommend a visit ⁃ Why Carey plans to go back and what he would do differently
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Rowan Young is a British musician and Saigon expat, joining ComebaCK to discuss a wide range of subjects including managing mental health and imposter syndrome, immersing yourself in sport and music, opportunity vs escapism, and finding a supportive community as an expat.
Topics include ⁃ Being innately gifted yet experiencing imposter syndrome and how they interlink and manifest ⁃ Getting over bouts of depression and anxiety and the benefits of abstinence in dealing with mental health issues ⁃ Being heavily immersed in sport and music and how that has a strong personal impact ⁃ Vietnam; opportunity vs escapism and meeting a supportive community
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Christopher Nguyen is a UX Designer, entrepreneur, content creator and product design leader who has come back to Vietnam multiple times on his journey so far, and joins the podcast to discuss design, content creation, outsourcing, learning from setbacks, self development and much more.
Topics include ⁃ Why Vietnam holds such a special place for Chris and why he has continued to come back ⁃ The importance of networking, outsourcing and interacting with like minded individuals, creators and entrepreneurs ⁃ Having the self awareness to tailor your strengths and weaknesses to your particular field or project ⁃ His key lessons amongst a lengthy career in various fields such as design and consultancy ⁃ Having the courage to try something new, experimenting and following an interest ⁃ Adding a healthy amount of pressure to situations in order to enhance performance
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Julia Phan joins me to discuss her yoga and spirituality journey in Vietnam, key lessons and drives in her work, practice and life.
Topics include ⁃ How her yoga journey took her from pain and bed bound to thriving and present ⁃ The tools and foundations that yoga give to discover more about yourself beyond your physical practice ⁃ Navigating the social comparisons and status games that are inevitable in 2022 ⁃ Genuinely seeking peace as your North Star and harnessing our intuition ⁃ The true value of genuine presence, inside and outside of yoga ⁃ The importance of neutrality and balance in our emotional range ⁃ Where and when to just let go
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thanh Duyen is a public speaker and MC who joins the podcast to discuss her journey to confident and effective public speaking, her background as a reporter and MC, her values of authenticity and enthusiasm, and much more.
Topics
⁃ How she became an effective public speaker and found her supportive tribe at Toastmasters in Saigon ⁃ Taking the opportunity that really appeals to her calling of motivating others to enhance their lives ⁃ How to script an appealing and engaging speech to captivate an audience with your own values ⁃ The importance of self acceptance ⁃ Scripting vs spontaneous speech; pros and cons ⁃ Her overall purpose and journey and the beneficial impact she can have with her speaking
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Wendy Anh Ngoc and Diego Espana are both health and fitness enthusiasts, personal trainers and founders of ‘Reborn Camp” here in Saigon, Vietnam, focused on team building and holistic wellness. They join me today to discuss their collective business and fitness journeys, work with both ‘Reborn Camp’ and ‘Fit And Lead Saigon’.
Topics include ⁃ Their core coaching philosophies and values, and how to effectively negotiate with clients and tailor their goals accordingly ⁃ Their purposes with both ‘Reborn Camp’ and ‘Fit And Lead Saigon’, building community, team spirit and holistic wellness ⁃ How to manage their energy whilst working together on building their business ⁃ The importance of separating your personal goal vs your clients goal ⁃ How they develop an effective business strategy and where they aim to go with their journey
More details;
https://www.facebook.com/reborncamps
https://instagram.com/reborncamp?igshid=NzNkNDdiOGI=
https://www.facebook.com/fitandleadsaigon/
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Valerie Paul is a teacher and GCSE specialist with a French/English background, currently working in Vietnam, and joins the podcast to discuss her journey and passion for education.
Topics include ⁃ Navigating the cultural differences of education in Vietnam compared to the UK ⁃ What sparked her educational interest and passion ⁃ Creating engaging and supportive classroom culture ⁃ Being at peace with yourself as a teacher and your students ⁃ Her lessons from motherhood and how she continues to be inspired ⁃ The importance of not saying “no” in the classroom ⁃ Her journey of coming and settling into Saigon life and her aims for the foreseeable future
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
LiTa-YogaFitness is a fitness and yoga instructor from Saigon, combining fitness, yoga and nutrition to teach and change peoples lives alongside her own, and joins ComebaCK to discuss her background and transition into yoga, her journey towards inner peace, core values, how she’s always innovating and improving, and more.
Topics include ⁃ A depressive episode aged 16, bottling up her emotions, and how that started her yoga journey; the catalyst for the comeback. ⁃ Her inner peace and spiritual quest up until this date and the core values that she abides by ⁃ Why “no love no gain” is a better antidote to the pain philosophy ⁃ How she’s constantly innovating and improving her career ⁃ Her excellent decision making process when faced with challenges ⁃ Her mission and ultimate purpose ⁃ Be yourself, love yourself, never give up.
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
XOAY is a dancer, performer, dance teacher, artist and owner/founder of XOAY Studio in Vietnam, and has moved to Saigon from her hometown, Hai Phong. We discuss her background, passions, motivations, sense of self, teaching philosophy, challenges faced, and more.
Topics include ⁃ Mixing work and pleasure and the blessings yet con’s of this pursuit ⁃ How dance is the essential medium to gauge and connect with likeminded people ⁃ Having interests outside of the dancing realm ⁃ The importance of a supportive and positive environment ⁃ How to measure if you are enough and the journey and challenges of self acceptance ⁃ Her overwhelming passion for her work and future aims within dance and teaching
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Al Morgan has more than 30 years international working experience in the fitness industry, of which he spent the last 15years in Vietnam. He is regarded as the person who set up the Personal Training industry in Vietnam.
Al has not only helped hundreds of people change their life with his fitness expertise and inspiration, but also, has educated and grown many generations of trainers in the country.
He pioneers the concept of mastering small and positive habits through physical activities. Fitness to him is not about physical appearance but how you perform, feel and live each day. He believes that “a strong body leads to a strong mind and healthy lifestyle, which makes it possible to live an incredible life”. He founded Upfit in the middle of 2019 to embody his philosophy on life, mindset and training. Al joins ComebaCK to discuss his journey.
Topics include ⁃ Getting into shape to avoid being last on the kickball team and his military background ⁃ Developing his health and fitness journey, branching out into the coaching space, and his core coaching philosophy ⁃ UPFIT; how it’s developed, how the trainers operate and work with clients, and what they’re willing to negotiate. ⁃ His philosophy of “train hard, live smart” and how it manifests ⁃ Biggest health, fitness and nutrition misconceptions and why “one size doesn’t fit everyone” ⁃ The importance of a positive, supportive and immersive environment ⁃ Investing in people, their energy and their enthusiasm; and why that’s at the heart of the company ⁃ The essential nature of “ a plan” ⁃ His aims for the near future
Thank you to Al for the insight shared and I look forward to seeing the progression!
UPfit;
Www.UPfit.com.vn
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thora Bui is a Vietnamese personal trainer and fitness instructor, who joins the podcast to discuss her personal growth journey, spiritual interests, upbringing, values, and more, in a deep and wide ranging conversation that transcends fitness. I look forward to the round two after the insight shared here; thank you, Thora!
Topics include ⁃ Growing up independent, not receiving education, and challenges through her upbringing ⁃ Having long feuds and recognizing the most powerful remedy of all….forgiveness ⁃ Having gratitude for the challenges faced along the journey ⁃ The importance of having a good heart, resonating with energy and connecting ⁃ Understanding the dynamics, boundaries and expectations of friendships and external opinions ⁃ Her spiritual journey and her quest for self understanding
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Christina is the founder of Black Eyes Compass - Operation & Events Consultancy in Saigon, Vietnam, and joins the podcast to discuss hospitality, entrepreneurship, work/life balance, the importance of asking for help and having mentors, entertainment and much more.
Topics include ⁃ Her burning ambition for work and her achievements and striving for excellence in her work ⁃ How she has developed her hospitality and events service career significantly with ‘Black Eyes Compass’ ⁃ What Black Eyes Compass is and what their mission, purpose and core values are ⁃ Her challenges, including professional pressure and family difficulties and turning setbacks into comebacks ⁃ Being able to adapt and thrive in multiple environments ⁃ The impact of her work
Her work; https://www.facebook.com/blackeyescompass
Ngoc Bao Vu is the founder and owner of Rock Ba Ba here in Saigon, Vietnam, a gothic punk wear and dark wear clothes and accessories shop, and joins me to discuss the evolution of her business and her personal brand in Vietnam.
Topics include ⁃ Merging her passions for graphic design, punk music and Japanese culture together ⁃ Adapting to the local Vietnamese market ⁃ Basing her work on her ultimate passion project, doing exactly what she loves, and not bowing to the market pressure or trends ⁃ Building a personal brand and how that’s benefited her in the scene within the community ⁃ The importance of trusting yourself in any business venture
Ngoc’s work;
https://www.facebook.com/baongoc.vu.18
https://www.facebook.com/shoprockbaba/
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Mia joins the podcast to discuss a wide range of topics including a Chinese/Vietnamese mixed upbringing, having an effective work/life balance, how to overcome challenges and have gratitude for that journey, and more.
Topics include ⁃ How to feel comfortable as your authentic self ⁃ Appreciating the struggles and having gratitude for the lessons ⁃ Cultivating discipline and motivation ⁃ Trying to live in the present rather than focusing on the future ⁃ Overcoming the fear of rejection ⁃ The thrill of getting out of significant debt and the resilience built as a result ⁃ Not getting overwhelmed with numerous life choices in our 20’s
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Conor and Nick dissect Chapter 6 of Napoleon Hill’s ‘Think And Grow Rich’, focusing on imagination, the workshop of the mind.
Topics include ⁃ Fertilizing the mind like an effective workshop ⁃ Envisaging the ideal self ⁃ The safety of the dream and the discomfort of pursuing the dream ⁃ Analysis paralysis ⁃ The importance of authenticity and having a specific date and plan ⁃ The relationship between emotional intelligence and financial education
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Nhu is a Vietnamese musician and business owner, heavily immersed in hospitality and joins me to discuss her work/life balance, range of career fields, lifestyle, and more.
Topics include ⁃ Managing multiple jobs and a healthy work/life balance ⁃ Vietnamese family values and the difficulties that they can provide ⁃ Climbing the hospitality ladder and becoming a leader ⁃ The concept of therapy in Vietnam ⁃ Continuing to develop and chasing the right goals and dreams
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Jenny Ho is a Pilates teacher from Vietnam, joining the ComebaCK podcast to discuss her fitness journey, health evolution, practice of Pilates, coaching philosophy, Vietnam and more.
Topics include ⁃ Moving all around Vietnam and Thailand and adapting to the changing environments ⁃ What is Pilates, the physical and mental benefits, and her coaching philosophy ⁃ Reworking and changing subconscious beliefs ⁃ Balancing an effective and healthy lifestyle ⁃ Bringing Pilates to Vietnam and what she hopes to achieve in the future
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ana from AnaWorkout and ‘Saigon Healthy Lifestyle’ is from Vietnam aiming to build and motivate a community of people committed to improving their mental and physical health. She joins the podcast to discuss her background, aims and more.
Topics include ⁃ The importance of mixing with an international community ⁃ Mixing her marketing career with a fitness journey and how this has served her well ⁃ The importance of community and accountability; how she can motivate her students ⁃ Cultivating discipline on a regular basis and making dedicated time for exercise ⁃ Ana’s leadership style and the values that she holds dearly ⁃ How she manages her business and personal life ⁃ Overcoming your excuses and your self limiting beliefs
If you enjoyed
Ana
https://www.facebook.com/anaworkoutvn/
Comeback; @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thuong Luu is a Czech Vietnamese co founder of ‘Edu Pops’, and has a background in various fields, joining the podcast to discuss a variety of themes such as friendships, self development, entrepreneurship, education, navigating life abroad and more.
Topics include
⁃ Finding friendships as adults and how complex it can be ⁃ Finding out how to establish your core values and connections ⁃ What makes a “friend” and how to define metrics and boundaries ⁃ Accepting failure and it’s inevitability ⁃ Overcoming subconscious limiting beliefs ⁃ The concepts of ego and intrinsic motivation ⁃ Benefits of hypnotherapy ⁃ Edupops , what it is, and how it provides a combination of education and entertainment
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Edupops;
Www.Edupops.com Instagram; edu.pops
Matthew McPhee is an events organizer, DJ, producer and businessman in the North of Vietnam, Hanoi and joins the podcast to discuss his business, Vietnam and more.
Topics include
⁃ Setting up in Hanoi, Vietnam having moved from Canada ⁃ Sorting out time management and challenges especially during the pandemic and lockdowns ⁃ The origins, purposes and evolution of ‘ARCH’ rooftop in Hanoi ⁃ Working with the local community and the importance of reputation ⁃ The impact that this journey can leave on people and why it’s worthwhile
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In this ‘Cold Ones With Conor’, Chelsea Gallagher returns, and Hope joins, the podcast to discuss their LGBTQ book club initiative within the city, and other LGBTQ friendly events that are taking place in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam.
Topics include ⁃ LGBTQ representation in literature, the ideas behind a book club/literature meet up, and the specific influences that have shaped them ⁃ Misconceptions in LGBTQ literature and how to explore it effectively ⁃ The LGBTQ scene in Saigon and the safe spaces provided for the community
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Conor and Nick dissect Chapter 5 of Napoleon Hill’s book, Think And Grow Rich, focusing on specialized knowledge.
Topics include ⁃ What different types of knowledge are useful and applicable to each situation ⁃ Lessons from empowering teachers ⁃ Can low IQ be used to your advantage in business? ⁃ How are you intelligent?
And myself and Nick answer your question submissions!
Next week is imagination!
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find the video version and channel here;
https://youtu.be/KjcT3IfNvnM
https://youtu.be/ZSSjPggMoXE
Juhong Lee is a CEO of COO Builder in Saigon, Vietnam, and joins ComebaCK to discuss his journey to date, taking responsibility during the pandemic, navigating business in Korea and Vietnam, and future aims.
Topics include
⁃ Leadership and management, putting people first ⁃ His background in Korea and becoming involved in business and marketing ⁃ Pandemic challenges ⁃ Adapting to the role of CEO and the range of responsibilities ⁃ Korea vs Vietnam differences in industry ⁃ Future aims
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Vinh Ho is a content creator, YouTuber and runs the website Focus Asia Pacific. ( https://youtube.com/c/FocusAsiaPacific)
Vinh is originally from the US, specialized in sourcing and manufacturing in Vietnam, and joins ComebaCK to discuss his work.
Topics include
⁃ Immersing himself back in Asia and Vietnam having grown up in the US ⁃ His background in sourcing and manufacturing and moving into the digital nomad space ⁃ Focus Asia Pacific; what it is, how it operates and how it’s developed ⁃ Core values and mission ⁃ Future aims
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about Vinh at www.focusasiapacific.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Kelsey Ngan-Ha is a digital marketer and content creator, having spent plenty of time abroad, traveling to 33 countries and living in Netherlands, Barcelona and Denmark, joining the ComebaCK podcast to discuss her expat lifestyle and her immersion in marketing.
Topics include ⁃ Moving abroad to the Netherlands, navigating friendships abroad, and the key lessons that she’s learned on her journey so far ⁃ The benefits of youth naivety and broadening your horizons abroad ⁃ The challenges of female solo travel and being away from family and friends ⁃ Maintaining a work/life balance ⁃ Her future plans, projects and aims
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ha is from ‘Rock Fan Club’ here in Saigon, Vietnam, based in Thao Dien, and aims to build and expand the Vietnamese rock community, brand, connect with Westerners, building live music events connected to the genre, expanding across Vietnam, and more.
Topics include
⁃ Effective marketing and production for events in Ho Chi Minh ⁃ Setting up various rock performances, such as a Linkin Park Chester Bennington tribute show (which I attended) ⁃ The origins of RFC and how the rock community has evolved here in South East Asia ⁃ Building and retaining effective customer service, friendly, positive relations and uniting people through music ⁃ Their future aims for developing Rock Fan Club
You can find out more about Rock Fan Club here;
https://www.facebook.com/rockfanclub.rfc/
Hanh Le is a business owner/entrepreneur here in HCMC, Vietnam, specifically the expat populated Thao Dien area; the owner of both Haga SmartTech and UJUICE Vietnam. She joins the podcast to discuss her journey from the countryside to Hoi An, to studying and building her business and brand in Ho Chi Minh as a young Vietnamese woman.
Topics include ⁃ Her influences, including the traditional Vietnamese ao dai ⁃ Her background in Hoi An, cultivating a disciplined and strong work ethic, and using it as a catalyst to move to the big city ⁃ Working in night school and engaging in side hustles to get through her years of education ⁃ Starting up in business, developing her skill set, and how she personalizes her brands ⁃ How she balances numerous brands, raising children and her time ⁃ The importance of habits, healthy eating and a strong structured daily routine
To find out more;
https://www.facebook.com/ujuicevn/
https://www.facebook.com/hagasmartech/
Conor and Nick dissect Chapter 4 of Napoleon Hill’s book, Think And Grow Rich, focusing on autosuggestion and getting through to the subconscious mind.
Topics include ⁃ Are we consciously choosing negative thoughts? ⁃ Can we ask ourselves better questions? ⁃ Is autosuggestion the avenue into infinite intelligence? ⁃ Keeping your mind like a garden, keeping it fertile and guarding it carefully ⁃ Be careful what you wish for and be mindful of who/what is making that wish ⁃ Channeling your intuition
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find the video version and channel here;
Pham Tra My is a recurring guest from meeting her at a wild session on the exotic island of Phu Quoc in the South of Vietnam, and recording a podcast the next day, extremely hungover and nursing a hair of the dog pint of Jasmine IPA.
She comes back for an in depth, fascinating and authentic conversation about young motherhood, raising a son at 23-32, her experiences as a single mother, tips and tricks, and more.
Topics include
⁃ Going through post natal depression and adapting to life as a mother, particularly as a single mom for large periods ⁃ Negotiating with a child rather than scolding, and allowing them to pursue their hobbies and pursuits ⁃ Balancing a work/life balance, career alongside parenthood ⁃ Giving your own set of non negotiable behaviors in a household ⁃ Making a list of priorities and sticking to them rigorously ⁃ The beauty of motherhood
Annie Chopra is an entrepreneur, Founder of ‘She The Queen’ magazine, author and marketing expert who joins the podcast to discuss self development, the importance of hard work, immense confidence, and more.
Topics include ⁃ Managing extreme self belief and confidence (which is an intrinsically cultivated skill), alongside high levels of anxiety ⁃ The importance of journaling and focusing on the big four questions ⁃ Lessons from moving around various countries at a young age and having to adapt and immerse ⁃ Childhood stories related to The Law Of Attraction ⁃ The benefits of dopamine dressing ⁃ The importance of persistence and burning desire ⁃ Every conversation that you meet, make sure you provide value ⁃ How she’s built her brand, books and businesses with her mission and values ⁃ Her future endeavors, importance of networking, and where she’s going next.
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about Annie here;
https://instagram.com/annie.chopra?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
And if you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Note: This episode is sponsored by UJUICE and Haga SmartTech, two local businesses in Thao Dien, Saigon which aim to deliver exemplary customer service, friendly care and professional products across two different sectors. The owner, Hanh, has built her brands from scratch in the big city of Vietnam after hailing from the Hoi An countryside. I strongly suggest you check out both brands for your healthy and technological needs here;
https://www.facebook.com/hagasmartech/
https://www.facebook.com/ujuicevn/
Ana Chopra is a personal trainer, health and fitness enthusiast and certified nutrition expert from a third culture background, and joins the podcast to discuss her varied international background, health and fitness journey, and lessons along the way.
Topics include ⁃ Sibling dynamics ⁃ Growing up in a constantly changing international environment (Dubai, India, Spain, Mexico, Laos), the privileges gained as a result, mixed with the challenges ⁃ Starting out in her health and fitness journey and her evolution over time ⁃ Body image issues that move across cultures ⁃ Having a complete balance with your fitness and nutrition and the importance of home cooking ⁃ Valuing consistency over the “quick fix” approach ⁃ Her website, ‘Nay To Yay’ and future aims on informing and benefiting people on their health
You can find out more about Ana at
https://instagram.com/naytoyay?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Www.naytoyay.com
Kasey Daye is my first ever ComebaCK guest, dating back to 2021, and comes back to catch up on leaving Vietnam, developing a career in teaching, dealing with challenges such as a BPD diagnosis, the evolution and learning journey over the last 18 months, and more.
Topics include
⁃ Coming to terms with borderline personality disorder and what that means ⁃ How teaching and guiding her students has helped her throughout difficult moments in the last 18 months ⁃ The turbulence of leaving Vietnam for Romania throughout the summer 21 Vietnam lockdown and settling in Bucharest ⁃ Navigating friendship and connections abroad ⁃ Finding the tools to become your own best friend ⁃ Our collective future aims
If you want to listen to our first conversation, listen below;
https://open.spotify.com/episode/0p4dk93KO4wpOv8TdUvc27?si=7CrQkoTETjWA-rBBIDpaag
Mads Singers is a people management consultant and outsourcing expert, with over 10 years experience in helping businesses become more successful.
Topics include ⁃ His motivation to jump into the worlds of entrepreneurship and management ⁃ The core values of basic management skills and how they can be developed ⁃ The power of building strong, empathetic, caring relationships with your team ⁃ Outsourcing, delegating and it’s impact on ultimate performance ⁃ How essential it is to communicate properly ⁃ Managing motion vs action and avoiding procrastination ⁃ The benefits of honesty, clarity and assertion ⁃ Building great resilience and preparation for the inevitable troughs that will crop up throughout life ⁃ Focus on your impact rather than accumulation of numbers
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Disclaimer: This episode contains strong language and descriptive details of domestic violence. Some of the contents of this episode viewers might find distressing.
Lucille, a French expat in Vietnam, joins the ComebaCK podcast to discuss her experiences and “nightmare” of domestic violence, including a large period of being physically and mentally abused, the four step cycle of a narcissist, her comeback journey, how she helped herself through a very insightful French book, and why she’s now grateful for the tiny things in life, now she has largely turned her life around.
If you found value in this conversation, please leave a rating/review, or follow @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Noah T is the owner of Overmorrow Brewing Company, a brewing company in Hanoi, lives as a Tokyo expat, and joins me to discuss F&B, business, brewery, challenges, dealing with people and much more. It’s wide ranging, succinct and insightful - thank you, Noah!
Topics include
⁃ Putting people at the heart of your business, both with staff and customers ⁃ Dealing with the inevitable challenges that will rise working in the F&B industry ⁃ Working remotely and with a team before and during the pandemic, and bouncing back from the issues that it caused ⁃ The core values of his business ⁃ Making the brewery’s products feel like an authentic Northern Vietnamese experience ⁃ Reflecting on one’s success and how to balance that reflection whilst moving forwards ⁃ The differences in the craft brewery scene between Japan, Vietnam and USA ⁃ The friendly nature of the Vietnamese F&B and craft beer scenes ⁃ Their commitment to being absolutely bilingual, and why foreigners doing business in Vietnam should absolutely aim to do so ⁃ Future aims
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In a solo episode based on my recent YouTube venture, I dive into my top five tips on settling as a Saigon expat and making the most out of your experience. I hit my three year anniversary on July 30 2022, and I’m here to share my journey and hopefully help current and aspiring expats alike.
These tips are
- Embrace change and novelty
- Communicate, communicate, communicate
- Get a hobby and seek opportunity
- Network far and wide
- Find an appropriate balance
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Mike Davison is a Youtuber, content creator and digital nomad, currently based in Saigon, Vietnam, helping people set up their online businesses from scratch. He joins the ComebaCK podcast to discuss an extraordinary story from music to teaching to remote work to network marketing, expat life, content creation and more.
Topics include ⁃ Starting out in the music industry, having fun post university, having an epiphany and moving to teach abroad ⁃ Moving abroad and why it broadens your horizons and gives you a different perspective to life - and there’s more to life than your town/city in Northern England ⁃ Becoming a qualified teacher, investing in yourself, and building his way up into the international school system ⁃ Epiphany number 2 and throwing himself into the unfamiliar world of digital marketing and online work ⁃ Building an online network marketing business in Thailand in 2019 ⁃ A period of depression during the pandemic back in the UK and how he bounced back ⁃ How the commission structure in network marketing works ⁃ Being driven by your passion and values ⁃ Moving his brand into a YouTube channel, monetizing and building his platform over time ⁃ His list of ambitions and goals for the rest of 2022
You can find out more about Mike here;
https://www.mikedavisonmarketing.com/
https://youtube.com/c/MikeDavisonOnline
https://www.facebook.com/mikedavisononlinefacebook
Wes Jackson is a recurring guest, from ComebaCK episode 103, and heavily involved within digital marketing and online work both in his native San Diego, USA and Saigon, Vietnam, including his HCMC Digital Marketing Meet-Ups, and events with Omega Digital.
He comes back to the podcast to discuss his year abroad, coming back to Saigon, his present and future projects, including his new podcast, ‘Surviving Humanity’, and much more.
Topics include
⁃ Adapting to a lockdown life of hermit style introversion and coming back to Ho Chi Minh recently to continue to kickstart events ⁃ The challenges of COVID and how he was able to jumpstart his marketing career throughout the difficult periods ⁃ Dealing with ADHD, how that’s manifested, and techniques/methods to manage it ⁃ Maintaining composure and confidence in the professional realm ⁃ His key lessons from his professional and personal life over his 20’s, and what happiness really is ⁃ Clarifying your hobbies, values and vision and putting them in alignment ⁃ His love for Vietnam and remaining balanced by experiencing the greenery and tranquility of places like Da Lat ⁃ His aims for the upcoming project ‘Surviving Humanity’ podcast
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Angela Usher MBE is a musician and teacher from Manchester, focusing on Irish traditional music, has been active for over 30 years, and has recently been awarded an MBE for her services and contribution in helping out disadvantaged children. She joins ComebaCK to discuss her career, highlights, teaching and much more.
Topics include
⁃ Beginning with Irish dancing and experimenting with multiple instruments from an early age ⁃ Her enthusiasm for teaching and how it’s developed over time ⁃ The concept of talent and how to get the best out of struggling students ⁃ Getting involved within the Irish music community, watching it develop over time and bringing in different generations ⁃ Getting “in the zone” in both gigging and teaching ⁃ Her recent MBE award, her thoughts and reaction
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Conor and Nick discuss Chapter 3 of Napoleon Hill’s book ‘Think And Grow Rich’, focusing on the concept of faith. This adds to our previous two chapter discussions on imagination and desire.
Topics include
⁃ Faith being the antidote to fear and reframing your definition of failure ⁃ Faith taking you through the seemingly immovable force of resistance , with examples of Ghandi and Lincoln ⁃ Being extremely specific with your desires ⁃ Be careful what you wish for ⁃ How to cultivate faith, building step by step, baking “small cookies”, (reference to Chapter 2 and David Goggins), and Atomic Habits.
If you enjoyed
Chapter 1: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5iclCopv29metmsefoIsaf?si=3UKuY483Rs6E1QW6kxpz3A
Chapter 2: https://open.spotify.com/episode/1j8TrEugPiw1PuvYNTDqj9?si=eFjX3y0QQCukfx4Se1DWJQ
Neelam Parab is the founder of ‘The Healing Zone’ here in Vietnam, a spiritual concept store that aims to create a place where all the spiritual products under one roof. She joins the podcast to discuss setting up business abroad, moving from Mumbai to Vietnam, balancing her time and her work, and more.
Topics include
⁃ How The Healing Zone manages science and spirituality and aims to raise your vibration ⁃ How Neelam manages a full time tech job alongside her business career ⁃ Her motivations and drives for building ‘The Healing Zone’ and what it was like setting up in Vietnam ⁃ Dealing with Vietnamese and foreign attitudes towards remedial healing treatments ⁃ The challenges of the pandemic and making the comeback ⁃ Providing organic products and working alongside popular brands to provide the best service possible and provide an array of options
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about The Healing Zone here;
https://www.facebook.com/thehealingzonevietnam/
https://shopee.vn/thehealingzonevietnam?fs=e&s=cl
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ashley Le is a Vietnamese athlete, student, marketer, previously involved in plenty of sports including semi professional MMA, boxing, basketball and more, and has a background in the South of Vietnam, Saigon.
Topics include
⁃ Growing up 100% Saigonese ⁃ Becoming a business and marketing major and her enthusiasm for these industries ⁃ The mental and physical challenges of the MMA world, especially as a Vietnamese woman, and the “cat and mouse” game that takes place ⁃ Her enthusiasm for the sport of basketball and her journey of following Saigon Heat since secondary school ⁃ The social and physical benefits that sport gives her and how it’s developed ⁃ The concept of intelligence, how it can be transferred to the sporting world and how mathematics can be applied in the arena ⁃ Why you can have multiple passions in different areas especially at a young age ⁃ The importance of novelty and mixing up your enjoyment pursuits
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Quieny Nghi is a dancer and artist from Vietnam having previously spent time in Newcastle, England for study, and joins the podcast today to discuss her experiences abroad, avenues into dance and art, overcoming self doubt, and much more.
⁃ Experiences adapting to the UK environment and learning to be more independent ⁃ The value of strong, positive teachers and mentors and the key lessons she’s learned ⁃ Her dance journey and learning how to explore and channel her emotions ⁃ Taking small steps on a journey, developing as a person and growing ⁃ Direct, honest, straightforward communication and how crucial it is ⁃ Discipline, creativity and time management across art, dance and teaching at education centers for children ⁃ Being patient and enjoying the process
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Andrius Grizitskas is the owner and general manager of ‘Cheers Distillery’ here in Saigon, Vietnam, and joins me to discuss his industry, setting up business in Vietnam, management and more.
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Conor and Nick dissect Chapter 2 of Napoleon Hill’s ‘Think And Grow Rich’ focusing on the concept of desire.
Topics include ⁃ Taking direct action and why “The Secret” falls short in certain areas ⁃ Using the example from the chapter of Barnes’ burning, persistent desire to become Edison’s associate ⁃ Examples related to this from authors such as Tony Robbins, Robin Sharma and Rhonda Byrne ⁃ The crucial ingredient of service in success ⁃ The importance of reflecting on our past achievements, building our own cookie jars and reinforcing our positive beliefs ⁃ Our aims for the future in this series of the podcast
EPISODE 1;
https://open.spotify.com/episode/5iclCopv29metmsefoIsaf?si=xGGi-SqiSEOcLHaCBURCKw
Christina Melante is from Ukraine, has ten years experience as an expat both in China and Vietnam, and joins me today to dive into recent events with the Ukraine situation, events for support in Ho Chi Minh, and her expat experiences, tips and techniques for living and moving abroad.
Topics include ⁃ The Ukraine experience and recent events in Saigon, organized by the French consulate, looking to raise awareness and how to support ⁃ Her optimism and hope for the future of her home country ⁃ Coming to China and Vietnam; the benefits of a naive youth, navigating friendships abroad, and adapting to extremely unfamiliar environments ⁃ Top tips for expat living and especially here in Saigon
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Wayne Pickett “Wanye West” is a Saigon based Aussie sportsman, musical comedian and teacher, and joins me to discuss a wide range of topics within the vibrant expat community of Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. Id highly recommend this podcast episode to anybody interested in coming to Vietnam and immersing themselves within the expat life.
Topics include ⁃ His background in Melbourne and how he found himself in Saigon, Vietnam ⁃ His passion for sport and how that’s helped him settle in Saigon and mingling with various expats ⁃ His musical comedy journey of “Wanye West”, and the multitude of parody songs he’s penned about expat life ⁃ Things to bear in mind as an expat; the do’s and dont’s ⁃ If you come to Saigon, get a hobby or an opportunity. It’s crucial. ⁃ Aims for the future and expanding his knowledge and skill set within the teaching profession
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Dave Burgess is a professional development speaker, ex award winning teacher of US History in San Diego, and author of ‘Teach Like a Pirate’, looking at encouraging teachers to be more unorthodox mavericks, with entertaining, engaging and creative teaching styles, using techniques and philosophies such as presence, question forming and state shifting, advocated by self help authors such as Tony Robbins and Eckhart Tolle.
Topics include
⁃ Creating an effective classroom culture by causing active engagement from all students, and discipline by disarming without battle ⁃ Creative alchemy and taking his magic, MC and speaking skills into his classroom and management ⁃ The acronym of ‘PIRATE!’ and how it fits into a teaching profile ⁃ Breaking down your teaching passions into professional, personal and content ⁃ Using unorthodox analogies to teach, eg “Could you sell tickets to your class?” “If it wasn’t mandatory, would students still attend?”, and relating teaching a class to preparing a BBQ ⁃ Adapting to students needs and guiding them to be intrinsically motivated ⁃ The most important aspects of teaching and advice for new and aspiring teachers ⁃ Why teachers should dare to be GREAT.
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Guillaume Rondan is heavily involved in entrepreneurship, content creation and digital marketing, working at Movetoasia, and joins me to discuss real estate, business in Vietnam, and online/offline work.
Topics include
⁃ His background in France and settling down in Asia after a year of remote working here ⁃ How business in Vietnam is different to the Western model, what to expect as a start up, and do’s/donts ⁃ The importance of failure and learning from failure, especially in the early stages of a business ⁃ Building a relevant and valuable skill stack ⁃ The origins of Move To Asia, their mission and core values ⁃ Setting up a business here in Vietnam, investing in real estate here, and how in both cases, you have to be adaptable ⁃ Time management, delegation and prioritizations, both in the company and a work/life balance ⁃ What drives Guillaume in his work today ⁃ Leaving a legacy, both in Vietnam, and broadly in Asia
You can find out more about Guillaume and his work at;
MovetoAsia.com
https://youtube.com/c/GuillaumeRondanMoveToAsia
Jack Sylvester is the video editor and producer for chart topping No.1 UK and Europe podcast show, ‘Diary Of A CEO With Steven Bartlett’, which has over 150 episodes with guests such as Jordan Peterson, Matt Hancock, Lewis Howes, Liam Payne, Terry Crews and many more. We discuss his journey with The Diary Of A CEO, it’s rapid expansion, behind the scenes of one of the world’s biggest podcasts, the future of podcasting, and more.
Topics include
⁃ His origin story of being involved with Diary Of A CEO ⁃ His thoughts on the impact of DOAC and how it’s changing conversations and having meaningful impact ⁃ Being behind the scenes of world class, life changing conversations with figures such as Mo Gawdat, Rochelle Humes and various others ⁃ All of the stages that go into editing, producing and releasing a chart topping podcast; how to source guests, and what are the roles of the team involved ⁃ Marginal gains and small incremental steps in building an enormous project ⁃ Time management when working on such a high level project and personal life balance ⁃ Working directly alongside Steven Bartlett with his ever growing personal brand ⁃ The future of podcasting, and upcoming projects with the Diary Of A CEO
Mike Davidson is a content creator and YouTuber, his YouTube channels, primarily ProjectElon have over 1 million subscribers and 65M views. He joins the podcast to discuss his journey from a small village in Northern England, to traveling Asia, building a YouTube empire, his plans for a personal brand expansion, and more. I highly recommend to all content creators, anybody interested in self development, and anybody interested in building their brand or business.
Topics include ⁃ Stacking shelves in Tesco at 20 and having a 3AM epiphany ⁃ Traveling South East Asia, immersing himself with successful people, and how he took the leap into his content creation journey ⁃ Choosing to niche on the self development topic and the impact on his personal life ⁃ Removing his self limiting beliefs and the power of networking in helping with this aspect ⁃ Building a brand of huge numbers on YouTube and the steps taken to achieve that success ⁃ Advice for aspiring content creators and those looking to make a career on YouTube ⁃ Working with a team and their role in the ProjectElon brand ⁃ Future aims in expanding his personal brand; Mike Dee. Thoroughly enjoyed this one. If you want to know more about Mike and ProjectElon, you can find the links below;
https://youtube.com/c/ProjectElon
Magdalena Rutkowska is a CrossFit athlete, coach and fitness enthusiast currently living in Saigon Vietnam and coaching at ‘CrossFit Thao Dien’, and joins me to discuss her fitness journey, evolution into CrossFit, passions, Polish background and more.
Topics include ⁃ Growing up in Poland, being immersed in sports from a young age ⁃ Horse riding and her journey through that sport growing up in her early years ⁃ Moving to Vietnam from Poland and trusting the process ⁃ Moving through challenges such as depression and diet issues ⁃ Having CrossFit as the catalyst for her comeback ⁃ The benefits of the tribe and community that CrossFit Thao Dien has brought her ⁃ Taking the leap of faith in moving abroad and the pros and cons ⁃ How the pandemic “saved her life” ⁃ Her aims for the future
To train with Magda here in Saigon, Vietnam , look at;
https://www.facebook.com/crossfitthaodien
https://instagram.com/crossfitthaodien
And @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Annie Vo is a Viet Kieu, lawyer by trade, and heavily involved in ‘Premier Dental’ in the expat neighborhood of Thao Dien in Saigon, and joins me to discuss her law and entrepreneurial journey, the legacy of continuing an established family business, crossing cultures between Vietnam and USA, and more.
Topics include
⁃ A mix of American and Vietnamese culture ⁃ Studying law, progressing through the legal system, and how the industry operates ⁃ The importance of attention to detail ⁃ Developing and building upon a family business in a Vietnamese expat community ⁃ The core values and mission of the business ⁃ Their plans for the near future
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
This ‘Cold Ones With Conor’ episode of ComebaCK was featured at Union Jacks in Thao Dien, where we shared our thoughts on Vietnam expat life, the community music scene, navigating life here in comparison with the UK/US, and features two recurring ‘Cold Ones’ and ComebaCK guests; Holland Chadwick and Jeremy along from Coastal Connection.
Topics include ⁃ The curious cases of the Vietnamese law enforcement ⁃ The band’s summer gigging and the subsequent trials and tribulations ⁃ What advice we would give to new expats based on our collective 12 years experience living in Saigon, Vietnam ⁃ Our thoughts on Union Jacks food and beer choices on this particular day.
👇 ORDER AT 👇
Www.Unionjacks.co
https://www.facebook.com/UnionJackshcmc/
• This episode of ComebaCK is sponsored by The Shamrock Hoi An and Da Nang, a set of Irish bars expanding to Hanoi and Saigon, brought to you by a Vietnamese woman with a strong passion for Irish culture. It’s currently the only Irish branch in Vietnam that serves Guinness on draught. • Their Hoi An branch is currently seeking an Irish manager! • Find out more via;
https://www.facebook.com/ShamrockIrishPubHoiAn
https://www.facebook.com/theshamrockirishpubdanang/
• https://theshamrock.com.vn
Quynh Anh Nghiem is the current president of (HCM) Hot Cool Milk Toastmasters, a public speaker and leader based in Ho Chi Minh Vietnam, dealing with both Vietnamese locals and expats alike.
Topics include
⁃ How to be both a motivating figure and keep a team on board ⁃ Her journey from guest speaker to leader at Toastmasters HCM ⁃ Facilitating learning and development through an empathetic style of leadership ⁃ The need for introversion and authenticity in her practice ⁃ How you can improve confidence, communication and connection through the Toastmasters community ⁃ Non negotiable behaviors and core values within the community, of respect care and fun ⁃ The core strategies of a speech worth sharing
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
• This episode of ComebaCK is sponsored by The Shamrock Hoi An and Da Nang, a set of Irish bars expanding to Hanoi and Saigon, brought to you by a Vietnamese woman with a strong passion for Irish culture. It’s currently the only Irish branch in Vietnam that serves Guinness on draught. • Their Hoi An branch is currently seeking an Irish manager! • Find out more via;
https://www.facebook.com/ShamrockIrishPubHoiAn
https://www.facebook.com/theshamrockirishpubdanang/
• https://theshamrock.com.vn
Nicole Doan is from ‘Finest Fresh Pasta’ in Vietnam and Australia, and joins me to discuss her background in business, dealing with teams, her career development in F&B, and more.
Topics include
⁃ Hard work is good but smart work is better ⁃ Gaining a skill stack and lessons from moving into business at 22 ⁃ Key traits required for her industry, including definitive planning and vision ⁃ Embracing the competition ⁃ Navigating through real estate investments ⁃ Staying motivated and focused
If you want to find out more about Nicole and her business, please visit https://finestfresh.vn and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In the rare case of a solo episode, I talk about a set of topics that have arisen in my personal life, triggers, episodes, mistakes, the topics I’ve been looking into, the lessons I’ve learned and done that I haven’t enough. I can imagine this will be a recurring theme as I look to take responsibility, build towards my own “comeback” and enjoy the process.
Topics include ⁃ My errors and triggers and why extreme ownership/personal responsibility is the only solution ⁃ The concept of forgiveness, as shared upon this podcast beforehand ⁃ Having depression and anxiety as your “identity” and whether it’s possible to detach ⁃ Effective emotional regulation ⁃ The subconscious influences stored over time and the importance of managing our feelings ⁃ Why magic and madness are often intertwined
If you enjoyed this episode, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Disclaimer: The topic discussed during this podcast, some listeners might find upsetting.
Chris Lee is a businessman and organizer of “Saigon’s Pool League”, and has been living in Asia for 16 years, and joins the podcast to discuss the loss of his daughter Tara, aged 5, to childhood cancer, in 2002.
Topics include ⁃ Discovering Tara’s condition and how he processed the news ⁃ Raising awareness for childhood cancer and discussing the impact that it had on the whole family ⁃ The aftermath of Tara’s passing and her legacy today.
Thank you enormously to Chris for coming on and sharing his story.
If you have been affected by childhood cancer, more resources for support or assistance are available here;
https://www.cancer.net/navigating-cancer-care/children/childhood-cancer-resources
Garret Nelson is a businessman (Kebabs And Wraps, Dulce Saigon), and teacher based in Saigon who joins me to discuss his combination of fields, staying grounded and developing business in Vietnam.
Topics include
⁃ Developing the dessert business in Ho Chi Minh and positively networking with colleagues in F&B ⁃ Separating work/life balance and watching a hobby develop into a business ⁃ Time management and combining both a teaching career with running a business ⁃ Quality and customer service being at the heart of their mission
Garret’s work
https://www.facebook.com/dulcedesaigon/
https://www.facebook.com/kebabsandwraps/
And if you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Disclaimer: If you listen to this episode, please consider donating to Ukraine. Links on how to do so are below.
It’s the 400th episode. I’m delighted to welcome Anastasia Sokyrka, a passionate photographer, who joins me to discuss her work in detail, and also her first hand account of having to flee her native Ukraine in March 2022.
Anastasia visited home for her annual visit in February. However after 5 days of being back in Ukraine, she woke up to an enormous sound and ultimately had to flee back to Vietnam with her mother. She recounts the story in powerful and authentic fashion throughout this conversation.
Topics include ⁃ Her photography, the mix of influences, her range of work, how she operates, biggest misconceptions and favorite aspects of photography ⁃ How photography and passion can be a valuable tool for networking ⁃ Being wrapped in the flow state and losing track of time ⁃ Becoming an independent and strong woman through her expat experiences in Vietnam
UKRAINE
⁃ Rushing to meet family members and loved ones throughout her five days at home ⁃ The experience of the explosion outside her home at 5AM and having to shelter in the basement for several days afterwards ⁃ The experience of having to evacuate the country via Poland ⁃ Her reflections on her experiences with the war now ⁃ Why we should donate to Ukraine
You can donate to Ukraine via here;
https://u24.gov.ua/
Supportukrainenow.org/donate
Mischa Smith is the sales director at Pasteur Street Brewing Company, a very popular company in the heart of Saigon, and joins me to discuss the highs and lows of being heavily immersed in F&B, his enthusiasm through his work, navigating setbacks, living abroad in Vietnam, and more.
Topics include ⁃ Moving from Canada, Korea and Vietnam and navigating himself throughout the F&B scene ⁃ Going from an unhappy place to one of contentment within the industry ⁃ Why he has the passion and enthusiasm for his role ⁃ The origins of ‘One Sip Beer Reviews’ ⁃ The reason we fall in love with Saigon ⁃ The future and evolution of Pasteur Street Brewing
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Tuovi Wallen is a recurring guest from Episode 72, and returns to discuss education in both Finland and Vietnam, where she works at the Finnish International School.
Topics include ⁃ Why the Finnish education model is so important and so popular ⁃ The concept of play based learning and how to tailor learning to students capabilities ⁃ The benefits of a conducive classroom culture and how to effectively cultivate it ⁃ The challenges of an international school role and how to navigate setbacks ⁃ How an “unorthodox” approach to education can be effective to specific students and their progress ⁃ Work/play, both balancing and mixing ⁃ How we’re all students forever
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
On today’s ‘Cold Ones With Conor’ episode, I’m joined by two figures from the Saigon DJ community scene, Natalie Robson and Mike Juska. They join me to discuss party life in the city, the fun, excitement and energy being the practice of DJ’ing, and their collective journey. Saigon music scene is always evolving and improving and it was great to speak to two figures from the scene! Thank you Mike and Natalie!
Topics include
⁃ Getting a playlist sorted and reading the room ⁃ Getting behind the science of the practice ⁃ Developing gig to gig to gig ⁃ Being involved in an eclectic scene within the city of Saigon ⁃ The experiences between high points and “clanger” moments ⁃ Developing parallels between teaching and DJ’ing ⁃ Advice to aspiring DJs ⁃ Future aims
If you enjoyed, please visit www.HCWA.vn, a charity that both Mike and Natalie have been involved with.
If you enjoyed, follow @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Jon Keeling is from ‘The First Street Belief’, a musician here in Saigon, Vietnam, having lived in several places internationally, and joins me to discuss his newest release about a conversation between his father and grandfather regarding a deep and sensitive topic, which sets the tone for his latest song release.
Topics include ⁃ Discussing feelings of loss, advice, bullying and sadness ⁃ Navigating tough times and emotions through musical exploration ⁃ Channeling the concept of empathy ⁃ Attending a funeral online during the COVID period ⁃ His musical journey
Thank you for sharing such a profound topic, Jon!
If you enjoyed this conversation you can find out more about Jon ;
Nini Fritz is a bucketlister, iConnector and pancake enthusiast, adventuring between Bali and Bondi Beach, Australia. In a fascinating discussion, we talk about dreams, travel, lifestyle, creating bucket lists, and more.
Topics include ⁃ Moving away from her native Germany and experiencing the world ⁃ Living as an expat in the serenity of Bali and how life is living there ⁃ The importance of travel and exploring different countries ⁃ The ideas behind her professional life - IConnect (creating social interaction) and bucket list, and how to use these to work abroad ⁃ HER OWN bucket list, and how she’s ticking off as time passes ⁃ Helping people connect and communicate together and taking action on their own bucket list ⁃ Inspiring this to live life to the FULLEST and how she does too
Her work
https://instagram.com/nini_quarantini?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
https://iconnect-strongerthanwifi.com/
https://instagram.com/iconnect_strongerthanwifi?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In the recent episode, Nick Cabrejos, recurring guest, joins me again to discuss returning to Saigon, dealing with home bound traumas, and navigating the next stage of the comeback.
Topics include ⁃ Facing your past head on ⁃ Not forcing your expectations on others ⁃ The concept of “360 feedback” and the harsh reality of this ⁃ The identity of forming new beliefs ⁃ Making a contract about yourself ⁃ Finding a supportive friendship circle ⁃ Being overrun by ego and coming away from that
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In this episode, I’m joined by Christian Geissendoerfer from TAPPWater Vietnam.
Founded in Barcelona, Spain in 2015, TAPP Water’s mission is to create simple and affordable solutions for clean tap water in a sustainable way. The products are designed and developed in Europe, manufactured in China/Taiwan and independently tested in each market we are active in. In less than 3 years TAPP Water became the leader in faucets filters in Europe and is now expanding across the world.
MyTAPP is available as it’s own app and provides status and notifications for replacement of refills, cost savings, CO2 footprint, water savings and bottled water reduction data, information about tap water and finding the closest refill station near you.
You can find out more about TAPPWater and Christian at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/cgeissendoerfer/
Www.tappwater.Asia
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Wonder (Quan) is a public speaker at Saigon Toastmasters, and fascinated by the deep authentic conversations of human nature. Wonder joins me to discuss deep conversations, success, challenges, dealing with labels, and more.
Topics include ⁃ Moving from a small town in Vietnam to the vibrancy of Ho Chi Minh/Saigon ⁃ Embracing failure and feedback in equal measure ⁃ Developing confidence through public speaking, mixing with international communities, and building general knowledge ⁃ Speaking your authentic truth, representing your authentic self, and getting to the root of the deepest questions that we search for in life ⁃ What represents a successful life ⁃ Trying to avoid comparisons, especially at a young age ⁃ What represents a virtuous life ⁃ Taking personal responsibility
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Katina Dell’Acqua-Lubich is an American/German expat in Vietnam, who joins me to discuss expat life and her journey in South East Asia, balancing partying with work, core values and more.
Topics include
⁃ Going down the startup business route in Vietnam rather than teaching and how her career has developed overseas ⁃ Setting clear boundaries and communicating effectively ⁃ Her core values and non negotiable behaviors ⁃ Adapting to mixing with different cultures and showing empathy ⁃ Her main growth experiences pre and post Vietnam ⁃ Keeping her circle smaller and working out her favorite aspects of life abroad ⁃ Branching out onto different communities within Saigon and not being stuck in a certain demographic
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Maria Fernanda is my first ever Ecuadorian guest, living as a remote worker since 2018 for a nonprofit organization, who joins me to discuss expat life abroad especially in Saigon, adapting to the unique lifestyle, and her experiences as a remote worker pre, during and post pandemic.
Topics include ⁃ Acclimatizing to Saigon, whether or not we can call it “home”, and the importance of finding a hobby here (note: opportunity vs escapism from other podcasts) ⁃ Being immersed in the remote working environment since 2018, on either side of the pandemic, and channeling introversion in this respect ⁃ Developing yourself out of your work and challenging yourself in the new city ⁃ Navigating the complex nature of making friends in an expat community ⁃ The concept of “home”
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Michael Correia is a Canadian expat, who has taught and spent an extended period of time in Asia, throughout Japan, Thailand and Vietnam. He joins me today to discuss dealing with depression, navigating challenges in different cultures, self development, and more.
Topics included ⁃ Getting out of your head with introversion and making connections ⁃ Navigating a mix of different jobs ⁃ Reading the room and adapting to your environment ⁃ Dealing with issues such as depression and working out what is important to you ⁃ The importance of family and respect for the roles they play in our development ⁃ Acknowledging “this too shall pass” ⁃ How moving countries doesn’t get rid of your baggage ⁃ Getting the most out of your experience, whether you’re at home and abroad
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Holland Chadwick is the guitarist in Coastal Connection, who have appeared on several ‘Cold Ones’ podcasts before, (links below), and joins me to discuss music and expat life, with a wide range of topics on offer, such as homeschooling, band life, talent vs application, and intrinsic motivations.
Topics include ⁃ Homeschooling, how to manage your time, and the importance of hobbies ⁃ Whether talent is innate and how it can be developed - fixed vs growth mindset ⁃ The importance of cultivating mental strength both in sports and music ⁃ Humility, especially in both solo music projects and as a band ⁃ The importance of developing projects and hobbies abroad, beyond just “living in Vietnam”.
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Holly Younglove is a sound healer and teacher from USA, currently strongly immersed in her practice in Vietnam, focused on energy healing through sound, and joins me to discuss her work in depth.
Topics include ⁃ What sound healing really is, what it entails and how it has benefited her and her clients ⁃ Expat life in Asia and being immersed in an international community ⁃ The biggest challenges Holly has overcome ⁃ The importance of setting firm and clear boundaries to manage our energy ⁃ The idea behind “soulful Saturdays” ⁃ Her practices of intention and manifestation ⁃ Creating your own reality ⁃ The difference between venting and giving feedback ⁃ Bringing spirituality into your daily life and finding a balance
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Yvonne is an acupuncturist and immersed in energy code healing, currently based in Saigon, Vietnam after traveling for several years. In a fascinating discussion, we talk about alternative healing remedies, energy healing, manifestation techniques, misconceptions and more.
Topics include
⁃ Exploring alternative methods, such as those implemented by Dr Joe Dispenza ⁃ There’s more to healing than antibiotics and medication, and navigating the relationships between science and spirituality ⁃ The different healing remedies per country, such as West vs East ⁃ What “energy code healing” is, and the benefits it can pose ⁃ The benefits of acupuncture alongside energy code healing ⁃ Dealing with sceptical attitudes and not looking to change minds ⁃ Being immersed in a positive energy vibration to avoid undesired energy ⁃ Learning to trust herself and be at peace ⁃ Giving and receiving ⁃ Getting to the root cause of the trauma in rapid time ⁃ Being a tour guide to your health and happiness
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ricardo is the founder of ‘Genderfunk’, the largest alt drag queer collective in Vietnam, and teaches consent/gender/sexuality workshops at schools here in Saigon. Ricardo joins me to discuss their background, journey and the evolution of Genderfunk. I highly recommend both listening to this episode, and attending an event. Thank you, Ricardo!
Topics include ⁃ Being brought up in a rough part of Birmingham, England and exploring sexuality, gender and identity ⁃ Why “coming out” is for the individual and nowhere else ⁃ Navigating difficult emotions, coming to self acceptance, and the ability to express oneself ⁃ Building up the queer scene in South East Asia and the evolution of Genderfunk ⁃ The importance of diversity and creating safe spaces for LGBTQ ⁃ Teaching gender/consent/sexuality workshops in schools ⁃ Their pride in seeing drag performers develop over time in Saigon ⁃ Creative influences and favorite aspects of performance ⁃ Future aims
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about Ricardo and Genderfunk at
https://instagram.com/esta_ricardo
https://instagram.com/genderfunk
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Jack Nguyen is a Vietnamese comedian and open mic night host, and one of my youngest ever guests, at 19 years of age, and joins me to discuss comedy, performing, anxiety, growth and more.
Topics include
⁃ Channeling anxiety through performance ⁃ Growing up in Vietnam yet experiencing many Western influences (including Disney Channel) ⁃ Dealing with constructive criticism and our own egos ⁃ Exploring difficulties and challenges through comedy routines ⁃ Making the transition from a performing comedian to a host ⁃ Some of the influences that have mentored him along the way ⁃ The importance of diversity in comedy
You can find out more about Jack at @melodrameme on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Emily Paterson is marketing focused here in Saigon, Vietnam, having spent a lot of time in Manchester, UK working in several different industries. Emily joins me to discuss her journey of expat experiences and career moves, alongside her mental health experiences, and the beauty of going through life without a plan.
Topics include ⁃ Moving from the small town of Bedford into the big city of Manchester for university ⁃ Navigating a variety of different jobs and why it’s okay not to have a plan in life ⁃ Coming to Vietnam as an expat and not going down the teaching route, instead going through marketing ⁃ The parallels that Emily, myself and many others can identify from moving city for university and moving country for an expat experience ⁃ The importance of acknowledging our own achievements ⁃ Not having a plan, and why that’s okay ⁃ Learning to be patient and going with the flow
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Paige Jordan is a Scottish expat in Vietnam, teacher and literature student, with a wide variety of teaching and travel experiences, and joins me to delve deeper into these subjects, alongside themes such as relationships and volunteering.
Topics include
⁃ Developing an open mindset and having empathy for others based off university experiences ⁃ The importance of boundaries, self love and being complete in yourself during relationships ⁃ The mindset of a teacher and volunteer, adapting and catering to student needs, and simplifying the process ⁃ Making both learning and teaching enjoyable and adapting from student to teacher ⁃ Her literature influences and what that taught her about contemporary life ⁃ Exploring a new country and the main benefits of life in Vietnam
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In a podcast focused on inquiry based learning, I welcome Ciara Fitzpatrick from ISHCMC here in Saigon, and Juan Carlos from European International School and UPP Global. Both work at TeShares in Vietnam. We discuss an alternative method to education, bringing teachers and students learning experiences together, and where this can evolve.
Topics include ⁃ How to communicate with students, motivate them to find their own solutions, triggering curiosity and adapting to their interests ⁃ What inquiry based learning is and how it differs from the traditional education model ⁃ What ‘Teashares’ is and how it works ⁃ How to supervise an inquiry based learning lesson ⁃ The list of top 10 skills that employers will be looking for by 2025 and how Inquiry Based Learning helps this process ⁃ The concept of being an eternal student ⁃ Creating an immersive and inclusive classroom culture ⁃ Making sure that students have basic fundamental skills but also harnessing creativity ⁃ Practicing humility as a teacher in this environment
You can find out more about these projects at;
Www.teashares.com
Www.uppglobal.co.uk
Instagram: @inquirylogic Twitter: @inquirylogic
Facebook: https://m.facebook.com/InquiryTeashares/
Brennan Lagman is the founder of ‘Energy Conscious Meditation’, who empowers purpose driven creators and entrepreneurs to energetically align with their soul mission whilst leaving an impact. Brennan joins me to discuss their work, impact, energy healing, meditation and more.
Topics include ⁃ The pronouns “they/them”, and their meaning ⁃ Combining masculine and feminine energies to full effect ⁃ Overcoming challenges ⁃ Finding your true identity, and developing a sense of home and live within ourselves ⁃ The foundations of ‘Energy Conscious Meditation’ and it’s impact ⁃ Why energy is everything ⁃ Staying present and getting out of our headspace sometimes ⁃ Dealing with inevitable sceptics ⁃ Aims for the future
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Maria Aave is my first ever Estonian guest, who joins me to discuss her journey of spirituality, including mind, body and soul connection, and her expat experiences in both Mexico and Vietnam.
Topics include ⁃ Cultivating genuine self love and care ⁃ Finding a supportive tribe and community when dealing with challenges ⁃ Balancing both masculine and feminine energies ⁃ The importance of having an open mindset ⁃ Developing her spiritual identity in Vietnam and overcoming her challenges ⁃ Female empowerment and awakening sisterhood ⁃ How she stays empowered and focused ⁃ How she works towards her ultimate goals
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about Maria here;
https://instagram.com/mariave.jpg?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Chelsea Gallagher is a Canadian expat and freelance writer here in Saigon, Vietnam, host of a book club here looking to better represent queer literature, and joins me to both dissect the book ‘The War Of Art: Break Through Barriers And Overcome Your Inner Resistance’, and also a personal insight into her expat experiences. A unique episode which I thoroughly enjoyed - thank you, Chelsea!
Topics included
⁃ Overcoming resistance and procrastination ⁃ Her experiences as a freelance writer and how it’s manifested ⁃ Cultivating discipline and effective time management ⁃ Balancing intrinsic motivation against external validation ⁃ Learning to value constructive criticism and where/when to take the correct advice ⁃ Finding your identity and voice ⁃ “Walking on rainbows” ⁃ The concept of “resistance to change” ⁃ Experiences living in Saigon, Vietnam versus the Western World, especially during the pandemic
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In our latest book edition and for our new series, myself and Nick review the Napoleon Hill classic, ‘Think And Grow Rich’, initially written in the 1930’s, yet still widely heralded today. In this episode, we review Chapter 1.
Topics ⁃ The power of thought, related to faith, with examples of the quest to be Thomas Edison’s business partner ⁃ Updated modern day examples of the pattern, including Stephen Spielberg, Arnold Schwarzenegger, Jurgen Klopp and Elon Musk ⁃ Being attached to a belief or a purpose ⁃ The concept of manifestation from a belief and sceptical perspectives ⁃ The importance of asking for help ⁃ Dipping the toe into Law Of Attraction
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Nayantara Goyal is an Indian teacher having spent four years as an expat in Saigon, Vietnam. She joins me to discuss a wide range of topics from living abroad, mental health challenges, self discovery, cultural immersion and more.
Topics include
⁃ The importance of communication, boundaries and community ⁃ Navigating your way around living abroad as an expat, finding your tribe, embracing Vietnam and more ⁃ Dealing with mental health issues, eating disorders, and making the comeback ⁃ The societal pressures that can take place in India and Vietnam, related to family dynamics and from a professional/career sense ⁃ Saigon as an expat ⁃ Having empathy and flexibility in social situations ⁃ The importance of difficult conversations
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Jessica Likens is an actress and acting teacher from Philadelphia, currently living in Saigon after stints in LA and Hong Kong. She joins me to discuss her acting journey so far, and provides a wide range of insights around the acting business that go in great detail! Thank you, Jessica!
Topics include
⁃ Genuine and authentic energy on set, especially when mixing with co-stars ⁃ The mental challenges associated with acting endeavors ⁃ Nitty gritty acting details that are often overlooked ⁃ Working with people in the industry, the challenges posed and trying to avoid comparison ⁃ “That guy who was in that thing” and why those roles are ACTUALLY the top 5% ⁃ Transferring acting skills into the teaching capacity ⁃ The key traits required to succeed in the acting industry ⁃ Her future aims
You can find out more about Jessica here; https://m.imdb.com/name/nm4180638/
https://instagram.com/iamjessicalikens?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Uziel Pavia is initially from Mexico, has lived in several countries, and is a digital marketing manager, joining the podcast to discuss expat life, marketing and SEO life.
Topics include
⁃ Background in Mexico ⁃ Providing value ⁃ The psychology of marketing ⁃ Search optimization for SEO’s ⁃ Focusing on contribution in different fields and sectors ⁃ The blending of financial health alongside physical and mental health ⁃ His expat experiences, including fleeing Ukraine during the recent conflict in February
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about Uziel at;
https://www.linkedin.com/in/uzielpavia/
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Disclaimer: This was held on a Saigon rainy rooftop Saigon at 5pm in D1 (heart of the city) - a true Saigonese podcast. Apologies for the background noise.
Sean Thommen is the Head Brewer at ‘East West Craft Beer Brewing Company’, in Saigon, Vietnam , and joins me to discuss setting up abroad, expanding the craft beer scene in South East Asia, their mission and philosophy, and more.
Topics include;
⁃ Sean’s background in Portland, Oregon, “The Craft Beer Capital Of The World” ⁃ Advancing the craft beer scene in South East Asia ⁃ Setting up a Western style business abroad, but also blending alongside an authentic Vietnamese experience ⁃ Their marketing, customer relations, design and import strategies ⁃ Adapting to setbacks and challenges, such as unpredictability and the pandemic ⁃ Their approach to innovation ⁃ Future aims for branching out in Vietnam
You can find out more about their work at;
Www.EastWestbrewing.vn
https://www.facebook.com/eastwestbrewery/
https://instagram.com/eastwestbrewery?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y=
Amelie Maas is currently living on the island of Phu Quoc in Vietnam, a pole dance instructor, and heavily involved in both nutrition and movement, from her studies and professional experiences, which she shares with ComebaCK.
Topics include
⁃ The environmental factors in Vietnam that brought her here since 2014 ⁃ Her interest in nutrition and how this developed over time ⁃ Why enjoyment, intrinsic fulfillment, and breaking down the goal into tiny steps are so crucial in a movement/fitness practice ⁃ The biggest misconceptions surrounding movement practices and nutrition ⁃ The myth of “talent”
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
• SPONSORS
Paperbacks Saigon
Www.paperbacks.vn
INSTAGRAM;
@paperbacks.Saigon
Kerry Newsome is the host of ‘What About Vietnam’ podcast, exploring the stories of travelers, locals and expats in the country heavily involved within tourism in Vietnam, and has been regularly visiting Vietnam from her native Australia since 2007. Kerry joins the podcast to discuss her work, journey in Vietnam, the development of ‘What About Vietnam’, and what might happen with Vietnam tourism in 2022 and beyond.
Topics include
⁃ Her experiences since 2007 and how Vietnam has changed ⁃ Exploring the hidden gems of Vietnam ⁃ The challenges of working within tourism during the CoVID period and how to adapt ⁃ The evolution of ‘What About Vietnam’ and how it helped her stay connected to Vietnam ⁃ The future of tourism in Vietnam and where it develops from here
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about Kerry and her podcast at;
https://www.whataboutvietnam.com
https://www.facebook.com/whataboutvietnam/
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ly Nguyen is a digital creator and designer, hugely influenced by travel and freedom , and joins the podcast to discuss her travel experiences, design work, self care practices, and more.
Topics include;
⁃ Moving from the “old lady” of Hanoi to the vibrancy of Saigon and adjusting to the key differences ⁃ Her international travel experiences and engaging an open and curious mind ⁃ Understanding the historical significance of places visited ⁃ Moving into the design industry and her main lessons from this career decision ⁃ Understanding human behavior and psychology through design ⁃ The importance of brainstorming/mind mapping to develop creativity and clarity ⁃ What “freedom” represents, financially, personally and professionally ⁃ Breaking yearly goals into small, actionable steps ⁃ The values of health, creativity, curiosity and freedom
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Denise Truong is from ‘Trash Hero’ in Vietnam, and the founder of ‘TYDE Consulting’ here in Ho Chi Minh. We discuss her appetite to make change, her mission of self discovery following a panic attack, her key lessons, why impact and contribution is at the focus of her projects, and more.
Topics include
⁃ Setting firm, clear boundaries and putting yourself first ⁃ Self reflection and working in close quarters with a psychotherapist ⁃ Her work with Tyde Consulting, building an authentic workplace culture where employees feel inspired and belonged ⁃ Having the awareness to “check your blind spots” with the assistance of a coach or mentor ⁃ Recognizing that it’s the individuals choice to change and being comfortable with that ⁃ Her work with “Trash Hero” Vietnam and her monthly cleanup activities in Ho Chi Minh ⁃ Showing an example to the community and making small steps to change
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about Denise at
https://linktr.ee/denisetruong
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Lester O’Stephens is a principal at an international school in Saigon, having worked in education for 30 years in his native New Zealand, Singapore and now Vietnam. On this podcast episode, we dive further into education in the international sector, Asian models vs New Zealand, the most important aspects of the children’s well-being, and more.
Topics include
⁃ New Zealand education model vs Vietnam ⁃ Looking at the psychology of education, including intrinsic and extrinsic motivations for learning ⁃ Treating staff, students and parents as people first, and enhancing their wellbeing ⁃ The importance of setting firm, clear boundaries ⁃ The concept of ‘restorative practices’ in education ⁃ Developing the culture and the ethos of an international school ⁃ Pushing the boundaries, being innovative, and developing students learning
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Alan Dolan is a Breathwork practitioner, working under the ‘Breathguru’ programme, conducting retreats in Lanzarote, has had his work endorsed by the likes of Russell Brand and Naomi Harris, and joins the podcast to discuss his background, career in breathwork and its transformational impact, and more.
Topics include;
⁃ His background in yoga and transitioning into breathwork ⁃ His difficult first 40 years of depression and how breathwork helped to deconstruct the negative energy of depression ⁃ The healing journey from mind identification to identifying with ‘God’ (whatever you choose that to be) ⁃ Being the observer of your thoughts ⁃ The retreats in Lanzarote and what takes place during the sessions ⁃ Making breathwork accessible and giving it more mainstream recognition ⁃ The power when endorsed by celebrity figures such as Russell Brand and Naomi Harris ⁃ Ultimate aims in putting his work out there and improving the lives of others
For more information, visit Alan’s website; https://www.breathguru.com/
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ami is the founder of ‘Go Green Vietnam’, aiming to help others to improve their health and lifestyle through organic, healthy products. She discusses a wide range of topics with me, from environmental issues to spirituality.
Topics included;
⁃ Her environmental influences moving from the North of Vietnam to Ho Chi Minh City, and connecting with nature ⁃ The personal responsibility in taking control of our environment ⁃ Getting our therapeutic fixes from nature rather than chemicals ⁃ How not to fall victim to marketing media ⁃ The development of ‘Go Green Vietnam’ over time, what their mission is and what they stand for ⁃ Moving into the Law Of Attraction and her relationship with that concept ⁃ The power of forgiveness
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Morry Tafakory is a passionate health and sports professional, using integrative manual therapy to help clients with their holistic health - their body, mind and soul all as one.
Topics include;
⁃ The importance of communication with clients, and delving into lifestyle factors that can be causing illness or stress ⁃ The benefits of breathwork and the misconceptions that we have about the way we are breathing ⁃ Why sleep should be the key priority, followed by nutrition ⁃ The importance of mind over matter ⁃ Why we don’t need as much food as we think ⁃ Going back to old generational rituals of chanting and conscious breathing ⁃ A holistic approach to health ⁃ The importance of gratitude, especially after living in Vietnam
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
• SPONSORS *
Instagram - paperbacks.Saigon Www.paperbacks.vn
Annie Pham is a Vietkieu, (Aussie/Vietnamese), who joins me to discuss her journey in filmmaking, travel, yoga, self discovery, her journey back to Vietnam (Saigon is her current base), and more.
⁃ Working with people and the importance of managing yourself and group dynamics ⁃ The insight into studying film and what really goes into the production of a movie ⁃ The inspirational role of various Asian women breaking down barriers in the industry ⁃ Experimenting with different genres and the correct message to put across ⁃ Her experiences of “the comeback” after discovering the teachings of a Vietnamese monk ⁃ Returning to her home country of Vietnam and the journey of discovery ⁃ The weird paradox of being immersed in different cultures growing up ⁃ Her future creative plans and pursuits
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Khanh-Linh Le is the founder of ‘The Cocoa Project’ in Saigon’s District 3, making chocolate for the people in Vietnam, prioritizing using local ingredients to support the local farmers, making chocolate-for enjoyment and beyond. In today’s conversation we discuss her business background, following her dreams, moving from the beer industry into the chocolate industry in Vietnam, and more.
Topics covered
⁃ Transitioning from the beer industry to the chocolate industry ⁃ Their mission of sustainability and working with local farmers in Vietnam ⁃ Why they make ‘chocolate for the people’ - their manifesto, beliefs and mission. ⁃ How they developed their chocolate business here in Vietnam, especially during the pandemic ⁃ Standing out more in the market due to the nature of their business and the distinction of their flavor ⁃ What the Cocoa Project looks to achieve moving forward
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about The Cocoa Project;
https://www.facebook.com/thecocoaproject.saigon/
Www.thecocoaproject.vn
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Following on from episode 350 is the sequel with Abhijit Das from Narrativ Design, in a role reversal interview format on branding, putting the ComebaCK brand under the microscope to dissect.
Topics
⁃ What ComebaCK represents for Conor (the host) vs the brand/podcast ⁃ What made ComebaCK make sense as a brand? ⁃ Intrinsic motivations for the podcast ⁃ Development over the next 2-5 years ⁃ What ComebaCK represents as a format, sharing the journey from setback to success ⁃ The therapeutic nature of both conducting and sharing these long form conversations ⁃ The pandemic putting comebacks into perspective on a wider scale ⁃ The top 3-4 tips for starting a similar platform.
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about Abhijit and his company at https://www.narrativ.design/people and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Geneva Marcelino is the creative director of ‘RHouse Vietnam’, a Restaurant and Rescue Foster House in Saigon, has spent over ten years in advertising, and joins me today to discuss creativity, challenges, advertising, her work and more.
Topics include
⁃ The creative, psychological and empathetic processes behind advertising ⁃ How to find your “North Star”, and the concept of knowing your destination but being flexible about your journey ⁃ How your value system can change over time due to circumstances ⁃ The difficulties of the pandemic, looking after numerous animals and it’s ongoing impact ⁃ The story of the ‘Stand For 16’ Movement, protecting animal welfare moving forwards after a COVID related tragedy ⁃ The future aims for the RHouse Project
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about RHouse at
https://welcometorhouse.wixsite.com/rescuesvietnam
https://www.facebook.com/WelcomeToRHouse/
You can find out more about our episode sponsors, Paperbacks Saigon at;
Instagram: @paperbacks.saigon Website: www.paperbacks.vn
They stock English books and graphic novels across different genres, and also accept custom orders. Unique for all your reading experiences 💪
Nick and I return for our book reviews, taking a closer look at Jesse Itzler’s diary, ‘Living With A Seal: 31 Days Living With The Toughest Man On the Planet’, recounting events of living with David Goggins.
Topics covered ⁃ Is Goggins an epitome of zen, or present focus? ⁃ Goggins crushing the ‘inner bitch’ ⁃ Goggins’ philosophy applied to business and family life ⁃ Stoicism and the enlightenment pursuit ⁃ The overall 360 picture of living with a Goggins style figure ⁃ How to cultivate mindset and discipline ⁃ Goggins as an inspiration
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Elizabeth Homfray is the founder of ‘Laws For Paws Vietnam’, a charity that rescues, rehabilitates and rehomes dogs that have been abused, injured or abandoned, and has been living in Saigon, Vietnam for 15 years. She joins me today to talk about the charity, their mission, overall evolution and development, challenges during lockdown, and their future aims.
Topics include
⁃ Providing education of the dogs’ backgrounds and how to give them better lives ⁃ The application process you have to go through to adopt a dog ⁃ The attitudes towards pet care in Saigon and how it has developed ⁃ How the charity began and has subsequently evolved over time, with help from volunteers and creatives ⁃ The challenges during the lockdown period of 2021 and how they pulled through ⁃ The highlights of their journey to date ⁃ What they look to achieve moving forward
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about their work at www.lawsforpawsvietnam.com and lawsforpaws Vietnam on Facebook and Instagram, and ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Linh Thuy Dang is a Hanoi-an in Saigon, joining me to discuss her mixture of cultural experiences, including studying and working in Japan, America and the North and South of Vietnam. We discuss being immersed in so many environments, cultivating self awareness, balancing the expat lifestyle and all of its paradoxes, and how spending time abroad developed her confidence and personality.
⁃ Going abroad alone and having to go out and cultivate friendships and connections ⁃ Building her independence and confidence through her experiences ⁃ How America was such a significant chapter for her development ⁃ The differences between working and studying in both Japan and Vietnam ⁃ How to balance travel, career and changing culture ⁃ “Inventing yourself” all over again and resisting labels ⁃ The journey of returning back to Vietnam, but being immersed in Saigon to compare to Hanoi
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Selene Alcock is a content writer, digital and video producer, and product maker and designer, who has both made several documentary films, interviewed CEOS for C Magazine in Vietnam, and writes for the WHAM agency in London, having lived on/off in Vietnam since 2005, and traveled to over 30 countries. She joins me to discuss her freelancing career so far, traveling and trusting her gut.
Topics covered
⁃ Her passion for cinema and traveling the world for research ⁃ The spontaneity approach to life ⁃ Her variety of freelancing work and her motivations for her pursuits ⁃ What makes an effective CEO or a leader ⁃ The new generation of content creation and consumption of media ⁃ Taking that leap of faith (the one you really want to take) and navigating the challenges of external validation ⁃ The power of storytelling and having a message intertwined ⁃ Allowing yourself to follow your passions
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about Selene at www.LinkedIn.com/in/selenealcock and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
P, from South Africa, joins me to talk about his experiences living in Vietnam, working and living in the Saudi Arabian mountains, his spiritual journey and philosophy, and challenges faced, including a serious car crash and being stuck in Nha Trang floods.
Topics covered
⁃ Living in the mountains, adjusting to the slower paced lifestyle and discovering the power of prayer ⁃ The benefits of traveling and experiential trips ⁃ The concept of staying present and “labels” in a material world ⁃ How to cultivate discipline and motivation ⁃ Staying humble, grateful and grounded ⁃ The power of the early morning ⁃ The benefits of contribution and why it’s such a powerful concept ⁃ How his car crash gave him perspective ⁃ Dealing with being stuck on a mountain for five days in heavy flooding ⁃ Why “catches win matches”
Epic chat, and I enormously appreciate your time, thanks P!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Today’s episode is a pod swap from my appearance on guest Zak Aghbal’s ‘Content Creator Life’ podcast, based here in Saigon, to discuss my journey, especially related to content creation.
Topics ⁃ Why “done is the new perfect” ⁃ What “always do your best” really really means ⁃ Finding, sourcing and reaching out to guests ⁃ Building the podcast brand ⁃ Intrinsic motivations ⁃ Simplify the process
If you enjoyed, check out Zak’s podcast here;
https://open.spotify.com/show/0uvqJw3ZL5ee6NcKYuHVuh?si=4UXN3EBuRF2I4ugJ2ZItVA
And previous ComebaCK episode here;
https://anchor.fm/conor-kelly02/episodes/ComebaCK-INTERVIEW-294---Zak-Aghbal---Content-CreationMinimalNerd--FitnessPublicSpeakingVietnam-e1c0agl
Donovan Pham is a recurring guest, fitness transformation coach for men, and joins me today to discuss his thoughts on the Will Smith vs Chris Rock incident, and what it reveals about our modern concepts of society and masculinity.
Topics ⁃ Why Smith’s actions were wrong and “cowardly” rather than “manly” ⁃ Did Rock cross the line, and what is “the line”? ⁃ What does this mean for Smith’s legacy? ⁃ Society’s attitudes towards male vulnerability ⁃ Servicing yourself by attending therapy and the real cost of not doing so ⁃ What genuine masculinity is ⁃ Why reaching out for help is a strength and not a weakness ⁃ Managing your physical, emotional and mental fitness and vibrations ⁃ It’s not your fault, but it’s certainly your responsibility how to deal with your issues
Www.Donovanmypham.as.me
FOR YOUR FREE FITNESS 1v1 CONSULTATION with Donovan, click link above ^. You can also follow @donovanmypham on Instagram for his weekly content.
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Sam joins me for the latest ComebaCK podcast to discuss a hybrid of topics including travel, challenges and “ventures”. This includes traveling the world at 18, and across most of Vietnam throughout CO-VID’s summer 2021 peak, facing physical and mental challenges, such as breaking a leg abroad and battling mental health issues and suicidal thoughts, and winging Glastonbury and featuring on British daytime TV show, Judge Rinder.
Topics
⁃ The serotonin overflow of traveling the world at 18, Asia and Australia, and the comedown of returning to the UK ⁃ Mental health challenges at university, suicidal thoughts and getting immersed in the party university lifestyle, seeking the highs of traveling ⁃ Breaking a leg abroad, the long term ramifications, and the chances of a full recovery in 18 months ⁃ Featuring on Judge Rinder and winging it to Glastonbury festival ⁃ The beauty of Vietnam and why he came back every summer ⁃ How he manages his mental health nowadays ⁃ The benefits of conversation, asking for help and getting things off your chest
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ani Hoang is a Hungarian/Vietnamese health and fitness enthusiast, with her own fitness page (anihoang_) and SEO content editor, who joins me to discuss themes of fitness, confidence issues, body image, building consistent habits and routine, and the journey that she’s currently on in Vietnam.
Ani talks about developing her confidence and identity, and the challenges faced due to being a hybrid of Western and Asian influences and mentalities. This leads us into the attitudes towards fitness, related to body image, avoiding comparison, debunking fitness misconceptions, and building your own inner confidence and intrinsic motivation.
Other areas;
⁃ Think like “the business owner” when applying or selling yourself ⁃ How she operates her fitness profile ⁃ Achieving optimal performance ⁃ The benefits of bullet journaling ⁃ Clarifying your core values ⁃ Developing the small habits and managing your time ⁃ Binge eating and unhealthy food habits to be skinny (orthorexia), PCOS syndrome, and the dangers of labeling food ⁃ The importance of movement and balance ⁃ Her key strengths and weaknesses ⁃ Why your fitness journey is yours and yours alone
You can find out more about Ani at @anihoang_ on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Teaser: There will be a more specific and targeted sequel episode very very soon….stay tuned 👀👀
Disclaimer: For anybody interested in building or developing their brand, check this out.
For episode 350, I was delighted to be joined by Abhijit Das, Founder of ‘Narrativ.Design’ - a management consultancy, based in Vietnam and India, focused on building brands and brand narratives through the RESET. He joins me to specifically discuss branding.
Topics include Abhijit’s passion for his work, the importance of really knowing your brand’s value and mission (the truth about your business) and how that subsequently manifests, the importance of asking the right questions when dealing with clients, adapting to different mediums of branding, how the principles of branding remain the same across cultures, and the importance of contribution.
You can find out more about Narrativ Design here;
https://www.narrativ.design/people
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Disclaimer: Especially post pandemic, working remotely and digital nomadic work is more prevalent than ever - if interested, this is the conversation for you!
Flaminia Buda joins me to discuss her work and lifestyle as a digital nomad and the concept of remote working, which she’s been doing for several years.
Flaminia talks to me about her upbringing in Italy and American background, her first expat experience in Barcelona, and how that set the tone for both traveling abroad, and working remotely, living the life as a digital nomad.
We discuss the pros and cons of the lifestyle, including freedom and flexibility vs loneliness, uncertainty and frustration. Flaminia expands on the key traits required to succeed in the digital nomad space, and especially the workshops she does in helping clients navigate and tailor an approach specific to them, whether that be freelancer, entrepreneur or otherwise. Themes include creativity, connection, empathy and more.
Absolute pleasure - thank you, Flaminia!
You can find out more about Flaminia here;
CTA: https://linktr.ee/nomadhaven
instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flaminiabuda/
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ilona Pak is a software developer by day, a DJ by night, and has a unique background of various countries, including Russia, Korea, Japan, Philippines and Vietnam.
On today’s episode, Ilona discusses her background from mixing in so many different and varied cultures, and ultimately ending up in Vietnam.
We talk about software developing, coding, the rapidly growing digital future, especially in Vietnam and South East Asia, and staying disciplined and motivated by remote work, pre/post pandemic.
Regarding her DJ nightlife, we discuss introversion transferring into performing behind the decks, keeping the party going, how to develop and evolve as a DJ, the importance of mentorship, and her plans for the future.
Pleasure Ilona - lots of insight and takeaways! Hugely appreciated.
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
John Celea is an actor, musician and theatre enthusiast, a lover of entertainment, and an expat in Vietnam, having spent his time between Hanoi and Da Nang.
We discuss his theatrical side, his education in the South of England, why he aspires to be an actor, how he develops into character, uses theatrics to enhance his performance, and his favorite aspects about the industry.
We also go into more of a spiritual realm and go into detail on the concept of Breathwork - how it can be so beneficial and transformational for your mental well-being, referencing the practices of Wim Hof.
John is currently teaching acting in Da Nang, and hopes to continue spreading the positive energy and entertainment, and “clowning around”.
I had the pleasure of watching John perform in Phu Quoc in January, and was hugely impressed, and therefore delighted to catch up with a follow up interview.
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Umbrella Man Saigon are an indie rock outfit in Saigon, whom I recently had the pleasure of watching at Thao Dien Soma, and Mac and Peter join me for a musically themed podcast. We discuss their musical influences, experiences and genres, and how they developed their musicianship abroad, in the thriving music scene of Saigon.
Questions also include; ideal stag dos with musicians, the songs we wish we would have written, and favorite artists, past and contemporary.
Thoroughly enjoyed - thanks Mac and Peter!
You can find out more about Umbrella Man here;
https://m.facebook.com/umbrellamanSGN/
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Coastal Connection, fresh from their gig at Thao Dien Soma, join me for the third installment of ‘Cold Ones With Conor’, and delighted to have the quartet back, (Holland missed #2), and drummer Jordan’s final gig before moving onto pastures new.
We discuss the band’s gig, future, overall thoughts, and dive into topics such as Will Smith vs Chris Rock, our worst ever school pranks and Vietnam experiences, understanding American slang, the significance of dreams, and more.
Thanks so much, gents - all the very best to Jordan on his new chapter, and looking forward to the next era of Coastal Connection and their future collaborations with ComebaCK.
Disclaimer: The constant noise is the salt water taffy from New England in the USA being devoured, which Holland kindly provided, and the usual selection of cracking open the cold ones.
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thanh (TRIXTHEFITFRIENDS) joins me to discuss her health and fitness and personal training journey - however this conversation transcends health and fitness. It includes purpose, connection, communication, creativity, self expression, human relationships, humility, and constantly learning.
She discusses the passion and energy she has for helping her clients transform their mind and body, referencing her work with over 100 people in her two years to date, how her experiences have evolved from different exercise routines and avenues, and how she gets the best results possible for her clients.
Thank you Thanh for giving such an empowering and wide ranging conversation!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thao Ly, from Coffee Talk English in Saigon (Bin Thanh and District 5), joins me to discuss moving from her small Vietnamese hometown to the big city of Saigon, her journey of learning and connecting with numerous others through the pursuit of learning English, and how beneficial it can be to learn the language.
As a native speaker and English teacher in Vietnam, it’s amazing to use this platform to highlight it’s importance, especially for the Vietnamese community. Ly discusses more how it’s benefited her social life, international friendship circle, career development opportunities, and the origins of Coffee Talk English - a small organization with regular classes across the city, which aims to help locals learn, practice and develop their skills in an informal and casual environment, with emphasis on conversation that will transfer into the real world.
You can volunteer as a native speaker or a foreigner here;
https://m.facebook.com/coffeetalk.english.hcm/
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Disclaimer: We at ComebaCK apologize for the technical issues that were experienced throughout this episode - consequences of remote recording!
Dustin Kemp is an SEO writer, travel writer, focusing on tourism and expat and local life in Vietnam, having heavily immersed himself in the culture over his extended period here. Throughout this conversation, we discuss the evolution of his work, why he decided to mix typical expat living with huge immersion in local Vietnamese communities with hidden gems, why Dustin fell in love with the city of Saigon, and the tourism bounce back that is going to take place in 2022.
We also discuss Dustin’s work as a travel writer - the importance of persistence and authenticity, how to distinguish between reputable sources, the joys and challenges of the job, and more. Really enjoyed!
Despite the aforementioned audio and technical issues, it takes nothing away from the knowledge, experience, enthusiasm, professionalism and passion that Dustin brings to the podcast - it was a pleasure to chat!
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ian from the Rabbit Hole Irish Sports Bar, based in both Phu Quoc and Saigon, joins me to discuss the origins of the bar and business, and setting up their Irish bar abroad.
Ian discusses his background in hospitality and business, entrepreneurship and how he’s spent his ten years in Vietnam, beginning his journey and developing the Rabbit Hole over time, both in Phu Quoc, and now here in Saigon.
We discuss the challenges faced in setting up the bar, especially during the pandemic and dealing with location issues, developing rapport over time with customers and staff alike, why the bar is so iconic and special here in Vietnam, and perhaps future plans for expansion. Watch this space!
This is a great insight into an iconic part of the party island and the Irish scene in Saigon, and also how to set up business abroad, particularly in hospitality.
You can find out more about the Rabbit Hole here; https://www.therabbitholeirishbar.com/
https://instagram.com/rabbit_hole_irish_sports_bars?utm_medium=copy_link
https://www.facebook.com/RabbitHoleIrishSportsBars/
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Episode 340 of ComebaCK is when I hopped onto the ‘Winging It Travel Podcast’, with James Hammond in January to discuss my experiences in Vietnam, and future plans for traveling around Asia, perhaps moving to Australia and perhaps experiencing Europe. You can find out more about the Winging It Travel Podcast here; https://open.spotify.com/show/6ruzP0SCwPEOIchzbl10P8?si=dYeE5HdFQImCjS1AF1D6Cw
Disclaimer: This is a must listen. Profound, impactful, beautiful.
Welcoming my third German guest, Lu joins me for a powerful and profound conversation about moving abroad, self discovery, healing from past traumas, working on the inner child, taking complete responsibility, and a unique take on energy healing.
Lu discusses her travel experiences and plans in living abroad and exploring the world, and deeper reasons why - her jet setting has brought her to Australia, Cambodia and currently Vietnam over an eight year period.
We explore the concept of “home” and “who are we” and what these deeper questions really mean. Lu also opens up on reprogramming unhelpful subconscious beliefs and her inner healing journey, whilst also how she benefits from her energy healing practice.
This is extremely powerful and I hope you enjoy. Lu - thank you!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Adam Schofield is a DJ, teacher, writer, poet, ‘Ninjam’, expat out here in Vietnam from Manchester, and joins me to discuss khemitology, the resurfacing of Ancient Wisdom, an alternative approach to life, what the pyramids actually are and how they reflect our understanding about life, good and bad, positive and negative, and karma.
We discuss Adam’s 25 year quest on this subject, his experiences through Egypt which furthered his discovery, his extensive reading lists, why it’s so fulfilling and fascinating, and where he would like to go on his journey. Adam also discusses some of his couch surfing experiences and how he’s making his own comeback after some difficult moments. Thank you for sharing with the podcast, Adam - much appreciated!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
JK Hobson is a recurring guest on the podcast, and previously appeared on Episode 71 to discuss his life to date, primarily his music, comedy and life in America and Vietnam. However, he’s also a devout Buddhist, and joins ComebaCK to discuss his practice in more detail.
We eluded to his Buddhist chanting practice in the past episode, but here we go in more detail about the exact nature of the practice, the key benefits as a result, the blessings he’s received since beginning around 14 years ago, debunking misconceptions about the Buddha, and giving more insight into the Buddha himself, from hundreds of years ago. We also talk more about spirituality on a wider perspective and how it can apply to modern life, especially with relationships, before diving into the concepts of karma, enlightenment, and universal order.
Thanks so much for another appearance, JK!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Yanet Treto is a Cuban dancer, model and aspiring yoga teacher who has spent seven years in Vietnam. We discuss her background, where incredibly, she was begged to pursue dancing at a young age, and now dances professionally.
We discuss the lifestyle of living abroad, championing the occasionally maligned expat neighborhood of Thao Dien, the mixture of roles and traits required to dance and model, the ultimate benefits of movement for wellbeing and developing the flow state, varied events that Yanet performs at, overcoming challenges due to the pandemic and early years shyness, and her future desires to settle and teach in the Philippines. Thanks very much, Yanet!
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thomas Galvez is a Californian musician, teacher and founder of ‘Other Voices VN’, bringing indie, post punk, shoegaze, New Wave, synthpop and goth to the Saigon music community.
Throughout our musical conversation, we spent a great hour reminiscing of the record and radio eras of music, especially with the aforementioned genres, and our shared experiences growing up in famous and iconic musical environments - Thomas, San Diego, California and Conor, Manchester.
We discuss Thomas’ 22 year career in living overseas and sampling different music scenes from Europe, Asia and the Middle East, the true authentic power of music, and how one song can really really….really….change your life.
We conclude by dissecting the ideal role that Other Voices VN is hoping to play in the expanding Saigon music scene.
The location for the first event is JUST Bar, 86 Pham Viet Chanh in Binh Thanh District. 9pm-12pm. I suggest you attend!! Thank you, Thomas!
For more information;
https://m.facebook.com/othervoicesvn/
For more information about ComebaCK, follow @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Kirsten Jackson is ‘The IBS Dietitian” on Instagram, helping individuals control their IBS so they no longer have food anxiety.
We discuss what IBS is, symptoms and how it can manifest itself in others as a condition, both physically and mentally. Throughout the conversation, Kirsten shares her personal and professional experiences about the condition, symptoms, how somebody with IBS can manage their relationship with food, and things to raise awareness and support for those going through the condition.
You can find out more about Kirsten and her work at;
https://instagram.com/the.ibsdietitian?utm_medium=copy_link
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK INTERVIEW #333 - Nick and Toe join me for a conversation related to life beyond language, Game A vs Game B. Topics that arise concern our ego, our justification for our actions, believing that we’re enough, transcending spiritual realizations into language, and more.
Tuti Sundara is a Laotian/Vietnamese expat, currently based in Canada, who joins me for a discussion on being a third culture kid and mental health awareness and experiences.
We discuss the mix of Laotian, French and Vietnamese cultures in her upbringing, the challenges that posed, and the origins of a mental health journey, dealing with BPD, anxiety and depression. We talk about the benefits of flow, mindfulness, staying well connected with different friendship circles, giving empathy to others, the reciprocity effect of helping others, avoiding self imposed limiting “labels”, and her techniques in staying well nowadays. Thoroughly enjoyed this insight and learned a lot. Thank you, Tuti!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Boong Le is a passionate Korean traveler who has lived in several diff countries, including Mexico, Australia and Vietnam, and joins me to discuss her travel journey. Topics inc managing studying alongside travel, perspective shifts depending on your travel experiences, how to make the most of your time, and more. Really fun time, Boong - thanks to Rory’s Bar in Phu Quoc for arranging! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Joyce Le is a Singaporean/Vietnamese content creator, currently based and working in Ho Chi Minh, and joins the podcast to discuss her content creation journey, evolving over time, her intrinsic motivation, shedding light on exploring Saigon’s hidden gems, and how she manages her content for herself alongside her audience.
Joyce also sheds light on her experiences with endometriosis, an incurable condition that 1 in 10 women experience, and are often misdiagnosed with. She shares how the chronic pain condition has affected her diet, daily lifestyle and mental health, and how she manages her symptoms.
Thank you to Joyce for sharing her story and experiences! Was a pleasure to chat.
You can find out more about Joyce here;
https://youtube.com/c/HelloSaigon
https://instagram.com/joy.withendo?utm_medium=copy_link
Hoang Minh Chau is a Vietnamese/Hanoi based musician, artist, jazz promoter, stylist, composer and founder of her own art gallery in Vietnam’s capital.
Throughout our conversation, we discuss the complexities of jazz and her passion for promoting the genre, the variety of themes she’s been introduced to, from Linkin Park to classical music, the challenges as a musician of physical injuries and adapting to lifestyles abroad, setting up her own art gallery in Hanoi, and her future aims.
Thank you, Chau!
You can find out more about her work here;
https://www.facebook.com/chauandcogallery/
And more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Jaigon Orchestra vocalist Ket joins me to discuss the evolution of his band and musical journey, from Grade 8 guitar-playing in Vietnam, moving forward with music and production, his Chinese-Vietnamese background, inspiration from the movies towards his work, and slightly more philosophical conversation about purpose and meaning.
You can find out more about Jaigon Orchestra here;
https://www.facebook.com/jaigon.orchestra
https://open.spotify.com/artist/4HGrrevENLsGCTS9bwqUrm?si=zS9VLMqkT_CenGzE9tRtPQ
Karina Kotova is a Ukrainian hair stylist currently operating in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. Karina joins me today to discuss her passion for her work, the creative aspects about her work, the physical demands, her methods in connecting with clients in an international community in Saigon, and settling abroad here. Thoroughly enjoyed, thank you, Karina!
You can find out more about Karina at @kotova.style on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck
Alicia Moran is a creative freelancer in Ho Chi Minh Vietnam, from Oregon, experienced in advertising and marketing, and joins me to discuss a wide range of creative projects, including her creative event series at Soma in Thao Dien, showcasing comedy, spoken poetry, and much more. We discuss the importance of combining creativity with her academic background, sorting out her creative process, and living abroad in Vietnam. This was fun, insightful and covered a wide range of topics. Thank you, Alicia!
Selena Luong is a Group X instructor, including Dance Fitness and Sexy Dance, and an aspiring sex and relationships coach, from Vietnam. We discuss her background, evolving towards her work, changing perceptions and attitudes towards sex in Vietnam, pornography, and her work both as a Group X instructor, and as an aspiring sex and relationships coach.
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Chelsey M Cashwell is an American expat living in Saigon, Vietnam, heavily involved in martial arts, mindfulness, comedy and self improvement, who joins me for the longest episode of ComebaCK to date.
This conversation is so wide ranging and insightful, it’s difficult to pinpoint into a bio as we go into numerous avenues. These include her martial arts evolution and spiritual journey, dealing with traumatic past experiences, living with a personality disorder, managing and utilizing her emotions in the most effective way possible, her expat experiences from China to Vietnam, her gung-ho approach to life, making her personal comeback, and ultimately, why your past doesn’t have to define you.
Thank you for such an open, insightful and epic chat, Chelsey - I look forward to round two!
If you enjoyed this conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Myself and Nick Cabrejos once again hop onto the pod to dive into the rabbit hole, this time with author, ‘Toe’ from Canada, to discuss his spiritual journey.
We introduce the podcast with the story of Toe’s brother’s work, where within a week, three of his dying patients tried to give him a message before death. Throughout the rabbit hole, we discuss how spirituality can’t always translate into language, hence it’s complexities, whether the “improvement game” is really worthwhile, the concepts of “infinity” and “enough”, benefits of viewing the world without filter as a toddler perhaps, benefiting from Alan Watts and his ability to translate this medium into language, and what really goes through your mind when coming to your life’s final moments.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Stephan Guyen is a French jazz musician, part of ‘Romain Vuilleman Quartet’, and joins the podcast to discuss his career in music, especially jazz music, and experiences in both of the Paris and Saigon music scenes.
We dive into the quartet’s development into one of the biggest stages possible for their genre and the fascinating intertwining of both rock and jazz music. As the conversation develops, we discuss mentoring and improving the music collectives around, navigating creative differences within people, and why choosing 1920-40’s jazz music is his preferred mix.
Thanks so much, Stephan! Amazing chat!
You can find out more about Stephan, the quartet, and his work below;
https://www.facebook.com/romainvuilleminquartet/
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Vesselina Naidenova is the founder of ‘English Vess’, previously in academia, and heavily immersed in education, teaching people English as a foreign language, both with her clients and larger language speaking group sessions, online/offline, with over 25,000 learners around the world. She joins the podcast to discuss her background in native Bulgaria to developing such levels of education and teaching experiences, the main motivations for her work, and why English is so important as a second language for foreigners, including doctors and academics, and incorporating English into your daily lifestyle, making small, incremental changes.
Throughout this episode, we include the criteria for being an effective teacher and student, as in to consistently reach the best possible learning style, developing an accent and how the language works, adapting teaching of the language to different mediums, styles, levels and cultures, and why she’s so enthusiastic about affecting change on such a scale.
I really admire Vesselina’s work rate, enthusiasm and application, and really appreciate her making time for the podcast. Thank you, Vesselina!
You can find out more about Vesselina at english_vess on TikTok (her ever growing platform), and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Katerina Tokareva is a Russian expat who spent 2014-2021 in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, immersed within the bar scene in the famous local tourist and nightlife strip, Bui Vien. On an expat and entrepreneurship themed podcast, Katerina joins me to discuss her main challenges in F&B, developing her career, her experiences in Vietnam specifically, the importance of building connections with locals when setting up business in Vietnam, working heavily in that bar industry, her work pre/past pandemic in hospitality, navigating those challenges, and her decision to wrap up her Vietnam chapter for now. Thank you, Katerina!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Carey from ‘Carey OK!’ and ‘The Tom Cruisader’ , joins the podcast to discuss his career in musical theater, dealing with challenges and setbacks, and expat experiences in Asia.
The conversation begins with the fascinating and four year origin story of how Carey became ‘The TomCruisader’, into a philosophical discussion about how we can identify ourselves to be our most effective and authentic versions of one other, dealing with a large variety of people and different personalities, why rejection can often be an avenue into a more suitable path, (the example of film work vs voiceover), and motivations for pursuing an acting career.
One key question we ponder; Do you want to be an actor or do you want to be famous? The discussion then leads into a discussion on finding your intrinsic motivations for pursuing your work.
We go further into his show Carey: OK, an award-winning, all ages one-man acapella/beatboxing musical, using only looper tracks and vocally layering tracks live on stage, using subjects such as anxiety, social media and being a hero for others into an empowering and catchy hour of songs and story.
Towards the conclusion, there are insights into living without regrets, never losing a passion to produce your creative energy which you’re intrinsically born with, perhaps rather than mimicking, and leaving your mark, with a detailed description of the beauty of pro wrestling.
Carey’s time, enthusiasm and energy was enormously appreciated, and I think you’ll love this valuable conversation.
You can find out more about Carey here;
https://instagram.com/tomcruisader?utm_medium=copy_link
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck.
Dr Bram is Saigon’s European chiropractor, and joins me today to discuss his practice, spiritual relationship and journey, and taking on his work from a holistic health perspective.
We discuss the logistics of his practice, knowing your audience, managing the risks and misconceptions involved with chiropractic work, and delve more into personality types, and how to acknowledge, explore and understand yourself. We also discuss the importance of physiology and posture, debunking misconceptions about the practice, and upon seeking a chiropractic understanding, what to expect from a consultation, especially based on the practitioner/patient’s relationship and needs.
Thank you, Dr Bram!
Link: https://www.facebook.com/ECCSaigon/
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ruben Martinez Lopez is the founder of ‘Tế Tê Beers’, part of the craft beer scene in Vietnam, heavily involved in advertising, and also a graphic designer, having previously worked in San Francisco, having moved from his native Spain for university. We discuss his background, from an aspiring video game creator, to working on numerous advertising campaigns and 3D design, to ultimately traveling abroad on a one way ticket to Thailand, and settling in Saigon for almost a decade, including setting up business here.
In a fun and wide ranging discussion, we discuss the importance of spontaneity compared to planning/organization, setting up business abroad, having to manage the marketing/sales/HR team, the importance of truly enjoying the work you do, navigating the challenges of a pandemic, and watching the company develop and grow without losing a core identity.
Thoroughly enjoyed this. Thanks very much for your time, Ruben!
https://www.facebook.com/tetecraftbeer/
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Petey Majik Nguyen is a magician, actor, stand up comedian, entertainer, and host at ‘PartyNeverStops’. He’s had an extensive career in entertainment, featured in Vietnamese movies and media, and has lived in Saigon 11 years. He goes into depth on his background in his magic career, developing it professionally for corporate gigs in Vietnam and regularly performing, moving into acting in large films, the challenges faced throughout a career in entertainment, and remaining composed throughout the process. Really fun to conduct, thank you, Pete!
If you enjoyed this podcast conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Mariano D G is a varied and skilled artist from New York, currently operating in Saigon, Vietnam, and joins me today to discuss the range of work in his portfolio, including harnessing inspiration for his creativity by driving around the vibrant Go Vap District, developing illustration, portrait and animation alike. We also discuss the vibrancy of creative and artistic scenes in Vietnam, both Saigon and Hanoi, and Mariano discusses breaking out of his comfort zone to embark in drag performances, leading into podcast themes of jumping out of the comfort zone, embracing variety, maintaining focus, and enjoying the creative process.
Thank you, Mariano!
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Jamie Le Dee is a South African international school teacher and expat, having lived extensively in Asia, both South Korea, Vietnam in Da Nang, Hanoi and Ha Long. We discuss her background in South Africa, pros and cons, moving to Asia, her teaching philosophy which is centered around love, and the introspective process that you can go through in living abroad.
Thank you very much, Jamie-Lee!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Dia Benke joins the show to discuss her Hungarian background and experiences in both traveling and teaching, both abroad in Vietnam, and also in Turkey and Portugal.
We delve into her background of teaching, favorite aspects of the profession, and cultivating a warm classroom culture. We discuss expat life, the importance of immersing yourself in an international background, the importance of connecting with others, especially once abroad, and bouncing back from the pandemic. We also dive into life specifically in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, escaping the chaos at times, and finding connection and purpose in a vibrant and chaotic city.
If you enjoyed this episode, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Zeyad Sayed is the founder of ‘Matcha Designs’ here in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, and a recurring guest. He joins the show to discuss the inspiration behind design, the projects that have taken place so far, and life in Vietnam. In a thoroughly enjoyable conversation, we discuss the importance of saying no, working with friends or partners, the intrinsic motivation behind creative pursuits, and the dos/donts of life in Saigon. Thank you, Zeyad! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Darran Wallace is a special recurring guest on ComebaCK, founder of ‘Northern Lights Events Services’, and host of ‘The MiND Podcast’, where I was blessed with my debut podcast opportunity in December 2020. We discuss a busy schedule in 2021 that Darran navigated with both his start up business in events services and his wedding, seeking solace in sport and music pursuits, managing a balance, making sense of the challenges in our own heads, and aims for 2022. A pleasure as always Darran, and I look forward to round three! You can find out more about Darran at www.northernlightseventhire.com and @darranwallace on Instagram. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In today’s interview, I’m joined by the Vietnamese pop punk outfit, Taiyoken. The boys chat to me about their career so far, expanding the pop punk genre here in Vietnam, themes of their songwriting, being influenced by artists such as blink-182, Simple Plan and Linkin Park, and upcoming 2022 tour plans.
You can access their music at
Taiyoken: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4waIbFW4Off03pdz6FvlbJ?si=hIOhFUiORzSlwm4o5E-usA
ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck
In a special edition of ComebaCK, and the one year anniversary, I answer some of the most commonly asked questions about a year of podcasting on ComebaCK, including favorite themes, favorite topics, key lessons, and more. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
NACHE CHAN is a recurring guest, part of ‘SHADYLANES’, on Episode 100, and joins me today to discuss upcoming plans for the band in Thailand, his solo releases coming throughout 2022, releasing remixes for Thai and Vietnamese artists such as ‘Getsunova’, and the introspective yet fun balance of releasing music. We also discuss slightly further the themes behind the raw and powerful SHADYLANES video, ‘The Confines Of Everything’, and the issues producing albums in the 2022 era of TikTok.
You can find out more about NACHE and SHADYLANES at these links here;
https://youtube.com/c/SHADYLANES
https://www.instagram.com/nachechan_/
https://www.facebook.com/SHADYLANES
https://youtube.com/c/NACHECHAN
Sadie Young is an artist and educator from California who has been exploring the various modalities of meditation and emotional healing since 2016. She has created a signature method of art to overcome stress, depression and artistic blocks - meditative art.
We discuss how meditative art helps stay grounded and present without the pressures of performing, experiencing peace and mindfulness through artistry, how novices and creatives alike combine for these workshops, and her work with ‘Dao Hai Trinh’, a community based project amongst friends, offering art therapy to children. All workshop proceedings will go towards creating an arts program for orphans in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.
Thank you for your time, Sadie!
You can find out more about Sadie here : https://www.facebook.com/Sadie.Young.Meditative.Art/
More about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Gareth Craze, previously on Episode 25 of ComebaCK, joins me for Round Two. Gareth is an executive performance coach and life coach, as well as a coaching psychologist, and also teaches leadership to MBA students at Western Sydney University, in addition to teaching management and organizational behaviour at the University of Economics Ho Chi Minh City.
“There is no such thing as professional success or development without sound mental health.”
We discuss the above statement and his coaching practice in further detail, including the lines between coaching and traditional therapy, the importance of the four pillars, (diet/exercise/sleep/mindfulness), dissecting pseudoscience such as NLP and Law Of Attraction, aims for Energeia Coaching, how he tailors his approach to each individual client, and why we need to make time for some our most important commodities - our physical and emotional health.
You can find out more about Gareth at https://energeiacoaching.com/ and @energeiacoaching on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Discretion: This podcast discusses a lot of domestic abuse and violence. Some listeners might find the content upsetting.
Maude Berardelli is a recurring guest, having previously appeared on ComebaCK in July, and has been based in Saigon, Vietnam for four years in the F&B scene.
Today, in a different themed episode, we discuss challenges specifically women face in the F&B scene, and also society, before exploring themes of domestic violence and abuse. Maude recounts her own personal experiences, looking to support others going through a similar situation.
We discuss spotting red flags of narcissists, what we can do to support the victims/survivors of domestic violence, how it manifests over a decade later, the complex reality of the situation, #MeToo, and how to make the comeback.
Thank you Maude for your time and openness, much appreciated!
Extra reading resources:
https://livre.fnac.com/a13539459/Sophie-Lambda-Tant-pis-pour-l-amour-Ou-comment-j-ai-survecu-a-un-manipulateur
(English translation available April 12th 2022)
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Discretion: The themes discussed in this podcast, some might find distressing.
Ed Mashek is initially from America, currently living as an expat in Saigon, Vietnam since 2015, and joins me to discuss his stories background and journey, and how he is making his comeback.
We discuss his upbringing in foster care, experiences of torture, rape and child abuse - dealing with intense bullying, and mental health challenges, including PTSD. We also discuss his felony charge, aged 18, which has hindered Ed’s professional career since.
We discuss processing these events throughout childhood and adult life, using sport, wrestling, weightlifting exercises as a form of therapy, subsequently moving into education, how those early experiences still manifest today, and the upcoming book that Ed has to release, documenting his life to date.
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Clive Pendock, previously on ComebaCK, returns on the first episode of 2022 to discuss his career, his ongoing Vietnam music tour in December 2021 to now, touring Hanoi, Nha Trang, Da Nang, Saigon and Phu Quoc, his musical influences, upcoming album and sponsorship, drunken tour stories, his recent engagement, and dream stag do guests from the music world. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Coastal Connection join me back for the second edition of ‘Cold Ones With Conor’, following their debut in April. We discuss their career on TV in Rock Vietnam, their evolution, and then move into slightly different territory. These topics include British slang, bringing celebrities to Saigon, which musicians you’d bring on a stag do, dead or alive, the worst names possible, and more. Until Round 3, Gents! If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Josselin Ferruzza (Goss) is the co founder and CEO of Arcan Nightclub in Saigon, and heavily involved in the music and nightlife scene in the city, since arriving in 2017. Throughout this conversation, we discuss starting up his nightlife events for Arcan, developing psytrance, the challenges involved throughout his business journey to date, from rent space to the CO-VID pandemic, his debut in nightlife as a fire performer, the rollercoaster journey to date, and future aims.
Links:
https://hearthis.at/goss-arcan/ https://fr-fr.facebook.com/ArcanSaigon/
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Episode 300 of ComebaCK. It’s been an absolute pleasure releasing these episodes. More to come 2022.
Nick Cabrejos joins me again to discuss the transition from the Saigon chaos to the suburbs of Virginia, USA, and adapting to moving back home after a three year expat experience.
We discuss the importance of taking control/responsibility internally, changing our narratives, taking minuscule steps and actions into achieving our goals, the choice and power we really have through the power of reframing, learning from mentors such as David Goggins, developing and taming our ego, and more.
If you enjoyed this episode, or any of the 300 ComebaCK releases so far, you can access in the archives, or find out more at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Merry Christmas And A Happy New Year!
Quynh Le works to empower young people to discover their true purpose, authentic self, and true potential. Her work revolves around healing, masculine and feminine energy in good balance and harmony. She joins me to discuss these concepts in depth, whether traditional therapy is effective or not, techniques to harmoniously balance energies from both sexes, her work, her manifestation process, and more.
For more information about Quynh, visit quynhspeaks at Instagram and YouTube, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Shayne Ro is a Filipino expat in Saigon, Vietnam, founder of ‘Call Kitchen HCMC’, with her background in hospitality and business, and joins me today to discuss her travel experiences, moving to Vietnam during the pandemic, combining her passion for cooking into a business, earning money abroad during a difficult period, and the origins of ‘Call Kitchen’, and more.
You can find out more about Call Kitchen here, (including the brownies), https://www.facebook.com/callkitchenhcm/
If you enjoyed, Instagram: @thecomebackwithck
Alice Le, from Da Nang, Vietnam, joins the podcast to discuss her life living and studying abroad between the Netherlands and Vietnam, crossing both of these, her experiences in tourism and modeling, aims for the future, and beauty of both countries. Great conversation! If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
David Petrashek joins me to raise awareness for those living with asperger syndrome and autism, and what can be done to assist those with the conditions. We cover why it’s not as commonly discussed as other movements, how to deal with neurotypicals, triggers, and improving in any situation. We discuss famous figures such as Elon Musk and Greta Thunberg, how to become more welcoming and accessible, understanding the loneliness and frustration A’s face whilst facing social interaction, and more. David did an excellent job highlighting these issues, and I really think you’ll benefit from this conversation. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram, and more about David’s charity fundraiser here: https://secure.givelively.org//donate/saigon-childrens-charity/david-petrashek
Ricky Sahni is a personal trainer and martial artist from India, heavily involved in fitness, and the host of ‘Beyond Butter Burpee’ podcast, having spent the last five years in Saigon, Vietnam.
We discuss his upbringing in India, and how both his fitness journey and martial arts careers evolved. We chat about expat life in Vietnam, coming to this country and building his life here, why fitness and health is so important to him, and techniques involved in developing a client/trainer relationship.
There will definitely be sequels to this. Thank you, Ricky!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Zak Aghbal is based in Saigon, Vietnam as a Youtuber/content creator, having a background in engineering, fitness/bodybuilding, and public speaking. In this wide ranging discussion, we go deep into Zak’s near death experience and that subsequent impact. We then dive into how he developed his mindset from there, moving abroad to develop his public speaking practices, learning from mentors such as Jim Rohn, and his five years now based in Vietnam.
We discuss the importance of providing value on YouTube, and benefits of content creation, the logistics behind the filming, editing and scripting, and how he became heavily involved in Tech YouTube.
Really enjoyed this one, and look forward to round two!
You can find out more about Zak at https://www.youtube.com/minimalnerd
Trevor Kuchar is a mindfulness meditation teacher, currently based in Da Nang, Vietnam, and joins me for a spiritual conversation of compassion, responsibility and forgiveness, both for ourselves and others. We discuss his past military service and transition into civilian life and meditation practices, challenges in moving and being stuck abroad during the pandemic, and reframing possibilities and challenges in our minds. We delve more into great starting points for meditation, including Dr Joe Dispenza and Eckhart Tolle, the importance of affirmations, and trusting the process and outcome.
Trevor hopes to open his meditation and ice cream services in Da Nang soon - ‘The Crafty Cows’. I strongly suggest you attend to see his enthusiasm and insight. Thank you, Trevor!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Joey Landreth is a highly rated guitarist and musician, one half of duo, ‘The Bros Landreth’, alongside his brother, Dave, and has been heavily involved in music from a young age, being influenced by the likes of Stevie Ray Vaughan. The brothers album, ‘Let It Lie’, won multiple awards, a JUNO, and had them touring 400 dates on the road. Joey discusses his career, both in the band and as a solo artist, his musical influences, incorporating passion, honesty and vulnerability in his songs, his personal challenges, including overcoming alcoholism, and keeping to his authentic self as an artist. I saw Joey live in Sheffield in January 2017, he was absolutely brilliant, this interview was a pleasure. Thank you, Joey! If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
In a Christmas themed episode, to a degree, it was a pleasure to interview Debbie Isitt. Debbie Isitt is an English film director, directing the highly acclaimed franchise of British Christmas films, ‘Nativity!’, starring actors such as Martin Freeman, David Tenant and Alan Carr. We discuss her background in film and theatre, the process of directing and working on the ‘Nativity!’ franchise, challenges faced in film and why they’re rewarding, favorite aspects, and more. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Willis Huynh is a businessman, entrepreneur, founder of a new startup in Southeast Asia, and a content creator. In this episode, we discuss gaming, turning it into a monetized product, content creation, the logistics that work going into a YouTube channel, the importance of mentors such as GaryVee, the future of business in Vietnam, finding a balance, and more. Thanks, Willis!
Links;
YouTube.com/WillisHBK
YouTube.com/WillisHuynh
@thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Micka Chu is a French/Russian MC, actress, model, scriptwriter and content creator, heavily featured in Vietnamese entertainment and media. She speaks five languages, (Vietnamese, French, Russian, English and Spanish), and joins me today for a wide ranging discussion.
We discuss her background in business, how she got into entertainment, and her career in Vietnam to date. In terms of challenges, we discuss dealing with isolation, difficulties in her upbringing moving from Russia to France, cultivating a healthy, strong, compassionate mindset, and ultimately arriving to Vietnam, where we dive into how she loves the country after a five year stay here, as well as her upcoming desires and dreams.
You can find out more about Micka at @_micka_chu on Instagram.
Facebook at:
https://www.facebook.com/macha.kalinina
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Surabhi Jaiswar, previously on ComebaCK, joins me today to discuss an upcoming event from CORMIS Da Nang. CORMIS Da Nang is a local NGO, busy preparing for this time of year by up-cycling materials, making some useful wearable clothing for gifting and wearing in holiday and winter. As a local NGO, they do research & run various programs aiming to improve the quality of life of the marginalized people in a sustainable way. This time they’re bringing us this event, WINTER WONDERLAND, showcasing work of local ladies from marginalized communities.
This event is jam packed with fun, entertainment and positive messages. There will be survivors of abuse, trauma, diseases, violence, illiteracy and physical disability will take the walk on the fashion runway establishing the difference between being and happening. It is an endeavor to empower the survivors and humanity.
The event also aims to raise fund for coming projects run by CORMIS to support the marginalized people:
. Skill and capacity development . Mental Health program for women with physical disabilities . Project Little Girls Dreams.
Moni Le is a life purpose coach from Vietnamese/Hungarian origins, and one of the co hosts of ‘Creators In Vietnam’ podcast.
We talk about her background in Hungary and Amsterdam, up until Saigon, with an angle on expat life. We discuss her upbringing of, difficulties on understanding her thought processes and identity growing up in an overseas culture, getting away from her comfort zone, and settling in Vietnam during the pandemic.
Her work centres on setting intentions, combining this with vulnerability, examining our own feelings, cultivating mental strength, and more. We discuss what to expect from a coaching session with Moni.
Find out more about Moni;
https://www.coachmonile.com
Find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Luke Staton is a motivational speaker and coach, dedicated to making people better, inspiring people to achieve greatness, and would like to be remembered as someone who made a difference. In this hour, we touched multiple bases. These include taking control/responsibility, the motivation behind your work, what drives Luke consistently, the energy of connecting with likeminded people, his wide range of work, the mindset behind self development, and more. Outstanding chat - Luke, thanks so much for your time! You can find out more about Luke at https://linktr.ee/lukestaton and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Gal Yates is an IFBB Pro World Champion, professional fitness athlete and competitor, 2007 IFBB World Bodyfitness Championship, 1st place (Pro Card), fitness fanatic, and works for ‘DY Nutrition’ alongside her husband, Dorian Yates, 6x Mr Olympia. Gal discusses her extensive fitness background from her native Brazil, beginning her competition career in 2006 at aged 32, and becoming world champion within one year. We discuss her approach to health and fitness from a holistic viewpoint, how she’s developed both her career and training schedule over time, marrying and working with 6x Mr Olympia husband Dorian Yates, her relationship with social media, and her aims for the future. You can find out more about Gal at @gal_yates on Instagram and @dynutrition on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Manuel Reale is the founder/owner of the authentic Italian restaurant, Pizza Reale in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, and joins me to discuss his hospitality journey, F&B in Vietnam, owning a completely Italian restaurant here, promoting and marketing the business, challenges faced due to CO-Vid, and more. If you’re Saigon based, I strongly suggest you try this restaurant! Thanks very much, Manuel! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Nick Cabrejos joins for the 21st time, and our final in person episode for a while, before he jets off back to Virginia. We discuss our collective experiences with the podcast, taking control/responsibility, living up to certain standards, finding purpose and connection, and we delve into the rabbit hole to conclude. I’m sure you can all agree, been a pleasure to have him co host so far! Until next time. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK welcomes back Nick and Ricky for a second episode, following on from episode 252, a highly acclaimed and popular episode from the archives. We chat further on mental health, the guys discuss their upcoming chapter changes in going home from Vietnam, their experiences here in Vietnam, breaking the cycle of bad habits, staying grounded, managing their emotions, and more. Stay tuned - it gets emotional towards the end!! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Niall Mackay, from Seven Million Bikes and ‘A Vietnam Podcast’, comes back to discuss his experiences being a reformed conspiracy theorist.
We discuss the reasons behind his transformation, the traps, level of distrust, and rabbit holes you can go down in looking for conspiracy theories. We also delve into the mindset of a conspiracy theorist and their motivations, methods of communication in how to change attitudes/beliefs, importance of fact checking, and how this is relevant to society nowadays, related to the ongoing Covid pandemic.
If you enjoyed, you can find out more at www.sevenmillionbikes.com.
Link to ‘A Vietnam Podcast’ : https://open.spotify.com/show/2emu0442lZisyV72BBmjeC?si=wiY4bF5kSQGMy0mtDpYhjw
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Melynda Maheux is a lawyer and heavily involved in both ‘Girls In Tech Vietnam’, and ‘HCWA’, both aiming to bridge the gap of inequality both for women in the tech industry, and those facing inequality on the streets of Vietnam. We discuss key projects, statistics, bridging the gap of inequality, the benefits of charity, and more. Thank you, Melynda! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram!
Jordan Harkin is a British expat currently in Vietnam, a recurring guest, member of Coastal Connection, previously on Episode 54, and joins me to openly discuss losing his father to suicide, how he processed this event, and how he subsequently created a joyful, fulfilling life in the aftermath.
We discuss his time in Vietnam, his great experiences here, immersing himself in the culture and language, and how setbacks don’t define you. We talk taking control of the situation, dealing with adversity, and the benefits of working with children and teaching to enjoy life. If anyone is going through similar grief, they might benefit from hearing Jordan’s story.
The comeback beats the setback is the theme of the show. This encapsulates it. Jordan, thanks a lot!
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Simon Kelly is from the Lake District, UK and currently based in Vietnam, having lived here since 2019, and joins me to discuss his various travel experiences. We discuss his upbringing in a small town and why it was an excellent time to travel around 24 years old. We discuss his various and interesting journeys, such as trekking in Nepal, driving Ho Chi Minh to Hanoi across Vietnam, exploring Malaysia, and horse riding/camping - some great stories in here. We also discuss the variety and opportunities available in Saigon, his experiences training BJJ, and his future aims related to travel. Thoroughly enjoyed this, and look forward to round two- thank you, Simon! If you enjoyed the enhanced audio and the conversation, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Laura Siddall is a professional triathlete from the UK, training and competing all over the world. Laura is currently the fifth fastest British woman of all time over the iron distance, a four time Ironman Champion, which includes winning Ironman Australia for three consecutive years (2017, 2018, 2019), Ironman New Zealand (2018), and also the ETU European Long Distance Champion (2018). Laura discusses her upbringing and background in sport, her challenges in dealing with confidence issues, the thrill of competing in such an intense environment, and her motto, “Don’t Die Wondering”. An absolute pleasure, thank you Laura! You can find out more about Laura at www.LauraSiddall.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Nhi Hien Nguyen is heavily involved in fashion design and content creation, from both her work and studies. She has studied fashion in the UK, and also spent time pursuing her career in China and Bangladesh. We discuss the mechanics and challenges of her work and career, her experiences first moving abroad to England, and difficult childhood experiences growing up in Nha Trang, Vietnam.
Nhi also expands how she channeled her painful childhood memories into an artistic practice, the liberation of getting it onto a canvas, favorite aspects about her work, and life settling in Saigon. Really enjoyed. Thank you, Nhi! You can find out more about Nhi and her work at Nhi.Hien.Nguyen on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Milan Smets is a content creator, photographer and videographer, currently based in Saigon, Vietnam. Milan is initially from Belgium but has traveled the world creating content, including Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Europe and currently Asia. In this conversation, we discuss Milan’s creative and business projects, the importance of experience and networking, cultivating these skills as an introvert, the importance of adding value for your clients, and aims for the future. It was an awesome conversation and thoroughly appreciated, thank you, Milan! You can find out more about Milan at www.mycake.sg, Milan Smets on Facebook, and on Instagram and YouTube at @milan_smets_travels. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Adam Cook joins me today to discuss paintballing at a high level, getting involved in a team sport, the practices, staying competitive and active in a 12 hour team match, how to remain motivated and how the matches are ultimately won, especially when competing at a high level. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Ryan Hales, from Melbourne, Australia, joins me to discuss a range of topics. We begin with travel, across London, Melbourne and Saigon. We move onto self development - why power and money aren’t inherently negative, just tools, and when used wisely, to great effect. (Examples include Julius Caesar and Donald Trump). We discuss taking 100% responsibility, ‘victim’ vs ‘survivor’ mentality, doing the hard work, allowing life to manifest in mysterious ways, and more. We didn’t even scratch the surface, and look forward to the recap - thank you, Ryan! If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
On today’s episode, (with updated/enhanced audio quality), myself and Nick discuss a lot of topics, including primarily our lessons and teachings for our future children. We also discuss the practices of self development, future of education, keeping your mind sane and active, learning to parent through pets and teaching in schools (MAYBE relevant - we will see), why it’s important to always do your best, and the “perfect” time to do something, is an illusion, only found in hindsight. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
California Fitness And Yoga is one of the biggest and most thriving fitness spaces in Saigon, Vietnam, and representative Lucy joins me to discuss fitness, sales, diet culture, life in Vietnam, the evolution over time, benefits of California Fitness, and more. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Jonas Thorsager is a movement practitioner, coach and teacher, helping people improve in movement, body and mind through movement and physicality. From Denmark, Jonas has been involved in movement his whole life, from gymnastics, slacklining to acrobatics, and has been in Vietnam since 2019, helping people to do the same and reach their potential.
We discuss expat life from Denmark to Vietnam, his movement background and journey, how to cultivate self discipline, the importance of small steps and habit forming, (cc: James Clear - Atomic Habits), benefits of teaching others, his key tips, intermittent fasting, and more. Thanks very much for your time, Jonas!
You can find out more at ‘Jonas Thorsager’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Leo HuynhTrinh is a businesswoman, entrepreneur, former general manager at ‘Broma Not A Bar’, in Saigon, founder of SinhTolina, and has worked avidly in marketing, business and hospitality. We discuss her upbringing from Nha Trang to pursuing her education in Saigon, traits required to be successful in business, how she moved into managing ‘Broma: Not A Bar’, the journey, challenges faced throughout her career, and we also discuss Vietnamese Women’s Day, with an empowering message to women of any background. Really enjoyed the conversation - thank you, Leo! 👌🎙
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Tuomas Tiilikainen, from Finland, joined me to discuss his experiences at the four day workshop of international self help guru, bestselling author and motivational speaker, Tony Robbins, in London 2018 - ‘Unleash The Power Within’. We also discuss his background in sales, negotiation, moving from Finland to Vietnam, the energy field at Robbins’ events, key lessons, and more. As a Tony Robbins fan I found this particularly fascinating! Thank you, Tuomas! If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Lea Lechtenberg is a business owner, podcaster, former coach/trainer, former HR developer, founder of ‘The StoryTree’ here in Saigon, Vietnam. We discuss her journey through education, business, coaching and more, challenges faced across her career in Germany and Vietnam, and experiences working alongside previous guest, Hugh Willbourn, on ‘The Power House’ here in Saigon. You can find out more about Lea at ‘The StoryTree’ on Facebook, and also ‘The Power House’ on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon)
Martin Pearce is the author of Spymaster: The Life of Britain's Most Decorated Cold War Spy and Head of MI6, Sir Maurice Oldfield, his uncle. Martin grew up in Derbyshire, receiving postcards from around the world from his mysterious uncle, Sir Maurice Oldfield, who turned out to be the real-life ‘M’. We discuss his book, Maurice’s journey, motivations, reasons for his success, differentiating between work and life, misconceptions of spy/espionage in comparison to James Bond, the book writing process, and more. You can find out more about the book ‘Spymaster’ on Amazon, and it’s been received well by the Times, Guardian, and Sunday Telegraph. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Anna Maria Blium is a Russian development specialist, HR trainer and expat in Vietnam, helping businesses and individuals develop and improve themselves. We discuss her background in Russia, the direct approach, getting things done, goal setting, challenges faced, experiences within development, and aims for the future. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ben Spring is a British actor currently living in Saigon, Vietnam, primarily based in theatre, and joins me to discuss life in theatre and the journey of being an actor. We discuss the evolution of an actor, studying it at university, dealing with “really getting into character”, dealing with feedback, rejections, tribulations and adversity within the profession, and also some key lessons, such as not burning your bridges, and always being an active listener. Really enjoyed this chat, thanks very much, Ben! If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Ricky Law grew up fluctuating between Canada and Hong Kong, where he decided to study psychology, understand our brain states, emotions and feelings, and monitor human behavior. We discuss Ricky’s own mental health experiences, struggling with demands of Asia life, challenges due to severe bullying, the importance of counseling, therapy, taking ownership of your situation, accepting your negative situations, techniques in dealing with them through meditation, and the benefits of living in Vietnam. I look forward to welcoming Ricky back for Round 2 in November! If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Trent Miles is initially from Melbourne, Australia, currently based near Vung Tau, Vietnam, having done a year stint in China. We discuss his upcoming animation projects, ‘Life Sucks’, with an event launching on YouTube on November 7th, his influences behind that, including South Park and Family Guy, traits required in the writing process, the importance of sitting back, detaching and observing, and his work. You can find out more about Trent at ‘Trent Miles’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Ariel Leon joins myself and Nick today to discuss primarily her religious and spiritual practices and experiences. We discuss the concept of God, his motives/beliefs, reasons behind her faith, spiritual experiences, coming back from suicidal states of mind, and more. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Sophie Tam is a French content creator, with her YouTube channel, ‘Tam Show’ exploring self discovery, lifestyle, spirituality and more in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, where she’s been based for four years. We discuss some of her lowest points, how she bounced back with manifestations, law of attraction, and diving into the content creation world of YouTube. Really enjoyed this conversation, thank you, Sophie! You can find out more about Sophie at @sophlimitless and @thetamshow on Instagram and ‘Tam Show’ on YouTube, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!) YouTube link here : https://youtube.com/channel/UCUKCG_GlWbGauDo3jBsS18g
Jeremy Long is the lead singer of ‘Coastal Connection’ here in Saigon, Vietnam, and appeared on the podcast before with his band, Episode 54 of ComebaCK and Episode 3 of ‘Cold Ones With Conor’, back in April. He’s since kickstarted his own podcast, ‘Soundscape Vietnam’, interviewing both Vietnamese locals and foreigners within the music scene, and a side project focused towards rap/soul, ‘Jezza’, alongside Coastal Connection. We discuss all of his projects here and more, including themes such as podcasting vs YouTube, why perfectionism is pointless, and uniting musical creatives in Saigon moving forward. You can find out more about his work and podcast at ‘Soundscape Vietnam’, and ‘Coastal Connection Band’ on all social media platforms and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Nargis, from Netherlands, joins Conor and Nick on ComebaCK to discuss spirituality, non dualism, the death of the ego, experiencing enlightenment, her non dualism journey, what’s next post enlightenment, challenges faced, how to stop seeking, and why everyone is enlightened. Really enjoyed the conversation! You can find out more about Nargis at @nonduality.memes on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Claudia Plocki is a Polish/Canadian, currently based in the beautiful mountainous area of Phan Rang, 4 hours outside of Saigon, Vietnam, and is a prolific artist. We discuss a range of themes in today’s episode - we begin by discussing expat life, navigating the duality of being Polish/Canadian, and living in the beauty of Phan Rang. We also discuss her art, how she maintains the discipline and focus to paint consistently, and her themes, aims and influences. Thank you, Claudia! You can find out more about Claudia at https://klaudiaplocka.Squarespace.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Anni Ma, initially from San Diego, is currently an expat in Saigon, Vietnam, involved in teaching, digital marketing, and public speaking, as part of ‘Toastmasters Saigon’. Anni has done several pursuits so far, and joins me today to discuss. We discussed her upbringing and getting into the acting sphere, relocating to Vietnam, her work, which consists of digital marketing remotely, teaching English, and developing her skills at ‘Toastmasters’, where she aspires to be a motivational speaker. As part of the show’s theme, we discuss challenges faced along the way, such as self belief, extroversion, managing energy, and persistence. Really enjoyed - thanks, Anni! If you enjoyed listening, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Tomas Fonseca is initially Portuguese, living in Vietnam, and has a background in marketing and currently the host of two podcasts himself, including one based on real estate. He’s also been heavily involved in developing charity organization in Vietnam, UPP Global.
We cover quite a few topics in today’s episode. We chat about expat life and travel, and Tomas’ experiences across Portugal, Budapest and Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. We also discuss his love and passion for football, alongside some of these podcasting journeys, and also what the future holds. A wide ranging conversation which I thoroughly enjoyed. Thank you, Tomas! You can find out more about Tomas at trip_in_wanderland on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Ngoc Nguyen is the author of ‘Weird Culture Kids’, a memoir about growing up in and between different cultures and experiencing the world through international lenses. It navigates her experiences in Vietnam, America and France, dealing with challenges faced, discovering identity and connection and more. In our conversation, we shed light on being immersed in multi cultures, dealing with isolating periods, and some perhaps misconceptions, or issues that third culture kids face, that perhaps we aren’t aware of. We discuss the book’s writing process, it’s therapeutic nature in connecting with multiple others with shared experiences, and more. It was a fascinating story and conversation that I haven’t been previously exposed to - Ngoc, thank you! You can find out more about Ngoc at www.weirdculturekids.com, and on Instagram at @weirdculturekids. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!).
Jagravi Singh is a student, blogger, podcaster, and activist on the Local Globe Organization, and has been based in Vietnam for a decade, being taught at several international schools. Recently, Jagravi made a podcast about the SDGs (Sustainable Development Goals) interviewing teachers, students, and organization leaders in Vietnam and around the world. Jagravi joins me today to promote the message that more people can learn about the SDGs and explain what can be done to make the world a better place. We discuss her background, international schooling, inspirations for activism, her work, advice on reducing inequality, and more. You can find out more about Jagravi at JagraviSingh2030 on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Noah Evens is the host of ‘PMA Path Podcast’, exploring a positive mental attitude, how to improve your life and situation with this approach, and navigating challenges. In this episode, we discuss podcasting, Noah’s journey over the years, coming back from challenges, becoming sober, and we also talk a lot about sports, specifically MMA and boxing, and also preview the Tyson Fury vs Deontay Wilder III fight. You can find out more about Noah at ‘PMA Path Podcast’ on Instagram and all streaming platforms, Apple, Spotify, Google, etc, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Kevin Rudolf is a singer/songwriter, rapper, record producer and musician from New York, currently based in Miami, probably best known for his 2008 single, ‘Let It Rock’, alongside ‘Lil Wayne’, which to this day has almost 50m views on YouTube.
Kevin has worked with the likes of Timbaland, Jay Sean, Lil Wayne and Flo Rida, rubbing shoulders with some of the biggest hip hop and pop artists of the last 20 years. We discuss his upbringing in music, from rock through to hip hop, the creative process behind his albums, working with excellent producers, and dealing with success, especially when your music is exploding everywhere. We also discuss the current music scene, challenges faced as a musician, and more. Thank you, Kevin! 🤘
If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Ahead of Tyson Fury vs Deontay Wilder III on October 9th, I explain why Tyson Fury influenced ComebaCK profoundly, why his come backs both in and out of the ring are so profound and inspiring from a charismatic champion in heavyweight boxing, a bit of detail into Fury’s journey 2018-2020, before dethroning Wilder, and prediction for the third fight. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Dutch Uncles are an indie pop band from Manchester, UK. They have released five albums, toured with bands such as Paramore, The FutureHeads, and Bombay Bicycle Club, and played an array of UK and European tours, including a slot at Glastonbury 2017, on the back of their fifth record, ‘Big Balloon’. In this episode, I chat to frontman Duncan Wallis, about the band’s history from college, choosing their sound/style away from typical Oasis/Roses Manchester vibes, touring with Paramore, challenges faced in terms of logistics, radio airplay and songwriting, finally playing Glastonbury in 2017, themes of their work, and their ‘Chips Of Chorlton’ podcast, based in Manchester, UK. Excellent insight into the journey of a band. Thank you, Duncan! Dutch Uncles are available on all streaming platforms, and their website ‘DutchUncles.co.uk’, and if you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
In this week’s book review, myself and Nick dissect Mark Manson’s international bestseller, ‘The Subtle Art Of Not Giving A Fck’, key themes, and why it’s important to choose exactly what to, and what not to, give a fck about. This follows on from our previous reviews - 1. The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari. 2. Man’s Search For Meaning. 3. The Four Agreements. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK on Instagram at @thecomebackwithck (Website coming soon!)
Ahead of next weekend’s heavyweight title fight, Domenico Baldwin from ‘Episode 43’ of ComebaCK joins me to preview and discuss the upcoming trilogy bout, Tyson Fury vs Deontay Wilder III. We discuss both previous fights, reasons for favoring Fury, Anthony Joshua’s recent loss to Usyk, characters in sport, and ultimate predictions, (Conor: Fury Round 5 KO, Dom: Fury on points). If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Ana Luiza is Brazilian, currently living in Ireland, and involved in her life coaching practice, which she cultivated in Da Nang, Vietnam. We discuss her practice, background, lessons learned, responsibility for change, and more. Really enjoyed. You can find out more about Ana at ‘Ana Luiza’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Declan Henry is an Irish author, published multiple articles and booklets, including a recent booklet on suicide prevention, and has published books on a variety of topics, including ‘Trans Voices’, ‘Voices Of Modern Islam’, ‘Forbidden Fruit - Life And Catholicism In Contemporary Ireland’, and ‘Young Refugees And Asylum Seekers - The Truth About Britain’. We discuss his background in Ireland, life in the UK, his academic and writing career, including the research and his entire writing process, work within the social care sector, challenges faced, and future aims. A very insightful and enjoyable podcast conversation. Thank you, Declan! You can find out more about Declan at ‘Declan Henry Author’ on Facebook and at www.DeclanHenry.co.uk and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Lani Hoang is Vietnamese born and raised, spent a lot of time in the center, Da Nang, and is currently based in Thailand. Lani has been very active throughout her life - as well as studying to be a tour guide, and having that as her occupation, she has also taught Vietnamese to foreigners, worked as a virtual assistant, and been a health coach at ‘Herbalife Nutrition’. We discuss her background, involvement in expat scene in Vietnam, traveling, challenges of her occupation, experiences with ‘Dork Dancing’ in Vietnam, future aims, and more. You can find out more about Lani at ‘Lani Hoang’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Daniel Alejandro is initially from Argentina currently living in Saigon, Vietnam, having previously spent time in Chile focusing on thought energy, healing, and farming. We discuss healing through mind and body, tarot, law of attraction, meditation, an array of languages, and more. You can find out more about Daniel and his work on Facebook and Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
In today’s episode I’m joined by Luis Zapiola from ‘Anesthestic Youth’, to discuss and dissect both of John Mayer’s albums, ‘Continuum’ and ‘Battle Studies’, in more detail. John Mayer is a singer/songwriter who has influenced Luis’ music and I’ve also thoroughly enjoyed, having seen in concert London 2017. Check out this album review! If you enjoy, you can find out more at ‘Anesthetic Youth’ on Instagram, Spotify and Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Hana Tran is a Vietnamese lady, completely in love with football, and coaches/manages/plays weekly, (before the pandemic), having grown up obsessed with the sport. Since 2015, she has regularly been involved in this capacity, and talks to me about football in Vietnam, social and psychological benefits, her competitive nature, what sport can teach us about personality, influences growing up, and more. Thoroughly enjoyed, Hana! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Nicolas Thanh is a coach for entrepreneurs at NicolasThanh.com, and a co host at ‘Creators In Saigon’ podcast. We discussed his upbringing in France, bringing business to Vietnam, starting up hostels here, (which were ranked no.1 for Ho Chi Minh City on TripAdvisor), challenges faced due to health, work/life balance and the pandemic, the future of entrepreneurship, finding balance, self development practices including atomic habits, and podcasting here in Saigon, alongside Dana and Tue-si. Pleasure, Nicolas! You can find out more about Nicolas at www.nicolasthanh.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Ethan Trang is internationally schooled here in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam, has performed guitar in his school’s ‘Got Talent’ version, citing Ed Sheeran and John Mayer as influences, and has also organized the charity volleyball tournament in Saigon, ‘Project Ace Of Hearts’, looking at raising funds for several organizations in Vietnam! Thanks a lot, Ethan! You can find out more about Ethan at ‘Ethan Trang’ on Instagram, and more information on ‘Project Ace of Hearts’, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Kiran Hessa is a Zumba practitioner from India, currently teaching and practicing in Vietnam, where she was voted ‘Fitness Best Asia, National Vietnam’, for her work. We discuss her work, favorite aspects, staying positive in lockdown, and more. You can find out more about Kiran at ‘Kiran Hessa’ on Instagram, Facebook and online, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Donovan Pham joined me for a wide ranging and enthralling conversation about his background in California, moving to Vietnam, falling into depression and bouncing back, and more about his work. These include his fitness journey, compounded with knowledge of diet and nutrition, and also behaviors and habits which keep his mindset sharp and top of his game. We dive in wholeheartedly, exploring gratitude, caring for yourself as if you were your own child, lessons from people such as James Clear and Jordan Peterson, training boxing, reasons he loves his work, and more. You can find out more about Donovan at @donovanmypham on Instagram and schedule appointments at Donovanmypham.as.me. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Evgenia (Jane) Kadrul is initially from Russia, currently living in Vietnam, where she works in psychosomatics, helping clients manage their anxieties limited beliefs and fears, which hold them back from achieving their potential. She discusses her background, work, how she became involved, and how her practice benefits her clients. You can find out more about Jane at ‘Evgenia Kadrul’ on Instagram and Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
‘The Four Agreements’, is a highly successful self development book by Don Miguel Ruiz, and myself and Nick cover it in our third book review, following on from ‘The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari’, and ‘Man’s Search For Meaning’. The four Agreements are as follows; 1. Be Impeccable With Your Word 2. Don’t take anything personally 3. Don’t make assumptions 4. Always Do Your Best. We dissect and further discuss the lessons behind these. If you enjoy, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Ramita Anand is the founder of Elevate.RA, an educational mentoring company dedicated to empowering young girls, especially those with challenges that inhibit their learning journey. By creating opportunities for pre-adolescent teen (9–13 yrs) girls to have the guidance, counsel, and dedication of an educational mentor can result in remarkable breakthroughs and set them up for long-term success. Elevate.RA works to move our girls from a fixed mindset thought process to practicing and living with a growth mindset where, even in a world full of difficulties, anything can happen. In this episode, we discuss Ramita’s teaching background, imparting the mindset and five superpowers (kindness, resilience, emotional intelligence, empathy and confidence), changing classroom culture, regulating social media, talking to our daughters both at home and in the classroom, and key messages behind her work. Thank you, Ramita! You can find out more at www.elevate-ra.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Jessica Emily is the founder of ‘Moonshot You’, based in Sydney, Australia, aiming to assist 10-18 year olds in improving and building resilience, and overcoming challenges. Jessica talks me through her entrepreneurial journey, self care practices, tips on cultivating a confidence mindset, overcoming her own challenges in personal life and business, and more. Fascinating conversation! You can find out more about ‘MoonShot You’ on Instagram, Youtube and via the website, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
James Karma, a Canadian living in Da Nang, Vietnam, joins me on ComebaCK to discuss expat life, challenges faced, his storied career in traveling and working abroad, and more. Really appreciated the chat! You can find out more about James at ‘James Karma’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon)
Alonna Le is initially from Wisconsin, USA and is focused on creative alignment through her artistry, where she has practiced art and design for numerous years alongside her travels and expat life in numerous locations, including Da Nang in Vietnam, Mexico, and elsewhere. We discuss creative projects, self development practices, importance of community, harnessing creativity, and more. You can find out more about Alonna at www.Alonnaleighartist.com and @alonna_leigh, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Myself and Nick follow on from our book number 1 discussion, (‘The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari’, by Robin Sharma), with number 2 - ‘Man’s Search For Meaning’, by Victor Frankl. This book, published in 1946, explores Frankl’s time and thought processes in the Auschwitz concentration camps, and demonstrates the power of meaning/purpose, being thankful for your suffering, and our human potential. It’s an astonishing read, I’d thoroughly encourage you to check out, and I hope that me and Nick did this book justice here. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon).
Paul Villanova is a basketball coach and stand up comedy performer in Hanoi, Vietnam, and joins me today to discuss his background in Australia, navigating various challenges faced, kickstarting his work in the comedy market, teaching, experiences of expat life, and more, in a thoroughly enjoyable and fun conversation. Thank you, Paul! You can find out more about Paul and his work at ‘Paul Villanova’ on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Mia Holmes is a personal trainer and BJJ practitioner who helps women become the strongest version of themselves whilst prioritizing their health. We discuss her background in figure competition, BJJ, expat life, and future aims. You can find out more about Mia at ‘Mia Holmes’ on Facebook and @mialphapussi on TikTok, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Jorge Esteban Caicedo is an advanced pranic healer and meditation teacher from Colombia. He has been practicing pranic healing for over 22 years and had a practice at the neurological clinic for 10 years, in which he applied techniques taught in PH for treating physical, mental and emotional illness. These techniques are mostly focused upon healing ourselves and others. He has applied them in his studies, company development and with professional athletes.
Jorge discusses his background in Colombia, oppositions to his practice from religion, his experiences growing up with this, primary benefits, dealing with sceptical views, what to expect from a session, and more. Thank you, Jorge! You can find out more about Jorge and his work at ‘Lockdown Warriors Vietnam’ on Facebook and ‘Jorge Caicedo’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Thuyen Vo is the founder of Easy English Vietnam and Easy Vietnamese - 2 language centers in Saigon. She is also the seasonal host at ‘Best Ever Food Review Show’, reaching over 3M views on YouTube, hosting episodes such as “10$ Challenge” for a day’s food challenge, and more, making it one of the popular food review channels on YouTube. Thuyen has a background in digital marketing alongside this, and discusses her move to Saigon, Vietnam, influences from mentors both in person and via the public domain, changing teaching classroom culture, GaryVee, the differences in the teaching realm vs the world of content creation, mental health experiences, key lessons, and more. A wide ranging and thoroughly enjoyable conversation with Thuyen. You can find out more on social media at ‘Easy English’ and ‘Easy Vietnamese’, ‘The Best Ever Food Review Show’ on YouTube, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Sasha is from YogaArt practice and ‘lockdown warriors Vietnam’ looking to teach yoga online during this difficult period.
Sasha is a yoga and yoga therapy teacher with over 500 hours of training and over 3000 hours of teaching experience in Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia and Russia, and has been teaching yoga to adults and kids since 2017. Her main focus is on safety through correct alignment and understanding the needs & abilities of each individual. She leads morning and some evening yoga, meditation & pranayama classes as well as workshops. In this interview we discuss her varied career as an expat, lockdown warriors, importance of yoga, and more. You can find out more about it at ‘lockdown warriors Vietnam’ on Facebook and Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Luis Zapiola from rock band, ‘Anesthetic Youth’, joins me today to review Green Day’s iconic ‘American Idiot’ album, upon it’s 17th anniversary. Luis previously appeared on episode 59, alongside his band mate Angelo, and TrashZilla. We discuss the longevity of this album, track by track reviews, the storyline associated, and more. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Ilya Levchenko is a Ukrainian drummer, currently living in Hanoi, Vietnam, having spent time in Belarus and China, and joins me today to discuss his career drumming and performing, speaking about influences such as Red Hot Chil Peppers, and more. Thank you, Ilya! You can find out more about his work on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Juliane Roces Pere is from the Philippines, currently living in Da Nang, Vietnam, and is immersed in a wide range of creative projects, including costume designing, fire, streaming and face/body painting artistry. You can find out more about her work on Instagram and Facebook under her name, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Niranjan Banka is initially from India, based in Vietnam, and is involved in the practices of breathwork and inner flow healing. We discuss these in more detail, and how to access self awareness. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Tuyen Võ is the host and creator of the "Dear Our Community" Podcast, and has a passion for connecting people through philanthropy, hoping to inspire the younger Vietnamese generation into creating positive changes & social impact. We discuss the mission behind both podcasts and philanthropy, education in Vietnam, and more. You can find out more about her work at ‘Dear Our Community’ podcast on social media platforms, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Viva Andrada O Flynn is a five time published author and writer from the Philippines, currently living in Gloucestershire, who writes about surviving, kindness, vulnerability, poetry and a whole range of topics. You can find out more about Viva at “Viva Andrada O Flynn” on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
François Bibonne is a Frenchman, who returned to Vietnam to create and produce a documentary ‘Once Upon A Bridge’, exploring classical music in Vietnam, the link between France and Vietnam, and much more alongside his journey. We discuss the process of documentary making, aims, future projects, the challenges faced due to CO-vid, beauty of Vietnam, and more. You can find out more about the project at ‘Once Upon A Bridge, Vietnam’ on Facebook, Instagram and YouTube, and also find out from François himself at ‘François‘ Bibonne’ on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Chris and Fiona are both British personal trainers living in Hanoi and are the founders of ‘The PT Hub’, looking at improving clients fitness, well-being and nutrition. We discuss their fitness backgrounds, journey in Vietnam, challenges faced, favorite aspects of fitness, misconceptions of body imagery in the industry, and the work they’ve been up to during 2021, especially their recent ‘burpees challenge’, which raised 110, 000, 000 VND for charities around Vietnam, including ‘Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation’, ‘Christina Noble Foundation’, and ‘The Blossom House’. Thank you to both Chris and Fiona for your time! You can find out more about their work at @_thepthub on Instagram, Chris - @clfitnessvn; Fiona - @fionat.clf. Check them out!
Axe from ‘Help Hanoi’s Homeless’ joins me to discuss homelessness, both his work starting up charities related to homelessness in Prague, Hanoi, Saigon and Adelaide, their mission, aims - a project related to volunteers providing education to others - Axe’s own personal experiences with homelessness, and how we can tackle the issue. A great conversation and one of which I thoroughly enjoyed. You can find out more about the projects on Facebook at ‘Help Saigon Homeless’, ‘Help Prague Homeless’, ‘Help Hanoi Homeless’ and more, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Becca Milward is based in Hai Phuong in the north of Vietnam, and creator of ‘Mango Studio’, looking to promote art, create a community and raise awareness for issues related to wildlife in Vietnam. You can find out more about Becca and her work at ‘The Mango Studio’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon)!
Me and Nick discuss some of the many concepts of wisdom that come from Robin Sharma’s fable and my favorite book, ‘The Monk Who Sold His Ferrari’. This also leads onto conversations about the self, non dualism, Victor Frankl, purpose and meaning, autonomy at work, and more. If you enjoyed this podcast, you can find out more at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Mary Nguyen joins the podcast to discuss numerology, the practice, how she began, and what our names and birthdays mean in discovering our life cycle, life’s purpose and meaning. Fascinating discussion - thank you for your time, Mary! If you enjoyed this episode, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Dr Elena Tyutyuma is a cosmetologist and massage therapist from Ukraine, currently living in Da Nang, Vietnam, and joins me today to guide us through advice and knowledge of our body, techniques to self massage, the importance of her work, and science behind massage therapy. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Jordan from ‘State Shifters’ joins me today to discuss shifting your emotional state, a series of self development techniques such as breathwork, cold water challenges, NLP, journaling and more, life in Australia, figures such as Eckhart Tolle, Dr Joe Dispenza, and Tony Robbins. We also discuss the State Shifters work that Jordan is up to with his brand and clients. You can find out more about Jordan at ‘State Shifters’ on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Nhi Mai is a VietKieu currently living in Saigon, Vietnam having being raised in Switzerland by her Vietnamese parents, and joins me to discuss her upbringing, discovering her identity, challenges faced, being multilingual, and her move back to Vietnam, becoming immersed in Vietnamese and Western communities. She also has her YouTube channel, ‘NowOrNhi’, which focuses on travel, culture, food and fashion, both in solo content and multilingual interviews. We discuss content creation alongside this, introversion vs extroversion, and more. You can find out more about Nhi at ‘NowOrNhi’ on Instagram, Facebook and YouTube, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Riho Tsuji is a Japanese American expat in Saigon, Vietnam, and since 2019, has experienced Vietnam from a different perspective than most expats when they arrive. Through her work in social impact and sustainability, she has seen first hand the current state of disadvantaged communities whilst working with orphanages and people with disabilities - including the lasting effects of Agent Orange. Riho discusses her experiences on this subject, from what she’s witnessed to what she’s learnt, and more. If you enjoyed this episode, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Karina Zima is a professionally trained actress and the founder of ‘Bravo Theatre’ here in Vietnam, having taught and studied in Italy, Romania (her home country), and the UK. We discuss her acting career, being trained at East 15 theatre school, misconceptions of actors, channeling nerves and excitement pre performance, channeling alter egos, living abroad, and her work with ‘Bravo Theatre Vietnam’, where she works at changing classroom culture at inspiring her students through model in action. Really blessed hour, thank you Karina! You can find out more about Bravo Theatre on Instagram and Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Dean Coulson is the founder of ‘Lean Warrior’, helping successful people regain balance of their life through achieving self mastery. He is a coach, writer and author, and heavily involved in martial arts, also training with world renowned martial arts instructor Geoff Thompson. Dean shares his love of fitness and nutrition in this episode, dives into the key lessons taken away from his martial arts journey and the mindset required, shares his knowledge and current work, and aims for the future. Really enjoyed this podcast. You can find out more about Dean at www.DeanCoulson.co.uk and dean_n_Coulson on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Julie Leonard is a Scottish coach and author who helps people uncover their limiting beliefs and mindsets to achieve their full potential. Julie went from an extremely shy, introverted youngster into a coach whose benefited the lives of over 1,000 people. We discuss her techniques in self development, taking responsibility, how important her practice is, her 30 years experience in health, psychology and coaching, and more. You can find out more about Julie at www.JulieLeonardcoaching.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Lecilia Du Toit joins me today to talk about her background in South Africa, Psytrance and her exposure to the sub genres, her time as an expat in Thailand and Vietnam, and thrill of playing live as a DJ. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Kim Kelly, a teacher of both English and Vietnamese, joins me today to discuss her background in teaching and creating art to channel her passion for social justice and mental health, primarily Vietnamese feminism and the concept of ‘losing your virginity’. We discuss her passion for activism, history of feminism in Vietnam, how we can improve attitudes, her work, challenges faced, and more. Great conversation, thanks Kim. You can find out more about Kim at ‘Kim Kelly’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Helen Uskovic, from Sydney, Australia, has done quite a lot in the self development space, from working with clients in improving mindset, resilience and responsibility through her coaching. Today she opens up on her comeback journey from the entertainment industry, suffering back pain and severely damaged eyesight. She talks about how she used gratitude, positive affirmations and manifestation to start living her dream life, and how she benefits clients today. She also shares what it’s like to meet David Goggins, who regularly features in podcast discussion on inspiration. Very excited for this interview to come out and excited for the next time! You can find out more about Helen at @hol_health and holhealth.com.au and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In episode 3 of Ronaldo’s return, and episode 3 with James Hammond from the ‘Winging It Travel Podcast’, we discuss Cristiano Ronaldo’s astonishing United reunion, and also Bolivia, a country I had no knowledge of, and James has a lot of experience with. This follows on from James’ appearances on Episodes 111 and 145 of ComebaCK, where we also discussed football and travel! You can find out more about James at ‘Winging It Travel Podcast’ on all streaming platforms and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon)
For the landmark 200th episode of ComebaCK, myself and Nick sit down for an hour long period of reflection and chatter. These topics include Vegas, American road trips, politics in specifically Peru, US and UK, Trump/Biden, the Peruvian version of Jerry Springer, having tough and uncomfortable conversations with others and ourselves, and more. Thank you to all who have supported the 200 episodes so far - more to come!
Philip Dao is the founder of ‘365 Degrees Pizza’ here in Thao Dien, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, having been raised in California, educated in Switzerland, and working in the healthcare industry on the side. We discuss setting up business in Vietnam, challenges faced, the great charity work that 365 have done for healthcare workers and others across the city during the pandemic, and more. You can find out more about 365 at @365degreespizza on Instagram and Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Rossi Happi is the founder of ‘Social Changemakers Network’ in Vietnam, an exclusive "Do Good.Feel Good.Live Good" networking platform. They are a group of social changemakers who wish to contribute to social good and create positive social impact. We discuss Rossi’s background, kickstarting this project, traits in change making, importance of selflessness, and future aims. They’re truly making the best of the situation in Vietnam and moving online to positive effect - congratulations to their team! You can find out more about their work on social media: https://linktr.ee/thesocialchangemakers and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Jessica Robson is the founder of ‘Run Talk Run’, a London based organization that incorporates mental health wellbeing conversation alongside running. In this episode, Jessica discusses challenges faced due to builimia, overcoming social anxiety through running, the community benefit of her organization, and future running aims.
You can find out more about Run Talk Run at www.runtalkrun.com and on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Matt Keenan initially came to Vietnam from New York over 50 years ago, having being drafted for the war, before returning home and adapting to civilian life. He discovered many years later that he had cancer, primarily caused by exposure to the infamous 'Agent Orange' chemical in the Vietnam War. In 2015, he returned to Da Nang, Vietnam to become immersed in the culture, meet the people, and discover the real Vietnam. He currently participates regularly at the 'Da Nang Agent Orange's Victim's Association', helping children currently still affected by Agent Orange. We discuss his war time and civilian experiences, dissect his return to Vietnam, explore how the effects of the war and Agent Orange are still prominent today, and discuss the work he does at the association, and why Vietnam as a whole is such a special country. For further information or enquiries, contact Matt at 'Matthew C F Keenan' on Facebook and 'Da Nang Agent Orange Victim Association' (DAVA) on Facebook, and for more information on ComebaCK, visit @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Zuzanna Kuhl is a Polish family mediator, coach, therapist, specializing in helping people understand the roles and influences of toxic parents in their life, based off her own experiences. She delves more into her own experiences, warning signs of toxic parenting, lessons in understanding and growth from both parental and children perspectives, and turning any setback into a positive. You can find out more about Zuzanna at zuzannakuhl.com and @surviving_toxic_parents on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck (Website coming soon!)
In the second episode dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo’s return to Manchester United, I chat to lifelong United fan and Mancunian Lee Moroney, whose also currently living in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. Firstly we discuss Ronaldo’s United legacy, his commercial reach, where he’ll fit at the club, the mayhem of last week’s transfer, and Lee’s memories of United growing up, including Keane, Solskjaer, Cantona and Ronaldo himself. Importantly, we also represent the flip side of the character, and address the 2018 rape allegations that have been leveled against Ronaldo, and how as male figures, we have a responsibility to listen and take seriously the voices of rape/assault survivors. Thank you to Lee for a broad chat today!
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ian Kresky is a bassist musician from USA, having played in both Thailand and Vietnam, and joins me today to discuss his music career across countries to date. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Sean Weir is the founder of ‘The Shaka Project’, uniting men to begin the conversation and broach the subject on mental health, encouraging mateship, connection and brotherhood, and is also an Australian personal trainer. #AllGoodBro. We discuss the reasons behind the Shaka Project, it’s importance in breaking down barriers and stigmas, Sean’s comeback from drug addiction and challenges faced, the clothing range that ‘The Shaka Project’, has incorporated, and future aims. You can find out more about the Shaka Project at @theshakaproject on all social media platforms and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Paul Dermody is a personal trainer from Ireland, having spent time in Vietnam, helping clients work out their goals with healthy and realistic mindsets. We discuss comparison culture, diet culture, thinking about your “why” whilst pursuing your goals, his interview with famous business coach Gary Vee, mindset, philosophy, lessons Paul gets across to his clients, and future aims. Really enjoyed this chat, thanks Paul! You can find out more at ‘pauldermodypt’ on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Michael Brosowski is an Australian activist, and the founder of the ‘Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation’, whose mission is to help children from crisis, rescuing children from sex trafficking, forced labour and slavery, and seek to provide education, shelter and employment.
In 2011 Brosowski was named one of that year's CNN heroes, and in 2012 was made a member of the Order of Australia, in recognition of his work defending the rights of Vietnamese children. He has lived in Vietnam since 2002, having previously taught in Australia.
We discuss the work that the Blue Dragon Children’s Foundation does, the feeling of rescuing trafficked children and returning to their families, the human elements of their work, their aims in their work, and what we can do to support the charity.
You can find out more at https://www.bluedragon.org. Please, if you can, support this wonderful cause.
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In this special episode, I dissect the recent extraordinary news of Cristiano Ronaldo finally returning to Manchester United and Old Trafford after leaving in 2009, and discuss why it’s so profound, both for nostalgia and for the club’s reinvigorated global stature, what Ronaldo brings at 36 years old, and why his ‘last dance’ is so poignant after his breakthrough period of 2006-2009 at Manchester United under Sir Alex Ferguson. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Robert Stubblefield is an inspiring and committed activist from USA with an extensive history of creating social change: in this conversation he discusses his career to date, the value of seeing events from oppressed perspectives, getting comfortable with being uncomfortable, resources to begin your education in supporting causes, with reference to ‘Black Lives Matter’, and more. It’s a genuinely fascinating interview, and I’m extremely grateful for Robert’s time. If you enjoyed, you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon)
Brenda Smith is an 87 year old grandmother who spent three months every year in Vietnam, assisting children for the ‘Christina Noble Children’s Foundation’, having originally arrived in 1995. Upon arriving in Vietnam, she struck a friendship with an orphan, ‘Minh An’, born with a rare skin condition which leaves his skin extremely flaky, hence his name ‘fish boy’, ‘ca’ in Vietnamese. Brenda and Minh Anh have a special friendship, and Vietnam has a special place in her heart. Absolute pleasure to chat today. Disclaimer: The audio isn’t the best, but it doesn’t shadow the content quality. You can find out more by watching the documentary at: https://youtu.be/xb3abI2S_q4
Arturo Campos joins me and Nick today to discuss the early years in Virginia and Peru, and then dives into lessons from the military. These tips include understanding human psychology and behavior, delving into an alter ego/turning off the switch, adjusting and readjusting to civilian life, why kindness in the environment is important, the thrills and challenges involved, and more. Thank you, Arturo! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Cynthia Figueroa pops onto the podcast today to discuss mental health, EMDR therapy and it's use/benefits in evolving relationships with herself and others, and elaborates on astrology. Pleasure, Cynthia - thank you!
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Nanako Hida is a yoga Asana instructor from Japan, currently living in Saigon, having extensively traveled, living in places such as New Zealand, Spain, Singapore and India, where she spent the beginning, and large majority of this 2020 pandemic. We discuss her work, career, physical and mental benefits of her practice, future aims, and more. You can find out more about Nanako at @go.with.nana and @yoga.with.nana on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon).
Chris McBride is the founder of 'The Workshop Da Nang', having lived in Da Nang, Vietnam for seven years, and we go into more detail about his creative background, reasons for kickstarting a collective community creation hub, benefits of such a wide range of influences, challenges faced due to the on-going pandemic situation in Vietnam, and future aims.
You can find out more about Chris at 'The Workshop Da Nang' on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon).
On today’s Cold Ones myself and Nick are joined by Zeyad El Sayed to talk traveling trips, around Vietnam, Egypt, Europe and more, and dissecting movies and life. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Dr. Hugh Willbourn has worked in a range of fields from hypnosis, psychotherapy, academia, theatre, dance and negotiation consultancy. He is a best-selling author alongside celebrity self help guide Paul McKenna of books that have sold more than 3 million copies. With over 15 years of experience in practical psychotherapy in London, Dr. Hugh Willbourn has successfully led over a hundred workshops in negotiation, qualitative research, therapeutic and authentic storytelling, amongst many more themes.
Hugh currently resides in Vietnam, having initially come from the UK. In this wide ranging episode, we discuss the lengthy career of Hugh to date, including how his work has always come back to the practices of storytelling and problem solving. We also cover;
⁃ Why you should truly enjoy your work ⁃ More detail on the hypnotic trance effects that we all unconsciously enter ⁃ Why negotiations are a lot more successful than arguments and why they’re so important ⁃ Issues with our current education system ⁃ His upcoming “Power House” online workshop, focused on improving viral negotiation skills during this pandemic.
You can find out more about Hugh at www.hughwillbourn.com. Hugh's psychological training can be found at www.thepowerhouseclass.com.
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
(PS: Apologies for the slight technical issues in this episode)
Ilse Zoerb came to Saigon in 2016 following Donald Trump’s election in her country America, and has been involved in numerous creative projects in the city since. These include movement classes, stand up comedy, theatre, voice work, and drag - where she performs as a Drag King, ‘Colonel Hai Minh’. We discuss the unorthodox but especially fun creative methods in her voice and movement workshops, the effort and beauty of seeing friends blossom whilst performing drag, life as an expat in Vietnam, facing our fears, and channeling our social skills via Zoom in the strictest Saigon lockdown to date. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Cydny Voicechovski is an American expat, ex professional dancer and business owner, the content creator behind ‘Where In Hanoi’, and has collaborated with Dana from WhereInHCMC to create ‘WhereBusinessesGrow’ looking to assist more small/local businesses. We discuss her life in Hanoi and current projects, and also go back into her former careers as a dancer and business owner. For tips on Hanoi, Vietnam experiences and help/support of your local business, both listen to this episode and follow ‘Where In Hanoi’ and ‘Where Businesses Grow’ on social media, and primarily Instagram. You can also find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Eric George joins me and Nick to throw out some topics, and shares his gratitude for the country, people and experience of Vietnam which helped him overcome challenges in his own life. Birmingham, (both US & UK cities), get dissected, Kung-fu, spiritual practices and meditation all feature. P.S. Apologies for the technical issues in the recording of this episode. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Surabhi Jaiswar is an artist, dreamer and traveler, working at ‘Healing With Arts Da Nang’, having previously developed artistic passions in her home country India, through photography and videography. She is also organizing three upcoming workshop/retreats, with all proceeds going to three different charities around Da Nang, Vietnam.
In this conversation we go through:
⁃ Art through colours. Dissecting each colour and what it represents from an artistic sense. ⁃ Navigating her way out of early years desires for external acceptance. ⁃ Flow state, and the process of how to access this state. ⁃ Discovering your inner child, and having lots of fun through your creative journey. ⁃ The seven chakras chanting meditations, which Surabhi hosts every Thursday.
Really enjoyed this. You can find out more about Surabhi and her projects at ‘Healing With Arts Da Nang’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon).
Corey Fryer, or otherwise known as ‘Uncle Corey”, is from USA, currently living in Vietnam, and joins myself and Nick to discuss lessons from his life.
These stories include a middle class upbringing, being married three times, running into Barack Obama, (pre presidency), and a voyage to Vietnam.
Themes and lessons include trusting your gut, how to be self sufficient, controlling a machismo attitude, the importance of asking questions if you don’t know the answer, don’t make assumptions, and looking out for each other.
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Andrew Kilduff is one of the co founders of ‘Stretford End Flags’, a Manchester United fan group aiming to improve the atmosphere by placing flags across the Stretford End at Old Trafford stadium. Banners include United’s three European cups, Ryan Giggs, Sir Matt Busby, and more. We discuss differences in going to the match in the 1980’s vs today, challenges of the pandemic for football supporters, the work that SEF does in improving the club atmosphere and how to fundraise/contribute towards this, and aims for the future. You can find out more about their work at ‘Stretford End Flags’ on Facebook and Twitter - Twitter is @sef_mufc. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Nguyễn Trí Hiếu is a Vietnamese hospitality student, blogging under ‘The Hospitable Hanoian’, with an extensive background in Switzerland, Dubai, Vietnam and the US in the industry, before his imminent move to Las Vegas, and the ex president of the Hanoi Speakers Toastmasters.
We discuss his roles both in hospitality and communication in public speaking with Toastmasters and interacting with clients. He shares the key values and lessons he has learned from his life so far, and the value of service to others which guides him in continuing his hospitality career in the near future. A wide ranging interview packed with stories and knowledge. Thank you, Hiểu.
You can find out more about Hiếu at ‘The Hospitable Hanoian’ on Wordpress and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Tyler Rose is an American multi disciplinary artist, ranging from spoken word poetry, visual artistry, a musical exploration, and creating events, including a four week workshop currently based on bringing creative communities together and raising money for charities in Vietnam - Da Nang Go and Blue Dragons Children’s Foundation. In a wide ranging interview, we discuss her multiple creative endeavors, exploring both themes of joy and suffering and channeling them artistically, importance of a community feeling, expat life, and future aims. Really enjoyed this chat, thank you to Tyler. You can find out more about Tyler’s work at www.tylerrosemann.com or @tylerrosepoems on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Sonya Firsova is a model, actress, singer and musician from Russia, currently living in Hanoi, Vietnam, having spent time living abroad in Hong Kong and London. We discuss her variety of roles, self care practices, challenges faced in music and modelling, cultural differences in Asia between Hong Kong and Vietnam, and great concluding advice on “enjoying the process” and going “step by step”. Thank you, Sonya! You can find out more about Sonya at @sonyafirst on Instagram and TikTok, and ‘Sisters First’ on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Jesica Ledesma is an Argentinian currently teaching online in Thailand as part of her (TEFL) certification, teaching English as a foreign language, where she recently documented her experiences for the TEFL ‘Student Stories’ website. She also spent seven years as an expat in Dubai. We discuss her career so far, challenges of teaching and living abroad whilst immersing in another language and culture, benefits of teaching, advice for moving and becoming an expat, her future aims surrounding her yoga practice, and more. You can find out more about Jesica at jesi.ledes on Instagram (where you can also find her TEFL article - if you’re interested in traveling abroad), and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Giang Chu is looking to promote the lifestyle of veganism in her home Vietnam, having been influenced by the lifestyle in the Western world, in both Germany and Belgium. Giang has aspirations to create her own food blog and cookbook to share her vegan recipes, which are both Westernized and Vietnamese. We discuss the main benefits of her lifestyle change, misconceptions of veganism, and challenges being vegan in Vietnam, often renowned for its meat based dishes. You can find out more about Giang on Facebook and Instagram at ‘Giang Chu’ and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ross Mcgagh is from the football mad city of Manchester, and the founder of ‘Manchester Football Therapy’, looking at collecting people together to share stories regarding mental health and to use football as a beneficial outlet. We discuss the ideas behind the project, Ross’ own experiences with mental health, and the value of football. You can find out more at ‘Manchester Football Therapy’ on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Linh An is a dancer/choreographer from Hanoi, Vietnam whose choreographies are influenced by Theatre jazz style dance. She is the co founder of ‘Theatre Dance Vietnam’, aiming to build a community platform for those looking to immerse themselves and experience theatre jazz dance.
We discuss her background studying and performing in New York and London, her current projects, keeping up with mainstream trends as an artist, and discuss both dance and Hanoi in more detail.
You can find out more about Theatre Dance Vietnam on Instagram and Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Great virtual catch up with my friend Nick about life. Covering the hectic Saigon storm, exploring the mindsets of Fredrick Douglas, Nelson Mandela, David Goggins and Jim Carrey, bits of non dualism, Peru’s cuisine and football scene, and lockdown life. Looking forward to the next one in person. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. Also, Nick appeared on episodes 73 and 80, so feel free to listen to those episodes for more content.
Johan Falck is an actor, voiceover artist, drama teacher, teacher of communications, founder of ‘Da Nang 101’, ‘Da Nang Improv Society’, and ‘Da Nang Drama Society’.
We discuss his upbringing from a countryside in South Africa, his love of acting and drama, his experiences in Da Nang, Vietnam both in teaching and promoting creative projects, and future aims. Throughout the conversation we discuss themes such as manifestation, fulfillment in entertainment, and bringing a community together.
You can find out more about Johan and his work at ‘Da Nang 101’ on Facebook, where all Da Nang creative projects are promoted, and ‘Da Nang Improv’ and ‘Da Nang Drama Society’ on Facebook also. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Ethan Levy is the founder of ‘Dork Dancing’ in Da Nang, a community using dance expression to promote better mental health and raise awareness, without fear of judgement or stigma. We discuss the ideas behind it, the originality of the concept, and getting people dancing, pumped and exhilarated online despite the ongoing Vietnam lockdowns. Great work, Ethan 🙏
You can find out more about Ethan and ‘Dork Dancing’ at social media on Instagram and Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Clive Pendock is a musician from Cape Town, South Africa, currently living in Da Nang, Vietnam (which is paradise), after spending time living and touring in Thailand, Cambodia, Laos, Malaysia and Southern Vietnam. We discuss his musical background, which include prior influences, themes on his songwriting, performing in Vietnam and Asia, and future projects, which include an upcoming album, which I’m very excited for. Thank you, Clive!
You can find out more about Clive at ‘Clive Musician’ on Facebook, also featured on ‘Da Nang 101’, and you can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Felicity Paige is a musician currently living in Saigon, having spent time up in Hanoi, and being initially from the United States. Felicity is currently the youngest guest (by a distance!) to ever appear on ComebaCK. We discuss her musical influences, projects, themes and work today - you can find out more about Felicity at “Felicity Paige” on YouTube, where she has her original material, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Serena Horton is a UK life coach, having spent 18 months teaching English in Thailand in 2013, which she’s documented on the official TEFL website, under ‘Student Stories’. We discuss her reasonings for moving abroad, tips for anybody looking to do so, and the overall cultural experience of living in Thailand. We also discuss her practice of life coaching. You can find out more about Serena at www.SerenaLinzi.com and @serenalinziwellbeing on Instagram.
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Caleb Lee is the corporate fitness manager here at ‘UPFIT’ in Vietnam. Hailing from Ohio, Caleb discusses challenges in his early life with depression and how he was initially inspired to develop his health and fitness. We then delve into trait required for improving our fitness practice, techniques required to succeed, themes such as self sabotage, and the mission of ‘UPFIT’, which has an extraordinary retention rate amongst clients. Huge thanks, Caleb! You can find out more about Caleb at ‘Caleb Lee’ on Facebook and ‘UPFIT’ on www.UPFIT.com.vn.
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Gryz Dross, from USA, has been involved in various creative projects in her career so far - acting, theatre, stagehand and voiceovers - and also plenty of traveling, including Europe and Asia, where she currently lives in Hanoi, Vietnam. We discuss challenges of going through various creative endeavors in many different places, dealing with feedback, her creative career to date, and aims for the future. You can find out more about her on her Facebook page ‘Gryz Dross’ and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Andrew Greenway is a project development champion for ANDYSMANCLUB. ANDYSMANCLUB are a Men’s Mental Health Charity, offering free-to-attend talking groups for men and challenging the stigmas around male mental health. They started off as one group in the small, northern town of Halifax, and now have over 55 groups, and still growing, across the UK.
Andy first started using ANDYSMANCLUB in Feb 2017, being a stereotypical bloke and choosing the chin up, chest out attitude as a defense mechanism for many years. Andy was advised to go along by a family member and since the first session noticed a huge difference in himself in being more open.
We discuss the power of shared connections in this space, reducing the stigma, messages behind the charity, and aims for expansion in the future. You can find out more at www.andysmanclub.co.uk and more on Instagram/Facebook/Twitter, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Mike Tatarski is a journalist, and editor in chief of ‘Saigoneer’, having lived in Saigon, Vietnam since 2010, focusing on lifestyle and happenings in the city. He has also written for Al Jazeera, The Atlantic, The Guardian and the Washington Post.
We discuss his journalism career so far, challenges faced from reporting in Vietnam, the mass transformation of Saigon that has happened in a decade, and more. Pleasure, Mike! You can find out more about Mike at @miketatarski on Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Alan Williams is a coach from Sligo, Ireland, helping people struggling with weight loss into both losing weight and gaining confidence, whilst creating a life that they love without restrictions.
In today’s episode we discuss the mindset shifts required into losing weight and achieving personal goals, creating a new identity where healthy living isn’t a sacrifice, not being too attached to the scales and taking the small incremental steps to a goal, why the best way of facing your fears is to jump right into it, and why finding something you love is the first step into building self confidence.
As an online coach and speaker, Alan discusses both of his practices with me in more detail, how he overcame early introversion and shyness to promote his work out there, his gratitude for the breaks he’s received in his career, and his aims to help as many clients as possible.
You can find out more about Alan at ‘Alan Williams Coaching’ on Instagram and Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Bryn Morgan works as a drama therapist for ‘The Jacob Abraham Foundation’, set up in 2015, following Jacob Abraham’s passing by suicide. The foundation aims to help prevent suicide through direct intervention with vulnerable people, raise awareness on mental health/suicide issues, promote positive mental health and support people bereaved through suicide in South Wales.
They provide intervention, prevention and postvention support for people struggling with suicidal thoughts, or been affected by suicide.
Bryn discusses why it’s important to abolish the stigma and taboo, particularly amongst young men, the work the charity is involved in, and some knowledge nuggets towards the end into research surrounding death, staying rooted/grounded in his practice, and advice for anybody looking at getting involved in this profession, why it’s important to look after yourself fundamentally.
You can find out more about the foundation on social media at @jacobabrahamdoundation and www.jacobsfoundation.org.uk and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Joanne Freeman is a counsellor, mindfulness coach and stress management consultant from the UK.
In today’s episode we discuss her background in mental health and seeking therapy, (empathetic nature and emotionally distant relationships), and her work today, where she deals with numerous clients through techniques such as breath work and mindfulness. Joanne also compiled a host of very interesting resources for those seeking support, in both book and podcast form. Thank you, Joanne!
You can find out more about Joanne at www.joannefreeman.co.uk and @joannefreeman on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Lydia Miron is a mindset and empowerment coach from UK, and the founder of “boost boxes” and “woo week” - both concepts designed for people to increase self love and impact/empower their circles around them.
Lydia expands upon her “rebel mindset” of living her authentic self, shares the importance of traveling, the reasons behind her work, and why it’s important to expose children as young as 8 into these realms of self development. Thanks a lot, Lydia!
You can find out more about Lydia and her work at @_the_rebel_mindset on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Sarah Clayton Lea is an Irish expat and the founder of ‘Big 7 Travel’. Currently living in Saigon, Vietnam, having lived in Gran Canaria, New York and Thailand, Sarah has worked in hospitality, journalism and now founded this Travel media company, ‘Big7travel’.
We discuss the reasons behind founding ‘Big7’, (which has been featured in Forbes and Business Insider), work it does in identifying key spots to eat/drink/visit in a large array of cities worldwide, challenges faced due to the pandemic, and aims for the future.
You can find out more at www.bigseventravel.com and on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Megan Aderouane is a growth coach from USA, at ‘More Than A Desk’, and the host of ‘A Storie To Share’ podcast.
We discuss her background working abroad both in West Africa and Saigon, Vietnam, where themes such as minimalism and gratitude come up, and inspiration behind the podcast, sharing stories amongst us. We also discuss her growth coaching practice - what does it mean to grow, the key ingredients involved, finding the “how” rather than the “what”, in personal development, and the vital yet overlooked skill of listening.
Thoroughly enjoyed! You can find out more about Megan and her work at www.more thanadesk.net and www.aStorietoshare.com, and on social media under those handles, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Thomas Kopec is from MySafetyNet.info.
MySafetyNet is a proof of identity solution for every parent concerned about their children's' safety when surfing the web. Their medallion identity proof system is a major step forward toward preventing predatory abduction by strangers masquerading as 'friends' on the Internet.
MySafetyNet goes beyond algorithmic software that relies solely upon pattern recognition to detect threats. They use a patented dual-layered protection and validation system that is anchored to Student and Federal or State ID numbers to validate every profile. After successful validation, each registered child is issued a MySafetyNet badge, which is the authenticated proof of identification that is then used for all Internet interaction.
You can find out more about their work at www.MySafetyNet.info and also across all social media platforms. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon).
Lloyd Roodt is a South African and founder of the ‘Community Food Garden’ project, having begun in April 2020 as the pandemic hit big time. We discuss his reasoning behind the project, farming benefits for life, feelings in seeing crops yield and grow over time, future aims, importance and value of the practice for the local community and beyond, and gratitude for the food on our plates. You can find out more at ‘Community Food Garden’ on Facebook and Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Nicole Moehring is the Founder of Voices of Change 2018 (VOC), a nonprofit organization. Their mission is to reduce the risk of sexual abuse for children with disabilities. Nicole’s daughter and son, who is autistic, were both victims of sexual abuse and assault. Nicole witnessed the differences in the justice system of how her daughter was believed and treated so well, and her son was not. Nicole quickly began to realize how difficult the road to justice is for an individual with a disability. VOC was founded to educate families so no other family would ever feel as Nicole and her family did.
Nicole is a first-time author of “Finding Myself – Overcoming Abuse, Heartbreak and Loss Then, Finding True Love” and currently writing her second book, “Finding My Voice.”
She serves on the Ohio Attorney General Committee for Crime Victims with Disabilities. In 2021, Nicole received the Crucial Point Award, an annual award given to people and organizations that delve beyond the surface of sex crimes to focus on overlooked niches of survivorship, bringing these specific topics to mainstream platforms to increase public awareness and effectively drive social change. Nicole is working with legislators to change current and pass new laws to enforce stronger policies and best practices for child abuse reporting and how cases are being processed. You can find out more at www.voicesofchange2018.org and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Damien Cole is a Saigon expat initially from San Francisco, USA, and has lived in Vietnam for five years. He’s done plenty of work in that time - competing in MMA, teaching basketball, writing movies, and hosting ‘XLT Podcast’ for expats, locals and travelers. We discuss all of these here, and why often it’s crucial just to dive into expat life. You can find out more about Damien and the podcast at ‘Damien Cole’ or ‘XLT PODCAST’ on all social media and YouTube, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (Website coming soon!)
Shing Chan is the founder of ‘Paperbacks Saigon’, here in Vietnam, looking at shipping out custom books and English books for customers. We talk about his background in Vietnam and UK, importance and value of reading, and more. You can find out more about Paperbacks at ‘Paperbacks Saigon’ on Instagram and social media, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
James Hammond is the host of the travel podcast, ‘Winging It’, based in Vancouver, and is making his second appearance on ComebaCK, having previously appeared on Episode 111, ‘Football and Travel’ on the eve of England vs Italy Euro 2020 final, (less said about that the better).
We again delve into the topics of football and travel, but go deep on specific areas - Lionel Messi and his next move post Barcelona, and life as an expat in Australia, primarily Melbourne.
In terms of the football, we also discuss other high profile transfers (Ramos, Kane, Grealish, Mbappe). In terms of travel, James recounts more of his Australian experiences and insights into Brisbane, Adelaide, Perth and Sydney too.
You can find out more at ‘Winging It’ podcast on all streaming platforms and Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!!)
Luc Loewen is a rap artist, initially from Canada, and currently living as an expat in Hanoi, Vietnam.
We discuss a range of topics related to his musical experiences so far, with the primary theme being “just do it”, related to any creative endeavor when you start out. We discuss anxiety, challenges faced, the portfolio Luc currently has, including his appearance on Shadylanes’ track, ‘The Confines Of Everything’ (s/o, Episode 100), life in Vietnam, and future aims.
You can find Luc at ‘Nuce music’ on all social media platforms and his Youtube channel for music videos.
Tony Fornaro is an American currently living as an expat here in Saigon, Vietnam, where he’s done a variety of work, including cooywriting, voiceovers, dog walking volunteering, and emulating an inspiration, Anthony Bourdain, by hosting three cooking and food review shows.
We discuss his travel background, decision to begin his adventures aged 32, experiences in the vibrant city of Saigon so far, and future aims. You can find out more about Tony at anth_meatballs on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon).
Phi Dang is a life coach from Sydney, Australia, host of ‘Grow Through It With Phi Dang’ podcast, and is back, having made her first ComebaCK appearance on Episode 28. Phi also was my first ever ComebaCK interview in August 2020, under @inhervitality, after her page went viral for promoting men’s mental health week, as a woman. (Kudos, Phi 👊👊).
Phi elaborates on her practice in this episode, including her time in Australia since our February podcast, and we thoroughly discuss manifestation, awareness, LOA, learning/unlearning our conditioned beliefs, and future aims in group coaching.
You can find out more about Phi and her work at @thephidang on Instagram.
Tricia Nguyen is from Saigon and through the projects of art, music, theatre, dance and movement, looks to express mental health awareness in a creative manner. We discuss the core themes of raising awareness behind her work, particularly Vietnamese attitudes, the creative projects that she’s involved with, challenges due to Co-vid, and her background having spent 11 years schooled in Fleetwood, UK. Great to chat and thank you, Tricia! You can find out more about Tricia at “Tricia Nguyen “, primarily on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon!)
Will Everett is an NLP Master Practitioner, CBT Coach, Clinical Hypnotherapist, , Mental Health 1stAider, and Positive Mindset Coach. Hailing from the South of England, Will uses his experience and knowledge of these various practices to help his clients overcome limiting blocks, beliefs, phobias and traumas. We discuss his practice in some detail related to the areas above, and explore how you can change your life by reframing negative beliefs into positive ones. Much appreciated, Will! You can find out more about Will at @willlifecoachpt on Instagram, which links to all his businesses, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (website coming soon!)
Dana Bradley is a brand and marketing consultant, running 'Where in HCMC', curating and sharing lifestyle, culture, events, small businesses and more from the world of Ho Chi Minh City/Saigon, Vietnam. We discuss her work, the aims and project of 'WhereinHCMC', collaborations, her background and work both in Brooklyn and London, and the beauty of Saigon - the vibrancy, the diversity, the food scene, and more. Pleasure Dana, thank you so much for this opportunity. You can find out more at @whereinhcmc on Instagram, where it's primarily based, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Website coming soon - stay tuned!)
Mai Nguyen currently works in the fitness industry at California fitness here in Saigon, Vietnam. Initially from Da Lat, we discuss her fitness journey, work, mental health attitudes in Vietnam, advice to beginner, benefits of cardio/weights/yoga, and more. You can find out more at www.californiafitness.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram, (website coming soon!)
Lara Rosales is an Argentinian lady currently climbing the PR ladder in Florida, USA, and is the host of the podcast ‘Cats, Milfs And Lesbian Things’. We discuss life in Latino countries, the Florida lifestyle, reasons for climbing into PR, sexuality, focus of the podcast, and a hint on future writing projects. You can find out more about Lara and her podcast at ‘Cats, Milfs And Lesbian Things’ on all streaming platforms and www.otterpr.com. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (website coming soon!)
Thomas Noyer is a multi-instrumentalist musician from France, currently living in Saigon, Vietnam, and joins me today to expand upon his jazz music and career up to date in depth. You can find out more at 'Thomas Noyer', on Facebook and Youtube, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram (website also coming soon - stay tuned!)
Indy Laville is a French/Vietnamese musician, currently living in Saigon, where he has played music as a full time job since 2015. His current projects include 'Saigon Soul Revival', exploring themes of late 60's Saigon (The Vietnam War era), and 'Moon Rise City'. We discuss both of these projects and his background, influences and more. You can find out more about 'Saigon Soul Revival', and 'Moon Rise City', and 'Indy Laville', all on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. (Although website coming soon - stay tuned!)
Prinyaka Mehta is an artist and artist designer working in Saigon on a multi-range of creative projects. We discuss her work, practice, background, life in both countries, work with 'Genderfunk', a successful community based project in Saigon, and future aims. You can find out more about Priyanka at @meta_pri on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram - (although changes coming soon, more information to come!)
Professor Damian Hughes is an international speaker and author. He has a practical and academic background within sport, organisational development and change psychology.
He also co hosts the ‘ High Performance Podcast’ alongside BT sport presenter Jake Humphrey, interviewing a range of elite performers from sport, business and beyond. Guests include Jonny Wilkinson, Matthew McConaughey, Tim Peake, Rio Ferdinand, Sir Chris Hoy and Gareth Southgate.
Damian’s body of work include ‘The Barcelona Way’, ‘How to think like Sir Alex Ferguson’, ‘Liquid Thinking’, and ‘How to Change Absolutely Anything’.
We discuss his background of work in academia, including liquid (flexible) thinking, the key ingredients to the winning cultures at clubs such as Barcelona and Manchester United, and lessons from the high performance guests, which include taking full responsibility, learning and reflecting from failure, and whether or not anybody can be a high achiever.
As a long time fan of the podcast, it was an absolute privilege - thanks very much, Damian!
You can find out more about Damian at www.liquidthinker.com, ‘High Performance Podcast’ on all streaming platforms where you access podcasts, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
John Gerard Fagan is a writer, initially from Scotland, and is the author of his memoir 'Fish Town', chronicling his experience of living in Japan for six years between 2013-2019. We discuss his background in Scotland, creative writing, reasons for moving to Japan, and the challenges faced through undertaking that journey, including advice for anybody looking to teach in Asia, particularly Japan. We also discuss the volume of short stories which John will be looking to publish in the upcoming months. Keep up the great work, John! You can find out more at www.johngerardfagan.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Brent Trotter is a blogger and mental health advocate from Victoria, Australia, running the account 'The Black Dog Community'. We dive into drug use, societal attitudes towards mental health and how they can change, the importance of a fitness routine, and aims for the future. You can find out more about Brent at black_dog_community on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ricky from 'The Gay Narratives Podcast' joins me for Episode 130 to discuss his podcast, key themes, ultimate core mission, and future aims. We also challenge sexuality assumptions, discuss 'the coming out process', and talk about how we can challenge societal attitudes towards the LGBTQ community. You can find out more at 'The Gay Narratives Podcast', on all streaming platforms and Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Aidan Martin is an author from Scotland - his first memoir, 'Euphoric Recall', encounters themes such as drug addiction, suicide, mental health and more - we dive wholeheartedly into all of these themes, and we talk about his comeback journey, future aims, importance of creativity, the fulfillment vs pleasure, and what more can be done to handle the drugs crisis. It is a very inspiring comeback story and I was very fortunate to hear it on today's show. You can find out more about Aidan at www.aidanmartinauthor.com and more about ComebaCk at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Madeleine Black is a podcaster, patron of 'Say Women' charity, activist, 2X TedX Speaker, and author of 'Unbroken', which documents her story. Madeleine was raped aged 13, and suffered a lot afterwards - she delves into the immediate aftermath of the attack, problems faced as a result, and how she has used her journey to heal, and her story to help and inspire others, through her book 'Unbroken', her podcast 'Unbroken With MB', and her speaking. Madeleine's strength, courage and story of forgiveness and healing is truly admirable, and I'd encourage you to check this out. You can find out Madeleine's catalogue of work and her story at www.madeleineblack.co.uk and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Erica Schlick is a life coach, author, and glutens-free recipes creator, running the popular 'The Trail To Health' blog, run out of Los Angeles. Her cookbook 'Wandering Plate', is a 28-day plan of healthy paleo travel-inspired recipes that helped her stay healthy after years suffering from Lyme Disease. She has been featured on numerous TV segments, including 'Afflicted', on Netflix, Episode 4. We discuss the comeback from Lyme Disease, how vital her diet and nutrition was in her recovery, her book and blog, and future aims. You can find out more at www.thetrailtohealth.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Rob Shevlin is the host of the 'In This Life Podcast', aiming to spread awareness of different people's stories, based in Dublin, Ireland. Topics include hate crime, stalking survivors and an interview with Ireland's first same sex married couple. We discuss in depth the six fascinating stories that Robb has had access to so far, thoughts behind starting a podcast and delving deeper into the practice, and future aims. Really enjoyable conversation and essential for aspiring podcasters! Thanks very much, Robb! You can access the podcast at @inthislifepodcast both on Instagram and all podcast streaming platforms, and find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
England Block 109 is a supporters group who are seeking to improve the atmosphere at Wembley, by organizing coach travel and fundraising draws. I talk to Kunal about England's experiences abroad, traveling home and away for the matches, the recent tournament, and their projects, including their beer 'Wembeerly', raising money for grassroots football. You can find out more at block109.co.uk and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
JayaSanker is a travelling certified lyengar yoga teacher, with experience teaching yoga at all levels, having began at 16 years old. He joins me to discuss the benefits of his practice both physical and mental, experiences teaching in Thailand, Malaysia and Vietnam, and more. You can find out more about JayaSankar at 'JayaSankar Yoga', on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Joe Casserley has been a DJ in Manchester for 36 years, works with organisations such as Sale Sharks and Manchester United, and is the host of 'The Full Irish' show on Facebook live, aiming to unite Irish musicians together. We discuss his Irish background in Manchester, reasons for kickstarting 'The Full Irish', aims for the future, and more. You can find the Full Irish on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Jen Dixon is a musician from the North East of England, has released several singles, and has been played on 'John Kennedy' and 'BBC Introducing Music'. We discuss her live performances, career so far, mix of genres, and more. You can find out more at @jendixonmusic on all streaming platforms, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Olivia Farmer is a wellness professional and lifestyle coach from South Africa. We discuss the benefits of challenges of her practice and its importance. You can find out more on Facebook at 'Olivia Farmer', and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Steve Silvers is initially from Sheffield, UK, before spending ten years serving as a monk in India through the 90's. He subsequently moved to California, then Oregon, and is now working as a Brazilian jiu-jitsu (BJJ) instructor. We naturally discuss expat life, lessons learnt from his spiritual journey in India, the art, practice and lessons that BJJ can offer, and as we're both Manchester United and England fans, we even discuss a bit of football. Fascinating hour, and I enjoyed every minute.
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Chris Devoize is initially from France and has been living as an expat in Saigon, Vietnam, where he organised 'The Lakes Races', for multiple Vietnamese orphanages, and runs all around Vietnam. We also discuss his background as a semi-pro tennis player, and the experiences of running a triathalon/Ironman race. Great work, Chris and thank you for your time. You can find out more at 'The Lakes Races', on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Delighted to interview one of the co hosts of ‘Creators In Saigon’ and coach, Tue-Si Nguyen, in a very open and powerful conversation about mental health and addiction. Having lost his mother at an early age, Tue-Si battled addiction, including a two year crystal meth problem from 2017-2019. He’s bounced back to become a podcast host and coach - and shares all the highs and lows here. For anybody struggling with mental health and addiction, this is a powerful and inspiring story about the comeback. Congratulations on your work, Tue-Si, and thank you for being so honest! You can find out more at @creatorsinsaigon on Instagram and @tuesi, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Angelica Galluzzo is a Canadian student of psychology and the host of 'The Revolutionized Mind Podcast', looking to spread awareness and insight into a variety of topics linked to mental health. We go from her soccer scholarship, time in USA, techniques to manage mental health, the darkest points, how she made a comeback, aims behind 'Revolutionized Mind Podcast', and aims for the future, both personally and professionally. Thank you, Angelica! You can find out more about Angelica at 'Revolutionized Mind Podcast', on all streaming platforms, and on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Maude Berardelli is the business development manager of WineCellarVn here in Saigon, Vietnam, distributing wine to restaurants and bars, catering to expat needs. Initially hailing from Montreal, Quebec, Maude has worked in F&B for many years, coming up to 4 in Saigon. We discuss her background in the hospitality industry, challenges due to CO-VID, reasons to love F&B, and more. You can find out more about Maude at @maudeberardelli on Facebook and Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Dennis Relojo-Howell is the founder of Psychreg and the Editor-In-Chief of Psychreg Journal Of Psychology (PJP). He sits on the editorials board of international peer-reviewed journals. His research interests encompass blog psychology, cyber psychology and mental health. Psychreg empowers people by publishing mental health stories, conducting interviews, and hosting events. We discuss the background and current aims of Psychreg, in terms of blogging, journaling, and on Youtube, it's value and importance in dealing with and promoting mental health, and aims for the future. You can find out more about Psychreg at www.psychreg.org and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK welcomes Dani from 'This Village Girl Podcast', and 'Virtual Besties', a Filipino currently living and working in Germany. We discuss challenges faced with mental health, her blogging and podcasting, and also the benefits of detoxing. You can find out more about Dani and her work at @thisvillagegirl on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Today I was joined by British expat living in Saigon, David Delves, and we had a great conversation about the theatre business, including previous projects in London and Southend, work in Saigon, and more. Thanks a lot, David! You can find out more at Facebook 'Dragonfly Vietnam', and 'DragonFly Theatre Education', and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In a unique episode of ComebaCK, today’s “guest” is host Conor, covering the upcoming Euro 2020 final for England against Italy, where finally....finally.... it might come home. Let’s see. Touching upon the unity Gareth Southgate has provided since his cultural reboot upon appointment in 2016, (especially in comparison to the Prime Minister), the strength of players such as Sterling, Kane, Pickford, Henderson and more, the major disappointments against Portugal, Iceland and Germany, and why maybe this year is different. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
James Hammond, host of the travel podcast, 'Winging It', joins me to discuss firstly, football, with England's upcoming Euro 2020 final against Italy, sharing her experiences watching England at major tournaments, Euro 2012 in Ukraine, World Cup 2014 in Brazil, and Euro 2016 in France. We discuss memories of this England side over the years, particularly painful misses against Argentina in 1998 and Portugal in 2006, whilst also giving (confident) predictions about the final.
We discuss his experiences traveling and his podcast travel, where he interviews a wide variety of guests about their experiences, why it's important for development, and opportunities available. We talk about Vietnam in depth, as it's also where I'm currently based, and also a few other spots, including Australia, New Zealand, Canada, Ecuador and more.
Really top conversation! You can find out more about James and his travel journeys on jameshammond.org/wingingitpodcast and @jameshammondtravel on Instagram and Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Today I'm joined by Matt Wallace, a Scottish musician, soon approaching eight years here in Vietnam, both in Hanoi and Saigon. We discuss his music journey to date, current projects in and around the city, challenges due to the pandemic, musical influences, and future aims, all in songwriting, covering, or performing. You can find out more about Matt at @mattwallace.music on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK welcomes Cava, a Vietnamese lady determined to make a difference with her brand new charity project, 'From Saigon To Saigon', which aims to benefit and raise awareness and donations for those badly affected from the Covid restrictions here in Saigon, including street vendors and physical labourers. We discuss everthing to do with this week old organisation - keep striving, Cava! You can find out more about the project at 'From Saigon To Saigon', on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
With football (perhaps) coming home, and England in their first major final in 55 years since the much heralded 1966 triumph, I talk to Josh Bean, an England fan who will be one of the 60,000 (extremely fortunate) supporters in Wembley on Sunday, for the final against Italy. We discuss following England, predictions for the match, past tournament heartbreaks, and more. Come on England.
Linzi Meaden joins me today to discuss her projects. Linzi lost her only sibling, Stuart, to suicide on 14 June 2020. She has since made it her mission to make it more globally acceptable for those left behind by suicide to grieve more openly, and for suicide to be spoken about more openly without outdated stigmas and unkind beliefs. Her book, 'What Suicide Left Behind: Navigating Your Own Grief Journey', captures the insight and rawness into the shock of suicide, and how she got through the aftermath, with the funeral, inquest, etc. Linzi shares her tips and resources from her background working in mental health, to navigate the grieving process for herself and others. Linzi, an enormous thank you for your time. You can find out more at Amazon, Instagram and www.paradisium.co.uk.
ComebaCK chats to Gregory Dolezal, the founder of ‘Ology Vietnam’, and we discuss more about the education and aims for the company in the future, as well as Greg’s background in Laos, Thailand and Vietnam. You can find out more about Ology on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats to co host of 'Pod Across The Pond' podcast, Erin Huebscher, an American currently living in Germany, having previously lived in London, Stockholm and New York City. We discuss copywriting, expat life, podcasting, Germany and more! Thanks so much, Erin, much appreciated! You can find out more at @podacrossthepond and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Bradley Opatz is an American currently living in Vietnam, having previously practiced Buddhism and showcased his religious studies in Thailand and beyond. Fascinating chat with Bradley, please check it out! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats to Wes Jackson, CEO at Omega Digital and Coaching, an American, currently based in Vietnam, and we discuss all things related to his business and project. Thanks Wes! You can find out more at 'Omega Digital', on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Really enjoyed chatting to Jon Keeling about his music project 'The First Street Belief'. The conversation varies on all things musical, and was an absolutely fascinating insight into everything music related, including Greece, Vietnam, the confidence of self promotion, and more. Thanks a lot Jon! You can find out more about the First Street Belief on Instagram, Facebook, and Youtube!
To kick off the next 100, on episode 101, I chat to an extraordinary lady in Dana Drahos, host of the 'Creators in Saigon' podcast, and a women's nutritionist and hormal health consultant. We discuss everything from nutrition, hormonal health, her podcast, background in USA and Vietnam, and more. Dana has been a huge influence on kickstarting ComebaCK, so I thank her enormously. You can find out more at 'Creators in Saigon' podcast on all streaming platforms, and more about ComebaCK the same way, and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
For the landmark century, I interviewed SHADYLANES, Rowan Nelsen and Nache Chan, about their career in music and in SHADYLANES, including a discussion about their astonishingly powerful and authentic new single and video, 'The Confines Of Everything'. You can find out more about 'SHADYLANES' on Instagram, Facebook and Youtube, and more about Comeback at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats to Asiria Halverson about a Mexican/American upbringing, challenges with mental health and numerous career changes, aims for the future and tips for dealing with anxiety. Really enjoyed this, thank you Asiria! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Great to catch up with an old friend Kayleigh Tayler about festivals, Isle Of Wight, Birmingham, Brighton, and football. Kayleigh also discusses several challenges faced and how she's used her fitness journey to keep positive and uplifted. You can find out more about Kayleigh's journey at @kt_fit95 on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
More Than Vaginas Podcast is a podcast based in NYC by three women from different backgrounds navigating the world, discussing topics such as love, money, relationships and mental health and shedding light on feminist issues. Momo, Theresa, Varnessa - (MTV - More Than Vaginas), thanks so much for your time - I cant wait for the next one. You can find out more at 'More Than Vaginas Podcast', on both Spotify and Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In this podcast with Mike Garry, we focus on the importance and value of expressing our language through poetry. In a truly illuminating conversation, where Mike also kindly reads two poems aloud, we get into a whole range of discussion points about the importance of reading and language, his work with thousands of kids a year, and finding empathy, knowledge and understanding through poetry. I'd imagine this will stick with me for a while - thanks for your time Mike! Listen here!
Mike Garry was a librarian for 15 years before becoming a poet. Mike became a “Champion Reader” recognized for his work in promoting reading to young people. His poetry career began when he started to read his poems to the hundreds of young people he worked with during study sessions. They loved what they heard and encouraged him to perform at live poetry events and Slams, which he did, instantly winning prizes throughout the UK. Mike started performing his poems in Prisons, Young Offenders units, Mental Health Hospitals, Children’s Homes and local pubs. Shaun Ryder of Happy Mondays recently described Mike’s poetry as “The best street poetry I’ve ever heard” and iconic designer Peter Saville described Mikes as a “genius” He was Poet in Residence at Strangeways Prison, and has works closely with Manchester United, the BBC, The Barclays Premier league, Manchester Museum of Science and Industry, Manchester Art Gallery and works at literature festivals throughout the world.
Cold Ones With Conor Episode 6 is with two friends I met at Isle Of Wight and Glastonbury festivals volunteering through Festaff, Warren Bingham- Roberts and Beth Hieron-Coles. We discuss all things related to festivals, including our highlights and disappointments (acts wise), predictions and wishes for Glastonbury's 50th anniversary, and importantly - why you should volunteer a festival alone. Controversial topics include camping near Conor (don't), and whether or not Robbie Williams deserves a 'legend's slot', at Glastonbury on the Sunday. Thanks very much Warren and Beth - looking forward to doing this in person with a few (not so) cold ones at Glastonbury 2022 (fingers crossed). You can check out more about Festaff at www.festaff.co.uk and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Evelini Quarrell is a Brazilian journalist and host of ‘The Foreign Mums Podcast’, currently living in London, England alongside her husband. Her podcast explores life as a foreign mother in the UK for both her and her guests, with women from all over the world sharing their stories. We discuss her life, background, challenges faced and evolution of her work. You can find out more about the podcast at ‘The Foreign Mums Podcast’ on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK discusses music with Japanese musician, composer and beatmaker, RYUBeats. We discuss his various of musical influences from time in bands, time around the London music scene, making beats and composing in Japan, advice to aspiring musicians, and more. You can find out more about RyUBeats on Instagram, Tiktok and Twitter, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Stewart Gatsi is an independent singer/songwriter, recording artist, educator, and author. Born in Harare Zimbabwe, his experiences across more than fifteen countries have played a key role in shaping his outlook. In 2019 Stewart officially released his first fully professional recorded musical project, the seven-track E.P, Songs On My Bike. Born in Zimbabwe and currently based in Ho Chi Minh City, his first book Rough Guide To Planet Earth is the first in a series of books chronicling his tumultuous twenty-year journey across four continents. It chronicles his adventures and misadventures starting out in Zimbabwe, then subsequently migrating to the U.S, Cyprus, Dubai, and ultimately a return to Zimbabwe after almost a decade of living abroad. Ensuing events eventually lead to him traveling yet again, with experiences taking him through South Africa, Vietnam, Singapore, Cambodia, Hong Kong and Malaysia. You can find out more about Stewart at 'Stewart Gatsi' on Youtube, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Brad Burton is the UK's no.1 business speaker, #1 best-selling business book author on Amazon, and founder of 4Networking, a business networking company that holds up to 5000 events in the UK per year. Brad, described as 'The Northern Tony Robbins', describes challenges including being shot in Salford, Manchester, pandemic challenges, authenticity of motivational speaking, why self belief and internal happiness are the ultimate superpowers, how he grabbed the title of 'No.1 British motivational business speaker in the UK', and more. You can find out more about Brad at www.bradburton.biz and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Dang NGO is a Vietnamese musician, a multi instrumentalist equipped at drums, piano and guitar - he can play solo and in a band. We discuss musical scenes and influences, challenges pursuing this profession in Vietnam, the scene itself, working with Calum Scott, and why teaching music is as important as creating it. Really enjoyed this. You can find out more about Dang NGO on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Ngonguyen.haidang1996, Humorous Anticipators De Art, Ology Professional Development and Staffing, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Ella Beth is a jazz singer from Australia who has been based in Hanoi/Saigon, Vietnam since 2012, including an appearance on ‘The Voice Vietnam’ in 2019, where she was the show’s first foreign female competitor and made it all the way to the finals. We discuss her journey in music so far, lifestyle in these two cities of Vietnam, current projects, advice for aspiring musicians, and future aims. Loved this, Ella, thank you! You can find out more about Ella at Ella Beth Music on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats to Kain Foley, a bass player and musician from England, currently living in Saigon, Vietnam. We discuss his projects so far, work in the future, experiences in music and life, including the challenges faced with a collapsed lung. Cheers Kain. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats to Camille, a tattoo artist here in Saigon, about her practice in France, Thailand, Vietnam and everything to do with being a tattoo artist. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Philip McKernan is an inspirational speaker, author, filmmaker and founder of the 'One Last Talk' movement, who works with entrepeneurs, business leaders, sports stars and billionaires all over the world, helping people to seek clarity about their future and navigate through mental roadblocks. We discuss being true to your authentic self, why EVERYBODY has their 'One Last Talk', why contextualising trauma is a classic mistake, why it's important to accept yourself and confront your story head on rather than hiding, the beauty of Ireland, and the insight into the power of 'One Last Talk'. Philip is an astonishing figure with huge experience in personal transformation and self development, and so upon discovering his work whilst delving through the 'London Real' archives, it was a pleasure to have this conversation today. You can find out more about Philip and One Last Talk at www.philipmckernan.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Simon Riddell is a wet plate collodion artist, using photography to explore mental health thoughts, emotions and states of mind. We discuss his background from attempting to join the forces, diagnosis with diabetes, challenges faced, getting up to productivity during the pandemic, themes he explores within his photography, and more. You can find out more about Simon and his work at @mentalcollodion on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Max Kelly is today’s guest, here to discuss several topics, including travel - having gone around the entire of South America, and challenges, due to being diagnosed with asperger syndrome. Max has a very upbeat and positive demeanor and I really enjoyed recording! You can find out more about Max and his travels at and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Helena Aksamit is an ex professional ballet dancer/teacher, and currently lives in Saigon, Vietnam, having extensively traveled Montenegro, Poland and Hungary in her youth. She opens up about the ballet profession, expat life both in China and Vietnam, and what life is like living with Conor 👀 . You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Frank Sinclair is the Chief Encouragement Officer for Dream Again LLC, coaching businesses with a concentration on entrepeneurs. Frank discusses previous challenges - self sabotage, alcoholism, homelessness - and how he bounced back, the techniques he uses with himself and clients today, and the focus of his current work. Congratulations Frank - and keep up the great work! You can find out more about Frank and his story at dreamagainllc.com, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Liv Knight Music is a DJ and musician from the UK, from Essex currently living in Bristol. She is a DJ, having previously transitioned from a classical music upbringing, and joins me today to talk all things music, including the environment too, and how music and wellness can align together. You can find out more about Liv at livknight.vibecast.com and @liv_knightmusic on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
In a very different episode of ComebaCK, I’m joined by guest #73 from #5 ‘Cold Ones With Conor’, Nick Cabrejos, making his comeback on comeback and his solo debut - and we go all in on non dualism and beyond. It’s the first time I’ve really spoken in length about myself on the journey so far. We discuss non dualism, ego, the chimp paradox, escapism, observing our thoughts, not taking ANYTHING personally, the concept of one’s self, awareness/consciousness, and where do we find fulfillment...so yeah, quite a range. This was a very fun chat, out of my usual realm, and I loved partaking - Nick, thanks a lot brother. You’re on your way to becoming my ‘Eddie Bravo/Joey Diaz’ figure. Please check it out, it’s a fascinating conversation with a lot of twists and turns. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats to David Hardy, a yoga teacher and mixed media artist from Sunshine Coast Australia. We discuss the benefits of yoga from various different standpoints, David's workshops, transition from practice into teaching, creative projects, and aims for the future. Thanks very much David, hope to hang out in Australia one day! You can find more about David at @unleash_mofo on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck.
ComebaCK discusses life both in Norway and Thailand with Vilde Sofie Martinsen - great to chat Vilde, congrats on your podcast debut! You can find out more at @vildesofieem on Instagram and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Natalie Vecchione is an author, podcast host and FASD (Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder), advocate, here to talk about everything FASD, including what it is, the impact her son's condition has had on her and her family's life, the aims of raising awareness through her podcast, book, and beyond. You can find out more about Natalie at @fasdhope on Instagram and www.fasdhope.com, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Candice Colgan moved from the Philippines to Melbourne, Australia at 13 years old, completely solo - before then settling in Manchester, UK, many years later. Along the way, she's trained in law, and as a trauma recovery coach, helping clients overcome their previous pain through a variety of techniques. Candice also recounts setbacks she's faced in her life, including racial abuse, an assault/attack aged 19, transitioning from country to country, near death experiences, and how she's been able to bounce back. It's a powerful conversation with a driven and inspired lady - Candice, thank you for your time, you're always welcome back once I return to Manchester. You can find out more about Candice at @hurtrecoverycoach on Instagram and www.hurtrecoverycoach.com, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Con Dao Island is one of the hidden gems of Vietnam, which has only gained tourist attention and prominence within the last decade. It's more authentic, refreshing and clean in comparison to popular destinations such as Nha Trang, Mui Ne and Phu Quoc. It's full of untouched beaches which you can experience all for yourself. In this interview with tour guide 'Kitty', under 'TripswithKitty', she discusses the beauty and wonder of Con Dao, comparison with life in the big city of Ho Chi Minh, and challenges of the tourism sector due to the ongoing pandemic in Vietnam and beyond. You can find out more about Kitty at @tripswithkitty on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Geoff Thompson is a BAFTA winning filmmaker, screenwriter, martial arts instructor, author of 50 books, and 15 of his short films are multi-award winning. He was sexually abused by his karate instructor aged 12, which left him disillusioned and afraid. In this epsiode, we discuss the impact of that ordeal, how he used a fear pyramid concept to systematically dissolve his fears, how working on yourself is the ultimate aim, with references to Eckhart Tolle, and more about Geoff's life. Stories range from how he used creativity and the power of the pen to change his life, experiences working on the nightclub doors as a bouncer in Coventry, and ultimately an encounter with his abuser many many years later - in a tale of forgiveness and universal law. After listening to Geoff on 'London Real', and 'The Magic Minds Podcast', it hugely inspired me, and I'm extremely grateful for this conversation. I highly recommend that you check this out. (PS. Wifi in Vietnam has been really dodgy - my apologies for the glitches throughout, and especially after 67 minutes! I wrap things up. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Such a brilliant ‘Cold Ones’ episode with Nick Cabrejos and Max Callahan, both from Virginia, US, currently living as expats in Saigon, Vietnam. We talk about expat life, challenges faced in upbringing, esoteric subjects such as ‘The Power Of Now - Eckhart Tolle’, teaching abroad, being in touch with the pain body, responding to criticism, asperger syndrome, and more. Very impressed with how honest and open these gentlemen were. Absolute pleasure. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK discusses expat life with Tuovi Wallen, whose moved country to Switzerland, Qatar, Nepal and Vietnam, continually working in the education sector. We discuss expat life, education, challenges faced, the beauty of Finland, and more. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK has a wicked chat with JK Hobson, an American expat in Vietnam, about a wide range of topics - New York, LA, working in a casino (witnessing some extraordinary elation and despair from gamblers), life on the road in the band ‘Crisis’, comedy, Buddhism (including morning chanting), and Vietnam. This chat was awesome - thank you JK! You can find ‘JK Hobson’ on Facebook and Instagram and more about ComebaCK at www.the comebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK has a very wide ranging interview about the teaching profession with teacher and counselor Phillip Wenturine. Previously from a journalism background (like myself), Phillip (initially from USA), has combined the two in teaching, both in Europe and Asia, and is now a counselor here in Saigon, Vietnam, guiding students with their career choices and giving them the ideas of exploring teaching abroad. It was brilliant to sit down and have a conversation about the benefits of the teaching life, and I was really grateful for Phillip’s time. You can find out more about Phillip at www.phillipwrites.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK welcomes back Ridley from episode 50. In the first episode we discussed martial arts, Manchester, background in Hartlepool and adventures living as an expat in Thailand and Vietnam. In this episode, we discuss his love and passion for teaching, how teaching is combined with martial arts as educator vs student, rewards of the teaching profession, aims for the future, with plans both in England and Thailand. You can find out more about Ridley at @muaynameisridley on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on the same platform.
ComebaCK talks about fitness and business in Saigon, Vietnam with Walter Veale, a personal trainer and bodybuilder currently here with Fit Nation Vietnam and Saigon Sports Club. We discuss the differences in starting businesses as an expat in Singapore, Vietnam and America, advice on getting into fitness and sports, and aims for the future. You can find out more about Walter and his business at @walter.Viking and @saigonsportsclub on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats to Jourdan Lee, one of the founders of 'One Million Lives', a fundraising organisation aimed at improving social care in Vietnam. We discuss her background both in Vietnam and the United States, how the organisation is looking to promote education, welfare and support for those affected by poverty and facing a disadvantage, and the upcoming fundraising events they have here in Saigon. Jourdan is definitely a welcome guest. You can find out more at 'One Million Lives', on both Facebook and Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK chats to DJ, writer and broadcaster Dave Haslam, who DJ'ed over 450 times at the famous Hacienda nightclub in Manchester and has since DJ'd worldwide. He has written for the New Musical Express, The Guardian, The Times, and has written five books. We discuss his career, life in music, expand on the Manchester music scene, a sabaticcal in Paris, and more. You can find out more about Dave at www.davehaslam.com, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats to Niall Mackay, host of the ‘Seven Million Bikes’ podcast and events company here in Saigon, Vietnam. Topics covered include his fundraising charity work, comedy career, teaching, including stories from Australia, New Zealand, the pandemic, and more. Really fun conversation with a lot to take away. It’s also the two year anniversary of ‘Seven Million Bikes’, so extra special to have the chat today. Thanks Niall! You can find out more about Seven Million Bikes on both Facebook and Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK catches up with my university friend Will Saxton, from Sheffield, about a range of topics, primarily young fatherhood, as he discusses having a child at 23, the same week of submitting a dissertation and having a final university exam! We also talk about his time volunteering for ICS in Sierra Leone, NCS work back in Sheffield, and lessons from both. A really smooth, easy going and insightful catch up, which should resonate with most, especially those becoming a parent for the first time, at such a young age! Cheers for the chat, Will! You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com. (PS - Apologies for the slight technical issues in the first 10 minutes!)
Adrien Doan is a hypnotherapist from France currently living as an expat in Saigon, Vietnam. We discuss a wide range of questions and themes within the hypnotherapy practice. These include an explanation of how we’re often in trance from our subconscious mind anyway, misconceptions of hypnosis, the actual processes, (including techniques such as EMDR), how hypnotherapy can cure past trauma and alcohol abuse, and the benefits of the practice, even for those who are sceptical.
This has been a topic that has fascinated me for two years or so, and I really appreciated Adrien taking the time to have this conversation. You can find out more about his work at “Saigon Hypnotherapy “ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
ComebaCK welcomes back guest #36, Violetta Mansurova, to expand on her experiences in the modeling industry from Russia, China, Thailand and Vietnam. We elaborate on model misconceptions and myths, her female role models, aims at expanding modeling in Asia from a business perspective, and the three core traits into being a model. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats to Dom Terry, an Australian tattoo artist currently living in Saigon, Vietnam. We talk about his ten year career, challenges in his work both technically and from a business perspective, the difficulties of the tourism sector shutdown on his work, advice for aspiring artists, aims for the future and more. A great conversation if tattoo artistry or anything similar is something you’re considering! You can find out more about Dom at @domterrytattoo and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Liliana Nguyen, previously from Episode 2 of ComebaCK, comes back on (the first guest to reappear), to discuss tarot cards, including my own reading, and the concept of asexuality, which we touched upon last episode. You can find out more about Liliana at @therinajournal on Spotify and Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Cold Ones With Conor is with three musicians currently living in Vietnam - Angelo Silva, Nate Newman and Luis Zapiola. We talk about their experiences in the music industry, All Mixed Up/Trashzilla/Anesthetic Youth, touring in Vietnam and more. Pleasure gents! You can find out more about the guys at @anestheticyouth, @trashzilla_horrorcore and @luiszapiolaa on Instagram.
Jacqui Hurley is an Irish athlete, sports broadcaster and chat show host for RTE, having previously played at the highest level in both basketball and camogie. She is the co presenter of Sunday Sport on RTE Radio 1 and presents the sports news on RTE Television. She has recently written her book, ‘Girls Play Too’, aiming to promote women in sport.
We discuss her background and love of sport, why it is important that the landscape is changing regarding female participation, the evolution of playing sports into the media, and her experiences covering two Olympic Games. We also discuss the low points - Jacqui lost her brother Sean at 25 in a tragic accident, and her family uniting to honor his bucket list. We also discussed the injuries of her sporting career and how that affected her.
You can find out more about Jacqui at @jacquihurley7 on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Lin Nguyen works and lives at the bee farm on Phu Quoc island, Vietnam. We talk about the importance of the farm, in which she was introduced by her teacher, the workshops and education that she’s looking to provide, and why bees are so absolutely essential to human survival. You can find out more about Lin and her project at www.phu Quocbeefarm.vn and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Pham Tra My is a Vietnamese mother currently training martial arts and working in Hanoi. We talk about an abusive marriage at 22, having a child so young, her outlet and hobbies, mainly martial arts, and how they introduce her to communities in different areas of Vietnam, from Phu Quoc to Nha Trang. You can find out more about My at @myoimy on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Hanna Larsen is initially from Chicago, currently living as an expat in Vietnam, where she works on holistic health, helping her clients both from a nutritional and psychological perspective (the mind body connection). We discuss her practice, the range of diets available, experiences dealing with Vietnamese and Westerners, and aims for the future. You can find out more about Hanna at @healingwithhanna_ on Instagram and www.healingwithHanna.com and more about ComebaCK at www.the comebackwithck.Wordpress.com and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Cold Ones With Conor Episode 3 segment of ComebaCK is a group discussion with Coastal Connection, a band out here in Saigon, Vietnam, consisting of Jeremy Long, Jordan Harkin, Holland Chadwick and Abhijeet Sanyal. We discuss their group, music videos, singles and background in music, aims for the future here in Vietnam, and as it’s “cold ones”, and the cold ones were cold, we strayed into other areas of conversation. Great chat with these gentleman and they’re welcome back in a few weeks time. You can find out more about the band and the members at “Coastal Connection” on Facebook and Youtube, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
Camila Muñoz is a board game designer from Chile, who in 2018, upon losing her job and consequently having some down time, started creating projects in this industry. Cami aims to create board games that are simultaneously politically engaging, educational, fun, and a pathway into creating debate on such topics. We also discuss being female in this industry, challenges faced in recruiting characters to reflect reality in the game, and advice for aspiring designers. You can find out more about Camila at https://www.sobremesajuegos.cl/ or @sobremesajuegos on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at www.the comebackwithck.Wordpress.com and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Tommy Fleming is an Irish singer. Tommy, described as “The Voice of Ireland”, has established himself as a solo artist and has been around for almost 30 years, singing both old and contemporary Irish music. Tommy has toured extensively throughout the UK, Ireland, America, Australia and the Netherlands, and has 3.5m album sales worldwide.
In this interview, Tommy is open and honest about both the highlights and lowlights in his career . High points include excellent musical success, including performing at Sydney Opera House, and playing with icons such as Kenny Rogers and Phil Coulter, huge album sales, and an autobiography. Setbacks include a near fatal car crash which left him with a broken neck, losing both his parents of natural causes on the exact same day, and a court case where he was awarded damages for “infringement of intellectual property rights of which they are the owners". Thoroughly enjoyed this conversation. You can find out more about Tommy at www.tommyfleming.net and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
I had a chat with Kirk Ramsden, a guy initially from Leeds, UK, but now currently living as an expat in Saigon, Vietnam, where he is performing stand up comedy. We talk all things comedy, influences, material, the adrenaline of such events, and more! You can find out more about Kirk at “Kirk Ramsden” on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
My 50th interview is with Ridley, a man initially from the UK, currently living as an expat in Vietnam. In our hour long conversation, we discuss diabetes, mental health, experiences in Manchester, Thailand and Vietnam, grief and loss, how martial arts was the catalyst for the comeback, and future aims in Vietnam. It’s open, cathartic and inspiring and I recommend that you tune in. You can find out more about Ridley at @muaynameisridley on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
I’m joined by Federico Pinzi, an Italian chef and entrepreneur, currently living and working at Pasta Fresca restaurant Saigon, having previously worked in Russia, Australia and Singapore. We talk about the complexities of working in a kitchen, advice for those aspiring to get into the hospitality industry, challenges due to the pandemic, and more. You can find out more about Federico and Pasta Fresca at @pastafresca_saigon on Instagram, and on Facebook, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
Andreia Trigo is a multi awarded Fertility Nurse Consultant, TedEX speaker, lecturer at De Montfort University in Leicester, and founder of the 'Enhanced Fertility Programme' App. We talk about the challenges of infertility, including her diagnosis at 17, being open about conditions that might go under the radar, her work in lecturing, consulting and supporting others with her work, and more. You can find out more about Andreia at www.andreiatrigo.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Dariya Kham runs ‘Help Saigon Homeless’, here in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam. We talk missions behind her charity work, her experiences in her native Kazakhstan, and more. You can find out more at ‘Help Saigon Homeless’ on Facebook and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
Pete Molyneux is a Manchester United fanatic, having followed the club home and away for over five decades, including every European final the club has been involved in. He unveiled the infamous banner, 'TA RA FERGIE, 3 YEARS OF EXCUSES AND IT'S STILL CRAP', in 1989, calling for Sir Alex Ferguson to be sacked. The rest is history. Pete chronicles his tales following the clu in his book 'Ta Ra Fergie: Full Time From The Man Who Held Up The Banner'. We discuss everything about Manchester United, his personal favorite icons, his journey following them from the 1960's until now, challenges of being unable to attend matches due to the pandemic, experiences of Wembley 68, Barcelona 99, and Moscow 08, and his views on how far United are from being Premier League and Champions League contenders again. You can find out more about Pete at @PeteMolyneux on Twitter and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK discusses all things related to cinematography with Morgan Schmidt, an expat living in Vietnam, originally from Los Angeles. We talk about challenges in pursuing this career, why it’s important to be specific in chasing a goal, and the thrill of the whole creative process. You can find out more about Morgan at @bendinglights on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on the same platform.
ComebaCK discusses the practice of non dualism with Guy Gonyea. It’s a fascinating and enlightening discussion on why you shouldn’t take anything personally, why our reality isn’t what we believe it to be, and awareness and conscientious. I thoroughly enjoyed this and think you’ll find it very thought provoking. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK 'Cold Ones With Conor', is with three students from Liverpool - Domenico Baldwin, Katie Taylor, and Annabel Spencer, to discuss their project, 'Who Are They', a children's book focused on gender neutrality. We discuss why this is an important theme, and their aims for the future. Big thanks to all three for joining me on the podcast. To find out more about the participants, follow @azcreationsptp, @rex_and_renae, @annabelspencerxx, and @katieclairrietaylor on Instagram, and @thecomebackwithck for more information on ComebaCK.
ComebaCK interviews Taine Herholdt, a personal trainer and physique competitior from South Africa, currently living in Vietnam, about all things fitness and his journey so far. You can find out more about Taine at @taine_pt and @taineherholdt_fit on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at www.the comebackwithck.Wordpress.com and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK sits down with Evol The ArtMan, a Russian musician currently living in Vietnam, to discuss all things music. Thanks bro! You can find out more about ComebaCK at www.the comebackwithck.Wordpress.com and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK has a conversation with Isabel Raven. Isabel is initially from Sheffield, and has spent time living abroad in both Malawi and Vietnam. She’s also a film and media graduate and is looking to explore that route in the future. We discuss Malawi, gap years, difficulties we face in our 20’s, her experiences in film and media, and more. It’s a great discussion for anybody interested in taking a gap year (or years), or looking to participate in the film and media industry. Thanks to Isabel for the chat. You can find out more about ComebaCK at www.the comebackwithck.Wordpress.com or @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK hosts the first “Cold Ones With Conor” discussion with Michelle Jaeger and Pierre Rault. Topics are toxic masculinity and harassment towards women. Both are expats currently living in Saigon, Vietnam. Pierre has built a post graduate research thesis on toxic masculinity with a UK charity MEND and Michelle has lived in Budapest, moving from the States, where she now teaches at an international school. Both share their experiences on these topics, where we discuss societal challenges that both genders face, from advertising in movies, to tipping culture, and most importantly - What one gender can learn from the other in dealing with two huge social crises that currently exist. Enormous credit to both Pierre and Michelle for coming on to share their experiences and thoughts, it was a pleasure, and I think it’ll be a really enlightening conversation for all who choose to listen. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK is today joined by football writer and journalist Harry de Cosemo. Harry has worked for FourFourTwo, Press Association, and more, specializing in Newcastle United and European football. Harry is the author of 'Black And White Knight - How Sir Bobby Robson Made Newcastle United Again'. We chat about his love of football, journalism career, challenges with cerebral palsy and the pandemic, and aims for the future. You can find out more about Harry at @harrydecosemo on Twitter, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK talks to French magician Stefan Leyshon, whose currently living in Vietnam. Stefan has performed magic for many years, in Hong Kong, France and beyond. We talk about the universal language of magic, the challenges faced by the pandemic, and aims for the future in Vietnam. You can find out more about Stefan at www.magicprod.asia and at @stefanleyshon on Instagram. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK interviews model Violetta Mansurova. Violetta is initially from Russia, and has modeled in China, Thailand and Vietnam, (where she is currently based). For anyone interested in the modeling industry, challenges faced, the logistics of the job, and more - this is a must listen. Excellent chat with Violetta - always welcome back on ComebaCK. You can find out more about ComebaCK at www.the comebackwithck.Wordpress.com and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK chats with Sam Garrington - founder of Roots n Shoots in Manchester. From being featured in the Manc, Sam discusses a range of insightful topics, such as the importance of keeping busy, why the mission of Roots n Shoots is so vital, struggles amongst students growing up, and during a pandemic, and more. Took a lot of valuable insight from this and I'm sure you will too. Welcome back on ComebaCK anytime! You can find out more about Sam at www.rootsnshootsuk.com and @rootsnshoots_ on Instagram.
P.S. Apologies for the slight technical difficulties in recording this episode!
ComebaCK is joined by Michael Walsh. Michael is a musician from Manchester, and a Doctoral Researcher at the University of Sheffield Department of Music, and talks candidly here about musical influences, mental health, how grief inspired his latest album 'QuareHawk', and more. Really enjoyed this one. You can find out more at www.michaelwalshmusic.com and more about ComebaCK at www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK latest chat is with Will Cliff, professional rugby player at Sale Sharks, and the co-founder of 'BACH 95". We talk about challenges faced in his rugby career, including damaging his left eye aged 20, (where he considered leaving rugby), struggles the game faces due to the pandemic, aims for the future with Sale, and his beer venture founded two years ago. Great chat. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
Comeback chats to an extraordinary figure in Sam Conley. Once obese at 21 stone, trapped in an abusive marriage, and having lost everything, Sam threw himself into fitness, where he is now a personal trainer, working with 1 v 1 transformations, and has competed in physique competitions. We discuss male mental health and abuse against men, his work, how he overcame such adversity, and how he continues to inspire men and women today. Thoroughly enjoyed this conversation. You can find out more about Sam at www.samconleypt@activehosted.com and @samconley_coach on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK chats to Izzie Haskell, host of 'The Lean Bean Podcast', and a personal trainer from England. It was great to catch up on topics ranging from fitness to solo travel to mental health and beyond, and Izzie soon has aims to compete in a physique competition come September 2021. You can find out more about Izzie at 'The Lean Bean Podcast' on all streaming platforms, and @izfitness98 on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK interview 29 is with Jeremy Wagner, an American expat currently performing stand up comedy here in Saigon, Vietnam. We talk about all things comedy, challenges and more. If you enjoy, you can check out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
ComebaCK interviews Phi Dang, a life coach from Australia - and the first ever interviewee of ComebaCK in blog form back in August 2020. Phi went viral under 'Inhervitality', in June 2020, after posting a supportive thread on male's mental health week. We talk through Phi's immense journey, including her parents meeting on a boat after fleeing the Vietnam war, the grief of losing her father at 19, her experiences with using cold water to remain present - including going on Wim Hof's ice retreats - why the present moment is so crucial, aims for the future, and why rallying around male mental health is so vital, especially in this current crisis. This perspective from a woman is so refreshing and inspiring. Phi's work has been outstanding since I discovered her last June, so it was a pleasure to interview her for my podcast. You can find out more about Phi on her podcast, 'Grow Through It with Phi Dang', or at @thephidang on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpres.com.
ComebaCK sits down with Simone Heil, a 23 year old maths graduate from Manchester, about her experiences with arthritis sine she was diagnosed at 17. We talk misconceptions about arthritis, the challenges with flare ups, and the stoicism required to deal with it. I'm impressed with Simone's resilient attitude to her situation. You can find out more about arthritis and Simone's story at www.versusarthritis.org and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK chats to Christopher Nguyen, one of the hosts of the Ranting Bananas podcast. We discuss themes from the podcast, why it's important to get uncomfortable, and aims for the future. You can find out more about Christopher at 'The Ranting Bananas' Podcast, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com. (P.S. Apologies for the slight technical issues in this episode).
ComebaCK interview 25 is with Gareth Craze. Gareth is a coaching psychologist, performance coach, and behavioral scientist, initially from New Zealand, currently living as an expat in Vietnam. We discuss the benefits of his practice, his background in the music industry before moving into academia, how he came back from adversity and uses his experiences to assist his clients today, the four crucial pillars to start out with in self improvement, and why everyone could benefit with some mental health practice. You can find out more about Gareth at http://energeiacoaching.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.the comebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK sits down with Toro Hinds. Toro is initially from Bermuda, spent some time in the UK, and is now here as an expat in Vietnam, where he is the founder and CEO of his charity, UPP Global. UPP, short for “Uplifting”, aiming to create equal opportunities for the youth, especially those disadvantaged from vulnerable communities, through education and sport. We talk everything to do with UPP’s mission and aims for the future, his experiences with charity work in Bristol UK, and why each setback can inspire an even bigger and better comeback. Really enjoyed this conversation with Toro with where he’s going with his charity, and I’m excited to see it grow. You can find out more at www.uppglobal.co.uk (soon to be changed to .org), @uppglobal on Facebook and Instagram. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
ComebaCK sits down with Ted Todd, a British man, who in 2019, after 13 great years teaching abroad in the Caman Islands, gave up his job to complete a bucket list project - The Mongol Rally. The Mongol Rally is an intercontinental car rally that begins in Europe and ends in Ulan Ude, Russia, going over 8,000 miles and being completely unsupported. We chat about the logistical, physical and mental challenges of completing such a race, the thrill of driving through a multitude of countries, the people Ted met along the way, the kindness and hospitality of those with less than ourselves, and why you should just live your life. Really enjoyed this conversation and I hope you do too. You can find out more about Ted and his documented journey at Youtube “Travelling Ted”, (make sure you include the speech marks) and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK has a a chat with author Lucy Hawksby. Lucy has written two books, inspired by her dealings with a narcissist. We discuss how to spot a narcissist, the four stage cycle, the challenges in getting books published, and aims for the future. You can check Lucy out at www.thenarcissisthunter.co.uk and check out ComebaCK at www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK interviews Jovel Chan. Jovel is a food marketer, writer and speaker, hospitality mentor and F&B marketing trainer, initially from Singapore, currently living in Vietnam. Jovel has also worked in Dubai, Switzerland and Malaysia. In this episode we discuss her experiences in the hospitality industry, challenges she’s faced in a male dominated industry, why she wants to put it on the map properly in South East Asia. Her knowledge and enthusiasm really shines through during this episode. You can find out more about Jovel at www.Jovelchan.com and on all social media platforms, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK's latest episode is with Erica J Kingdom. Erica is a visually impaired trans author, exploring the representation in literature and the media of trans and non binary people, also interested in the psychology and mental health aspects. Erica also runs the podcast 'The Writer's Den', and is the head of the literary journal press 'The Writers' Den Press'. For more information, you can visit @EricaJKingdom and @writers_den on Twitter, and @EricaJKingdom and @thewritersdenpodcast on Instagram. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK interviews Ryan Clayton, an actor from Manchester, best known for his role on Coronation Street as Josh Tucker. His character was involved in the soap's first ever male rape storyline, featuring an attack on David Platt. We talk acting challenges with the pandemic's uncertainty, everything to do with Coronation Street, working with Survivors Manchester, aims for the future and more. Ryan also appeared on the blog in December, so feel free to check that out too. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK discusses 'My Little Spartan', with Elena Kalispera. We discuss 'My Little Spartan', the story of how her son Vasily was discharged at birth, yet was soon after rushed into hospital with severe hyperbilirubinemia, spending three weeks in intensive care before returning home. Vasily has a severe brain injury as a result, caused by jaundice at birth. Elena wrote about this in an Amazon #1 best-seller, 'My Little Spartan', and wants to help other families going through similar trauma. We discuss mental health, therapy, her aims for the future, and the whole 'My Little Spartan' experience. You can find out more about Elena's work and 'My Little Spartan', at @elena__k and @my_little_spartan on Instagram, www.mylittlespartan.com, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK chats to Alastair Campbell. Alastair is a writer, communicator, strategist and mental health campaigner, probably best known as ex British Prime Minister Tony Blair's press secretary, spokesman, and director of communications and strategy. Alastair has written sixteen books, his most recent 'Living Better: How I Learned to Survive Depression', chronicles his life with mental health issues. He has been one of the most vocal public figures in the UK when discussing mental health, ever since a breakdown in 1986. We talk about the breakdown, working at the top of government, why he is successful "because of" depression and not "despite", a quirky jam jar technique, and how he maintains his mental health nowadays. You can find out more about Alastair at www.alastaircampbell.org and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram, and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK's newest interview is with Lauren Wilkie, a yoga instructor and breathwork practitioner, originally from Canada, and currently living in London. We discuss how important both practices are in benefiting our mental health, how you can develop astonishingly powerful life practices from breathwork in only a year, the value of self talk, acknowledging our thoughts and feelings in alignment with each other, and much more. You can find out more about Lauren at @laurenewilkie on Instagram and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK sits down with David Petrashek to discuss and raise awareness about asperger syndrome. David is initially from USA but has lived in Asia over twenty years, currently out here in Saigon, Vietnam. We discuss the challenges of asperger syndrome from childhood to adulthood, how as a society we can be better educated and understanding of the conditions, and offer support for those faced with such challenges. You can find an array of resources related to asperger syndrome online, and also promoted on ComebaCK - @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK interview 14 is with Claire Stableford. Claire is originally from the UK, has been living abroad for five years, and has set up ‘Saigon Roller Derby’, where she currently lives, out in Vietnam. We talk what roller derby is, how it’s inclusive amongst women in the LGBTQ community, and her aims on growing the project in Asia. You can find out more about Saigon roller derby at @saigonrollerderby on Instagram and Facebook, and also more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK interview number 13 is with Brenda Bekoe, the founder of Apparent Pathway. Apparent Pathway is a parental support service that supports parents raising children living with individual differences. We talk about the challenges parents face in raising and supporting children with individual needs such as asperger syndrome, how attitudes can improve and aims for the future. You can find out more information at www.apparentpathway.com and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
ComebaCK interview 12 is a wicked chat about all things music with Prince Slater. Prince is an American musician currently living in Vietnam as an expat. We discuss challenges in the music industry, corona, and aims for the future. You can find out more at @princeslater on Spotify, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK has the pleasure of chatting to Cherry Farrow. Cherry is a Master Coach, Stage Hypnotist, Motivational Speaker, International Best-selling author, and Master Trainer of NLP, (currently only the second female in Australia with this certification, as of 2020). Cherry talks about NLP and it's guaranteed benefits in dealing with anxiety and depression, and also how it can enhance performance for just about anybody. We discuss more about why this message should be spread as far as a global practice. You can find out more about Cherry's work at www.successfulminds.com.au and www.designyourlifeseminars.com.au. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK episode 10 is with Graham Hughes, a current rugby TMO and previously a referee, who has worked at three World Cup's, including New Zealand 2011 and Japan 2019. He discusses the challenges of officiating, how rugby may change due to the current pandemic, and his experiences working at three World Cup tournaments.
You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK episode 9 is with Aaron Corria, from Cardiff, and founder of 'Brotectors', looking to improve male mental health. Aaron sheds fascinating insight into his own troubles, coming back from adversity, and why it is crucial to share this message of improvement in schools. You can find out more about Brotectors at @brotectors on Instgram. You can find out more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK is joined by Darya, a Russian expat currently in Vietnam, and host of the ‘Darya’s Couch Podcast’. We chat mental health, addiction, digital detox, and the importance of being held accountable. You can find out more about Darya at ‘Darya’s Couch Podcast’ available on all streaming platforms, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
ComebaCK's seventh episode is an interview with Darran Wallace, host of The MiND Podcast. This has been a set of firsts - Darran's first blog interview was on ComebaCK in November 2020, and my first podcast appearance was Episode 6 of 'The MiND', in December. Darran kindly joins me here to discuss coming back from adversity, struggles we all face at university, the importance of sport, music and connection, and the wide variety of projects that he has coming up in the weeks and months ahead. You can find out more about Darran at 'The MiND Podcast' on Spotify, and @darranwallace on Instagram. For more ComebaCK content, visit at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com.
ComebaCK’s sixth episode is with Irish personal trainer and podcast host Colman Power. Colman is primarily focused on organic fitness. We chat about why knowledge of your foods are so essential, sport bringing together a community, the importance of small, incremental changes when going in the direction of success, and the mental and physical link of the diet plans advocated throughout the episode. You can find out more at @colman_power_organic_fitness on Instagram, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
ComebaCK has a chat with Boris Meshkov, a Russian currently living in Saigon, Vietnam. Boris is a film director and musician, having played drums and guitar with various bands in China and beyond for a few years. He’s currently working on a movie project here in Saigon. We talk about his travel stories in Europe and Asia, the difference between film and music from a creative standpoint, and why it’s important to just f**king do it. You can find out more about Boris on Facebook “Boris Meshkov” and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
ComebaCK has a conversation with singer/songwriter Calum Read, who released two EPs in 2020 - ‘Long Cool Girl’ and ‘Lost in Transit’. They’re multi instrumental records influenced by a variety of different places. Calum is also currently living in Vietnam as an English teacher. We talk moving around, music, mental health and more. You can access Calum’s music on all major streaming platforms, and more about ComebaCK at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram and www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com.
ComebaCK speaks to Irishman Matt Burke, host of 'The Magic Minds Podcast', which aims to promote stories of people that have the power to inspire. Matt's book 'My Head to my Heart', is a mental health toolkit, illustrating how he moved from his head to his heart using concepts such as gratitude, kindness, forgiveness and compassion. Matt has an extensive collection of inspiring interviews on his show, including BAFTA winning filmmaker Geoff Thompson, who wrote the foreword to his book.
We discuss forgiveness, mental health in Ireland and beyond, childhood trauma, sexual abuse, issues with drink and drugs, reasons for starting the podcast, and why it's important to always keep learning whilst treading the path of self discovery.
I also interviewed Matt for my blog website, the link to which you can find below.
You can find out more about Matt's work at @magicmindspodcast on Spotify and Instagram.
P.S. (Apologies for the slight technical issues that arise throughout the interview).
If you enjoy, like, follow, subscribe, and you can check out more at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram, or www.thecomebackwithck.wordpress.com
ComebaCK talks to Liliana Nguyen, a Russian/Vietnamese translator, currently spending her seventh year living in Saigon. Liliana is a minimalism practitioner currently blogging on how the practice has improved her mental health. In our interview we discuss concepts such as divination, tarot cards and their meaning, feng shui, spatial awareness and more. You can find out more about Liliana at http://therinajournal.com and more about ComebaCK at www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com and @thecomebackwithck on Instagram.
ComebaCK sits down with Kasey Daye. Kasey is from Ireland/Canada, and is a music teacher performing stand up comedy as an expat in Vietnam. She talks about mental health, comedy, music, why it’s so important to just f**king do it, and making sure that you’re your own biggest fan and best friend. You can find out more at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram or www.thecomebackwithck.Wordpress.com
ComebaCK - The comeback beats the setback. This podcast aims to explain what helps, why the comeback is always the key, and how you can improve. It’s not what happens to you, it’s how you come back from it. Failure is essential, and learning to deal with it effectively can really enhance our lives. You can find out more information at @thecomebackwithck on Instagram. Conor 👌🏼