S7 E66 · Tue, April 15, 2025

Interesting Friends And Strange Characters: Expat Connections [S7.E66]

Greg and Ed discuss some interesting expats they have met over the years - both good and bad - and what lessons they have managed to glean from them. Thailand is a bit of a strange stew of expats; with many different types of people coming together in a foreign land, you are apt to meet and/or befriend people in Thailand that you never would back home. The results can be positive or negative, but either way, there can be lessons to be learned. Greg begins with an anecdote he’s mentioned on the show before, about ‘VP,’ a random character that took Greg to a party filled with U.N. people. Although the people there were ‘interesting’ in the sense that they were educated and well-traveled, Greg felt their snobbery at his low status in Thailand intensely and had to bail. He learned that there is a bit of an unspoken ‘expat strata’ in Bangkok and that people can - fairly or unfairly - place you within that strata no matter where you meet them. Ed counters with a story of a Swedish friend, who although being a great guy in Thailand, ended up being deported back to Sweden for old legal problems. Ed woke up to the fact that when you meet expats later in life, you have no idea what kind of baggage they have from earlier in life. Greg then brings up an old coworker named Seth, who was fairly normal in the daytime, but who Greg realized was deeply embedded into the seedier side of Bangkok’s nightlife. The takeaway: not all foreigners just dip their toes into the redlight districts; some dive in and never get out, and if you’re not careful, you can be pulled along with them. Ed finishes with an unfortunate anecdote about an American friend who was prominent in the expat community in Thailand until he suffered a serious illness and had to return to the United States. The experience made Ed realize that nothing is permanent, and although your expat life might SEEM solid, some bad luck could cause you to be yanked back home.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.  

S7 E65 · Tue, April 08, 2025

Myanmar Quakes & Bangkok Shakes: Thoughts on the March 28 Earthquake

Greg and Ed address the unavoidable topic du jour: the earthquake that struck Myanmar on March 28 that was felt all the way to Bangkok. Greg begins by pointing out that even though much ink and many words have already been spilled on the topic, listeners may be concerned about traveling to Bangkok now or the safety of Bangkok’s buildings in general. They guys decide to do their civic duty and chime in. First, they relate their personal stories - Ed was at home first thought he was getting dizzy (and old) but after realizing it was an earthquake mainly went about his day as normal. Greg was in his office when it hit, and he and his colleagues calmly evacuated the building. Subsequently, they both experienced the insane traffic conditions - Ed took an hour and 45 minutes to get from Khao San to Thong Lor and Greg took almost three hours to get from his office in Hua Mak to his home in Thonburi. Ouch! Lesson: when the BTS and MRT shut down, stay off the roads as much as possible. 🙂 The guys then consider the government’s response to the event and the durability of Bangkok’s buildings. Ed notes that while a single building collapsing certainly is a tragedy, he is surprised many more didn’t go down given how old some Bangkok neighborhoods are. Greg points out that Thai people in general are quite good at remaining calm in a crisis, given the number of floods, coups and riots they have been through. Last, at least for now, the Thai government seems to be taking very seriously the task of figuring out exactly why one building did collapse and determining who is to blame.  Both guys agree Bangkok appears to be as safe as ever. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E64 · Tue, April 01, 2025

Sopping, Soggy, Sodden, Soaking Songkran: The Thai New Year is Here!

With the big holiday nearly here, Greg and Ed reminisce about their various Songkran experiences over the years. Ed notes that last year was a breakthrough year: he actually went out and ‘threw water’ for the first time in many years and had a blast. Greg points out that it’s pretty common for expats to love Songkran at first, but then quickly switch to avoiding the raucous celebrations for many years. Greg has found special Songkran celebrations specifically designed to be kid-friendly, which has allowed him to keep in touch with the experience without a lot of the craziness.  Ed recounts his very first Songkran experience in Chiang Mai, a pivotal moment in his early years in Thailand as it was an amazingly good time that included three full days of brutal water wars. Ever since then he has been ‘chasing the dragon’ of that first experience. Greg then uses AI to do some insightful comparisons between Songkran of 2005 and Songkran of 2025. The AI does a fairly good job of noting the transition of the holiday from being primarily local to being now well-known around the world, and one in which the prior emphasis was on traditional family ritual while today the experience is much more professionalized and commercial. Also check out the photo of a very young Greg at his first Songkran, with his friend Amanda. Oh to be young and wrinkle-free again! Regardles of how it has changed, Songkran remains a defining Thai experience not to be missed by tourists and expats. Just bring a good attitude and prepare to get soaked! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.  

S7 E63 · Tue, March 25, 2025

Second Opinions & Jedi Lies: Stories From Bangkok's Hospitals (Classic Recast)

A fabulous re-cast episode from season 3! Sooner or later, we all spend some time in the hospital, so Greg and Ed riff on their myriad experiences in Bangkok hospitals over the years. But before we get into that, we should note - due to Thailand’s strict defamation laws, some of the places we talk about will remain nameless. But with that out of the way, we can say that Thailand in general has pretty good medical care, and it is standard advice for travelers in neighboring countries to get over the border into Thailand if they have any medical problems. But, as Ed notes, Thailand does not have very good legal protections against medical malpractice: if a doctor makes a mistake, don’t expect significant financial compensation from the Thai justice system. Greg and Ed then trade anecdotes about their own experiences in the Thai medical system, each with some good and bad things to say. Ed’s life has been literally saved by competent doctors; Greg passed himself off as a Jedi in lieu of a real religion; both have been saved a ton of grief by getting a second opinion. Your mileage may vary, but both Greg and Ed agree, as a pure value proposition (i.e. what you get for the money), Thailand, though far from perfect, is a pretty good deal. Listen in for some great advice on how to maximize your chances of getting a good experience at a Bangkok hospital.

S7 E62 · Tue, March 18, 2025

The Russians are Coming! What the Influx Means for Phuket

Greg and Ed discuss the massive influx of Russians (and some Ukrainians) into Thailand, particularly the island of Phuket. Numerous stories have been written in the last year about the unusually high number of long-stay tourists and expats who appear to be escaping the conflict in Europe, some even calling the trend an ‘invasion’. No doubt the sunny climes, pleasant smiles, and great food of Thailand provide a tempting alternative for those who have the means to make the journey.  Ed begins by noting that the Tourism Authority of Thailand seems to be welcoming the growth in tourism that the wave from Russia represents. Concerns over rebuilding after COVID are largely over - Phuket in particular is largely swamped and certainly the economic benefits are welcome after the several years of privation due to the pandemic. But are there downsides? A recent article notes that the average cost of condos in Phuket has doubled in recent years and that in turn has affected the rental market. Simply put, if you are planning a trip to Phuket these days, expect a significantly more expensive venture than in years past. Another problem according to the news is Russians building their own self-sustaining communities. While understandable, some have turned to work that violates Thai laws restricting certain professions to Thai citizens, such as working as tour guides and real estate agents. Greg notes that fast changes such as this are very likely to draw a response from the government, which appears to be forthcoming given the amount of press the issue is receiving. At the very least, Greg points out at least one listener of the podcast who had previously been planning a trip to Phuket but who has now reconsidered. Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E61 · Tue, March 11, 2025

Bangkok Pains: Distilling Bangkok Into a Board Game

Greg interviews Tim Swainson and his team at creative agency Invisible Ink about their Thai-centric board game, ‘Bangkok Pains.’ The show begins with introductions from the creative team at Invisible Ink, and Tim then gets into explaining the game. The first rule of Bangkok Pains is that all players start in debt, mirroring the plight of many Bangkokians, both natives and foreigners. There are the standard board game pieces, in this case, everything from an iconic plastic chair to a bottle of fish sauce and a plate of Som Tum.  Each player then picks a ‘career card’ to see their job and salary (Greg manages to be a professional gamer with a monthly salary of 30,000 baht, while other players score careers such as influencer, DJ, and plastic surgeon) as well as a property card, which determines where you’ll live, and which track on the board game you’ll follow on your way to work (car or BTS).  As the group plays, they discuss where the game idea came from, how it was developed, and the endless rounds of testing that went into finding the right balance of playability, benefits, and penalties. How did they manage to distill all of Bangkok into a board game? Listen in for details - or better yet, buy the game yourself, get some drinks, and invite a few friends to play! Listen in for an endless supply of Thai and Bangkok nuggets of trivia and insight into how the game was developed.  Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E60 · Tue, March 04, 2025

How Thick is Your Bubble? Piercing the Thai/Expat Barrier

Following a great suggestion from listener Kelly, Greg and Ed discuss the ‘expat bubble,’ the tendency for expats (and tourists) to primarily spend time with foreigners, rather than experience the same Bangkok that the majority of Thais are experiencing. Kelly noted that on her recent solo travels in Bangkok, she often found truly Thai markets that were very cheap with delicious food but also that she was the only Westerner there. Certain other cheap food courts, such as those in Big C, would have a more mixed customer base. What gives? Greg and Ed do their best to untangle the mystery. Perhaps the ‘super-Thai’ markets appeared too dirty to anyone but long-term expats, with tiny plastic chairs sitting among random detritus, food apparently kept sitting out too long, and the potential of random vermin running across your feet. Or could it be the expected lack of English and the social awkwardness of functioning among Thai who might not be used to tourists and foreigners? This certainly kept Greg from experiencing ‘real’ Thailand during his first wasted half-year in Chiang Mai. The boys note that a lot of what’s going on might just boil down to personality type. Some of us expats and tourists are just naturally more adventurous and willing to put up with some embarrassment in order to try something new. While others stick to the predictable path, if not Starbucks or McDonald’s, then a ‘Thai’ food court in a clean, international mall. In the end, Greg and Ed make the case for reminding yourself that perhaps 80% of Thais in Bangkok rarely interact with foreigners, and it’s their lives that actually constitute the ‘real’ Thailand. So if you want to experience something really new and different and not just safe, it’s probably worth giving some of those crowded, hot and grimy markets a go. At the very least, you’ll save money and eat well! :) Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E59 · Tue, February 25, 2025

George Dupont: The Only Thai to Fight in the US Civil War [S7.E59] (Classic Recast)

We recount the fascinating story of George DuPont, the only Thai person who fought in the American Civil War. The first record of George in the U.S. is in 1859, but almost nothing is known of how or why he ended up in the United States. We know that in 1862 he volunteered for a New Jersey regiment to fight for the North in the American Civil War. Shockingly, he fought in and survived the battles of Antietam, Chancellorville, and Gettysburg, three of the bloodiest battles of the war. He was eventually naturalized as a U.S. citizen in 1869. He subsequently returned to Thailand, or Siam as it was known, and worked a variety of jobs, from writer for an English language newspaper to a drillmaster to a timber dealer. He died at age 56, and you can still see his grave in the Bangkok Protestant Cemetery on Charoen Krung 72/5.  George DuPont represents a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early Thai immigrants to America. Greg and Ed surmise that there must have been immigrants before him, equally or more interesting! One way or another, we’ll find them and tell their stories on the Bangkok Podcast. :) Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show  as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E58 · Tue, February 18, 2025

Ajarn Ed: Explaining America to Thai University Students

Greg questions Ed about his main job - teaching ‘American Studies’ to Thai college students. Effectively, Ed’s job and his side gig (the podcast) are opposites of each other, given that he is attempting to explain Thai society and culture to foreigners on the podcast.  Ed begins with America 101 - basic lessons about the U.S. that every Thai person should know, especially before traveling there. First, the U.S. is physically a VERY big country, but also quite diverse. The Northeast is quite different from the Midwest, which is in turn different from the South, which differs from the West Coast, etc. Hence, Ed notes that the U.S. is actually a difficult country to generalize about, and some of his students grapple with the concept. For instance, life in an urban city can be completely different from life in the suburbs or rural area, despite both being in the U.S. Second, the U.S. has a violent crime problem, and Thais should be very careful where and when they go somewhere, especially in cities. While the country overall is ‘safe’ in the general sense, that’s not true at all times and in all places. And last, health care in the U.S. is VERY expensive, and no one should travel there without health insurance. ‘Nuff said. Greg then asks Ed about cultural lessons, and Ed notes that often American culture is best explained as the reverse of Thai culture. The U.S. is individualistic, while Thailand is group-oriented. The U.S. is legalistic and ‘low context’, while Thailand is ‘flexible’ about the law and ‘high context.’ And of course, Americans are more direct and engaging than Thais, who tend to be ‘shy’ and hang back, especially with strangers.  No culture is inherently ‘better’ or ‘worse’ than any other, but that doesn’t mean they are all the same. :) Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E57 · Tue, February 11, 2025

Hmmm…A Few Things About Bangkok That Are Over & Underrated

Greg and Ed discuss various aspects of Bangkok that they believe are either overrated or underrated. The guys start with things that they believe get too many props. Greg mentions the Grand Palace and the Damnoen Saduak floating market that tend to be too touristy and overcrowded, but that there are unsung superior alternatives where tourists could better spend their time. Ed counters with Thai customer service, which he credits for being genuinely warm but which he believes is often unprofessional, at least outside of five-star hotels.  Greg then brazenly brings up Pad Thai, which has never floated his boat regardless of its reputation. For Ed, he thinks Thai temples are overrated in general, at least beyond the main ones that everyone should go to at least once.  Greg then goes deep with a critique of the emphasis Thais place on ‘respect,’ especially for older people out of course. That’s probably a good topic for a whole show. For underrated, the guys cover things such as various museums, some financial management options (that a lot of foreigners don’t know about), taxis, and Thailand outside of the main tourist areas. Listen in if you want all the inside info! :) Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E56 · Tue, February 04, 2025

Redefining What A Modern Family Means in Thailand

Continuing the exploration of some of the unexpectedly progressive moves that Thailand makes from time to time, Greg interviews his friend Jacob, an American, and his husband Geng, a Thai, about their marriage in Thailand as two men and their efforts to build a family through surrogacy. The couple begins by relating how they met and began dating, and Jacob adds that even at that stage he was looking into becoming a single father through some type of surrogacy. Luckily Geng was on board, and they began researching different clinics worldwide. They settled on a clinic in Colombia that they felt was very professional and transparent.  With a baby (the genetic son of Jacob) on the way, they decided to make their relationship legal, but at that time, same-sex marriages were still unrecognized in Thailand. Hence, they chose an online marriage in the U.S. state of Nevada. Now legal, they were then able to take their Colombian-born son back to Thailand. While there were no problems actually entering Thailand, their son was only recognized as an American tourist, with no legal connection to Geng.  The guys then explain that they plan to repeat the process with a genetic child of Geng, so they eventually hope to have two children. The next step then will be having their marriage legalized in Thailand, and finally they hope to secure the legal status of their children.  Whew! Talk about pushing the boundaries of a ‘conservative Buddhist’ country. Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E55 · Tue, January 28, 2025

Bangkok's Craft Brew Godfather: A Chat with Khun Chit (Classic Recast)

Greg interviews the fascinating Wichit Saiklao, godfather of craft beer in Thailand and founder of  Chit Beer , with podcast friend Scott Coates sitting in for fun. Khun Chit relates how he first learned about homebrewing while living in the States, and after returning to Thailand and buying a small house on the river island of Ko Kret, he decided to give it a try with a kit he bought on Amazon. Just seven years later, he is a legend of Thai brewing, not just because of his own popular craft beers but also because of his brewing school which now has thousands of graduates.  Khun Chit explains his approach to Thai law, which in general prohibits small batch brewing: by focusing on staying under the radar while campaigning to change the law and spreading his love of brewing to his ‘army’ of brewers, he hopes to push Thai culture in the right direction. He estimates that there are already tens of thousands of Thai people brewing quietly at home, a number so large that eventually the Thai government will likely have to accept as a fact of life.  Greg, Scott and Khun Chit discuss the community of brewers that he has fostered and spread around the country, his ignoble first attempts at brewing, and what drives him forward. Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show  as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our  Facebook ,  Twitter , and  LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E54 · Tue, January 21, 2025

What Changes Would Ed Make if He Was in Charge of Thailand?

Greg and Ed engage in a bit of fantasy as Ed imagines what he would do if he were the Prime Minister (or maybe more accurately, dictator) of Thailand. Ed begins with the caveat that he can only see the world through his own eyes, so his dream policies probably will not align with the average Thai person or maybe even most foreigners.  Ed presents a total of ten changes he would make to the country if he could, and Greg gives wise counsel for each proposal. In no particular order, Ed suggests building a modern prison system to buttress the rule of law, making significant investments in the riverfront, completing the Kra Canal Project, and eliminating dual pricing nationwide. He also emphasizes the need to modernize the laws that govern expats in Thailand, which seem to have been written in the Dark Ages. To top it off, Ed strongly prefers the old-school elephant flag to the current three-striped flag, and he’d rather the country be formally known as Siam due to the racist origins of the name ‘Thailand.’ Greg is impressed with the depth of Ed’s plans and vows to come up with his own suggestions. Some day. :) Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E53 · Tue, January 14, 2025

What's It Like Being An Exchange Student in Thailand?

Greg interviews our new friend Jannik Hiller about his experience as an exchange student in Thailand. Jannik explains that while a university student, he decided he wanted to do an exchange year in a country completely different from his native Germany, so he settled on Thailand, despite never having been here before.    Greg wonders about the quality of education in Thailand versus Germany, and Jannik explains that he was willing to sacrifice some academic quality just for the experience of traveling and living in a foreign land. Jannik then recounts his first month in the country, getting ready for school to start. After an initial shock, he fell in love with exploring Bangkok and acclimated to a dorm at Chulalongkorn University for international students. He talks about interacting with students from the U.S., Mexico, Japan, and Italy, a cosmopolitan experience that led him to pursue a Master’s Degree outside of Germany.  Jannik then expounds on the differences in the academic experience: Thai university is more formal than in Germany, given that students have to wear uniforms and the professors are treated with more deference. Further, the courses involved more group work and presentations than his typical classes back home.   Overall, Jannik’s experience at a Thai university was a very positive contrast to his typical European education, and with the help of the Bangkok Podcast, he has become a true Thai-phile (like the rest of us!). Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E52 · Tue, January 07, 2025

Keeping Resolutions in Bangkok: A Fool's Errand?

Greg and Ed ring in 2025 with a difficult look back at their New Year’s Resolutions from 2024. They recognize the obvious: if you don’t keep your resolutions, you only have yourself to blame. But they try to answer the interesting question of whether Bangkok itself might make keeping certain resolutions more difficult.    Ed begins with a confession that he mostly failed in his efforts to improve his Thai. His plan was to study a well-regarded PDF of common Thai expressions, and while he did succeed in having a Thai friend make some recordings, he didn’t spend much time actually studying them. His second resolution was to watch the top ten best Thai films of all time, and watch them in Thai with Thai subtitles. Again, although he downloaded some of the films, he blew off actually doing the hard work. Ugh.    Greg fared somewhat better. Although he failed to watch a movie and read a book about key figures in Thai history, he did manage to spend more time at the Siam Society and develop a new hobby, the Japanese art of archery known as kyudo. Yea Greg!   Ed’s last resolution involved an effort to establish a new ‘third place.’ In this case, some serious effort was put forth at a very Thai local gym, but Ed failed to make any meaningful connections and eventually couldn’t muster the motivation to keep going.    Both guys conclude that expat life can make it difficult to keep these types of ‘self-improvement’ resolutions: expats tend to live in very self-contained bubbles that don’t make it easy to make significant changes to your life. Given this insight into the expat situation, in the end, it’s all on you to find a way to get it done. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E51 · Tue, December 31, 2024

Looking Back, Looking Forward: What’s Next for BP in 2025

In a year-end wrap up, Greg and Ed discuss their favorite shows of the year and some plans for the podcast in 2025. Ed begins by waxing rhapsodic over his early year interview with David Cluck, Hollywood assistant director who has been based in Bangkok for the last 10 years or so (S7, Ep. 6-7). The flow of the interview was aided by the fact that David and Ed are friends, but Ed points out that it’s rare to sit down with a friend and discuss their career in depth. As a film nerd, Ed (and Greg) enjoyed David’s experience and insider storytelling ability. Greg then brings up our episode on Bangkok in your 20s vs. Bangkok in your 50s (S7, Ep. 29). Greg enjoys having pearls of wisdom about living in Bangkok that only come from having lived in Thailand so long, and Ed appreciated the way the city’s pros have changed for him from the early days to his (now) fifty-ish lifestyle. Next, Ed mentioned his other favorite interview show, with Ron Weaver, ‘American-Thai Guy’ (S7, Ep. 11-12). Both Ed and Greg enjoyed Ron’s personality and insights, and the fact that his experience as an African-American guy gave him a different take on expat life in Thailand. Greg’s next favorite episode was the one on ‘Expat Math,’ our attempt to understand Bangkok with various theories and equations (S7, Ep. 16). There’s no denying Bangkok’s chaotic nature, but that doesn’t mean it’s completely random, and the guys enjoy trying to wrap their heads around the City of Angels and come up with some guiding principles. Ed’s last favorite episode was his take on Bangkok vs. Hong Kong (S7, Ep. 24). As someone who doesn’t travel all that much, Ed enjoyed being able to experience the iconic city and weigh it against his home. Greg wraps up the favorites by bringing up our show on ‘The Limits of Mai Pen Rai,’ (S7, Ep. 40). Both guys agree this might be their ‘angriest’ episode, but defend the right to put their foot down when it comes to inaction to solve problems that result in horrible tragedies, especially when they’re in the service of improving safety for everyone. Last, Greg and Ed discuss their plan to use the last week of every month to air an old show, rather than putting out a new show every week. The truth is the guys need a breather to help them brainstorm new material, but also think listeners would benefit from listening to many of the old gems from previous years. Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know. </p

S7 E50 · Wed, December 18, 2024

Setting Down Roots in Bangkok: Should You Rent or Buy?

Greg and Ed tackle the age-old question for expats living in Thailand: Should I buy or rent a condo or house? The boys begin by making clear there is not one simple answer to this question, and it depends a LOT on a person’s particular circumstances, such as budget, length of stay, and investment expectations. Nevertheless, there are general questions that everyone should consider when making this decision. Hat tip to a video that ThailandBound posted for providing the brainstorming.    The guys go through seven separate topics, ranging from possible double pricing for Thais and foreigners, to the consideration that must be given to condo maintenance fees and the difficulty of finding repairmen if you are an owner. Further, Bangkok is famous for new construction, and each new building may have amenities that make your 5-year-old building feel (and look) ancient by comparison. On top of all this, there are cultural considerations, such as Thais’ notorious fear of ghosts and bad luck in general, hence their preference for buying new rather than lived-in residences.   While there’s no single answer for all expats, everyone planning a long stay in the Kingdom should certainly consider these factors before making such an important decision.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E49 · Tue, December 10, 2024

Filmmaker James Newman on his Documentary Bangkok: City of Angels

Greg interviews writer and filmmaker James Newman, a long-time expat in Thailand who recently made a documentary film about our beloved city of Bangkok. James starts out explaining his background in London as an insurance executive, his subsequent departure to Thailand, and his career as a writer during the e-book boom of the naughts. Around 2017 he transitioned to filmmaking and made a successful short film called ‘Crazy Medicine,’ directed by friend of the podcast Richie Moore.  But today’s show centers on James’ recent film, “Bangkok: City of Angels,” an attempt to capture the chaotic appeal of Bangkok in documentary form. James discusses his decision to cover a broad arc of Thai history, from a cholera outbreak 200 years ago to the more recent COVID pandemic, explaining that he wanted to show the ways in which history can appear to repeat itself and the ways that Thais overcome adversity.  The two discuss the dozens of significant events in Thai history that have shaped Bangkok, from the founding of the city through to World War II and the Vietnam War. More recently, the film considers the 1997 financial crisis, the various political upheavals, up through the pandemic, during which the film was shot.  While it may be impossible to capture the true essence of Bangkok in one film, “Bangkok: City of Angels” certainly is a serious effort in that direction. Don’t forget that  Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website (www.bangkokpodcast.com) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E48 · Wed, December 04, 2024

Behind the Scenes: Making an Episode of the Bangkok Podcast

In a first, the Bangkok Podcast turns its focus on itself as Greg and Ed explain the process by which they create two shows almost every week of the year. The boys begin discussing their approach to brainstorming topics for new shows. Given that the podcast has been around for more than 10 years and there are more than 700 back episodes in total, coming up with fresh ideas is not easy. So the guys tend to mine their personal experiences, the lives of their friends, evergreen news stories that highlight perennial issues with Thai society, and of course, suggestions from listeners. (In fact, if you have any good ideas, please send them in!) Does the podcast follow a script? Conversationally, no. Greg and Ed simply have a topic and bullet points and they flow from there, but there is a structure to the show that includes background music, cues, and common themes. What about the recording process? Well, as two tech geeks, the guys do take advantage of semi-professional gear. Ed speaks into a dynamic microphone connected to a digital mixer that acts as an interface to his Windows 11 PC. Greg records with a condenser microphone connected to his MacBook Air. They record separately at home while on a Facebook call, and then upload the audio to a Google Drive folder. Greg then typically does the edit, recently with an open source but professional tool known as Reaper.  As for posting, the podcast uses a platform called Libsyn, which allows them to upload an episode to one location and then have it dispersed to multiple outlets.  When it comes to general advice, Ed encourages newbies to go easy on the technology. Today, the barriers to entry are low, and a couple iPhones with lav mics are probably all that are necessary to get started. However, over time, mastering better technology is undoubtedly key to making your life easier.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E47 · Tue, November 26, 2024

From the Vault: Five Observations on What Makes Thai Culture Thai [S7.E47]

In a first for the podcast, the boys decide to review a part of the Bangkok Podcast website - the relatively new for Season 4 ‘Resources’ section. A few weeks back we posted a page called ‘ Some Thoughts on Thai Culture ,’ and it elicited some responses from friends of the podcast, so we decided to dig into it. We don’t want to rehash what’s already there, so if you haven’t read it yet, mosey on over and check it out. In brief, the page lists 5 key characteristics of Thai culture: 1) Respect for authority; 2) Being indirect; 3) High context; 4) Fitting in; and 5) No problems. Greg and Ed discuss each, trying to find exceptions and bring some nuance to the characteristics.  At the end, Ed brings up an ‘honorable mention’: an important characteristic that didn’t quite make the top five: Thais also are particularly concerned about appearing proper in public, but in private are no more conservative than most Westerners.  Of course, these are just our opinions and observations - we’d love to hear thoughts, feedback, or dissenting opinions. Listen in for the details! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E46 · Tue, November 19, 2024

Marriage Equality in Thailand: More Complex Than it Seems

Greg interviews our senior legal correspondent Dave Lawrence on the status of marriage equality in Thailand. Listeners may remember that the Thai parliament passed a same-sex marriage bill last year, and it has jumped through a few more hoops and is ALMOST in effect. Dave explains that on January 22, 2025, should be the magic date when marriage between two adults of either gender should be 100% legal and legit.  The guys run through a bunch of different topics, ranging from the history of marriage in Thailand to immigration and nationality, divorce, adoption and IVF. Perhaps not surprisingly, a change such as allowing adults of the same gender to get married has ramifications in many other areas of the law, all details that need to be ironed out in the coming months and years.  Greg and Dave conclude by noting the historic significance of this change in the law in Thailand as Asia in general is considered conservative when it comes to gender and sexuality. There is something unique about Thai culture however that allows it to be more progressive in at least some respects.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E45 · Tue, November 12, 2024

Yet Still Even More Expat Merit Badges! Do You Have Any?

Greg and Ed revisit a favorite show theme: Thailand merit badges, achievements by expats which solidify your status as someone truly making a life in Thailand rather than just passing through as a tourist. For earlier merit badges, check out Season 5, Episodes 29 and 60. Ed begins by bringing up a true sign that you are no longer a noob: learning some of the Northeastern dialect, or ‘pasaa Isaan.’ Both guys confess they have yet to cross this barrier (central Thai is hard enough!). Greg then mentions a true rite of passage, surviving a Buddhist blessing ceremony on your knees. Thai people possibly have genetically superior knees and shins, because sitting on hardwood floors for extended periods of time is not for the faint of heart. Ed then returns to the world of Isaan by referring to the large number of regional cultural festivals that are off the beaten path of most tourists. The merit badge accrues though only if you manage to participate, rather than merely snapping a few pics. The guys continue, hitting on such key breakthroughs as establishing some ‘intestinal fortitude’ when it comes to spicy food and cracking some niches of the Thai language, such as idioms and animal noises. Listen in and let us know how many of these badges you have earned. Also don’t forget to check out Waipod Phetsuphan’s fantastic Ding Dong here !  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E44 · Tue, November 05, 2024

Phil in Udon Thani Talks About Leaving Bangkok for Something New

Ed interviews our buddy Phil Allen about his adventures visiting, and eventually living in, the Isaan region of Thailand. Phil begins by explaining his arrival in Bangkok about five years ago as a roving economist working primarily in financial technology. Unfortunately, the pandemic struck and Phil found himself in a very strange situation in a brand new country. He decided to take the aggressive approach and move from AirBnB to AirBnB in different neighborhoods around Bangkok before a full lockdown ensued. Phil’s story continues with his interest in motorbikes. Due to Bangkok traffic, he thought it would be safer to learn to ride in a small town, so randomly he and a friend began to visit Buriram, a town northeast of Bangkok and not too far from the Cambodia border. Thus, Phil’s love affair with Isaan began, eventually leading him to Udon Thani, where he currently rents a house while traveling back to Bangkok a few days a week for work. So what is it about Isaan that is so attractive? Phil discusses many things he likes about the region, from delicious, cheap food to truly engaging people. Ed and Phil talk about the pros and cons of Bangkok vs Udon, and Phil makes an excellent case for putting Isaan on your travel calendar, whether you are a tourist or an expat.  You can connect with Phil on Instagram at newphysiocracy .  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E43 · Tue, October 29, 2024

Do You Have to be a Weirdo to Thrive in Bangkok?

Greg and Ed revisit an old topic from Season 2, Episode 48: Do you have to be weird to live in Bangkok/Thaiand as a foreigner? Ed begins by noting that the question depends on exactly why an expat has chosen to live here. Are they in the military? Are they on a corporate package? Are they here for a significant other? These options leave room for fairly ‘normal’ people. But what about expats such as Greg and Ed, who seem to live in Thailand without an outside force making it necessary? And of course, what does ‘weird’ even mean, exactly? It’s subjective, but leaving all that is familiar to live in a chaotic city with no guarantees of success seems like a good place to begin. Greg contends that in some basic ways it IS weird to leave your hometown and your country to live on the other side of the world. The simple fact is that the majority of people live close to where they were born for their entire lives. Ed notes that during his recent trip home for a high school reunion, his classmates treated his living in Thailand as something somewhat shocking and extreme.  Ed mentions that even among ‘expats of choice’ there is a lot of variety, but that it’s also true that expats tend to rarely be boring: they are either interesting in a good way, or interesting in a bad way. There is something about choosing to be an extreme minority in a foreign land that attracts a particular type of personality: perhaps one that craves new experiences or that enjoys the challenge of deciphering everyday interactions.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E42 · Tue, October 22, 2024

Wats & Working Girls: How Thailand Balances Buddhism and Red Lights [S7.E42]

Greg and Ed begin a new series called “Thailand: Land of Contradictions” with the first installment addressing a fascinating, apparent conflict in Thai culture: how can Thailand have so many temples on the one hand, but also so many ‘working girls’ on the other?  The Land of Smiles is well-known as a very Buddhist country, in the sense that approximately 95% of Thais identify as Buddhist. Now many might not be strict in the truly religious sense, but there’s no doubt that many aspects of Thai culture and society are informed by underlying Buddhist beliefs. However, the country is also very well-known as providing many outlets for adult entertainment and companionship. The guys note that applying standard Western common sense, these two just don’t seem to fit together. However, with their combined over 40 years of experience swimming in the chaotic soup of Thai culture, Greg and Ed do their best to explain what’s going on through a Thai lens. Ed notes the contrast between the Western notion of ‘burning in hell’ versus the Eastern concept of ‘bad karma’ as well as the difference between a culture based on guilt versus one based on shame. Greg applies some Google-fu and comes up with some more academic takes on the issue, including one of weighing a sin against one's intentions while carrying out the sin. The boys do their best to make sense of it. Experts they are not, but listen in for two amateurs with a lot of experience doing their best to resolve this apparent mystery of Thai culture.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E41 · Tue, October 15, 2024

Future Southeast Asia's James Clark on Thailand's Transport Infrastructure

Greg interviews James Clark, the founder of Future Southeast Asia , a website and newsletter focused on transport and urban development in Southeast Asia. The guys begin with the most exciting developments in Thailand’s railway system, and James mentions the 250 km/hr high speed rail which will run from Bangkok to Nong Khai and then on into Laos and China. The standard rail should also be finally extended to Chiang Rai in the next few years.  Greg and James then go on to discuss various development projects that have been in the works for years: the widening of Saphan Taksin bridge, the extension of BTS beyond National Stadium, and the bridge from the mainland to Koh Samui. The guys also cover important issues such as the cost of the BTS and MRT for the average Thai worker, as well as the pursuit of a unified payment system across all public transportation. Tune in for a great overview of all the exciting upcoming improvements to Thailand’s transportation infrastructure.   Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E40 · Tue, October 08, 2024

What Are the Limits of "Mai Pen Rai"?

Greg and Ed discuss one of the pillars of Thai culture, the general attitude of ‘mai pen rai’ or ‘no problem.’ As the guys have mentioned many times, this attitude is one of the main reasons that living in Thailand is so enjoyable for expats. Thai people tend to be less confrontational, less prone to anger, and less likely to take offense than Westerners, making living in ‘The Land of Smiles’ a fairly easy transition for most people. But can this approach be taken too far? The guys think so. A recent tragedy involving a bus accident that resulted in the deaths of over a dozen children sparked the discussion. While the investigation into the accident is still in its early stages, it appears the bus failed to meet safety regulations. Ed notes that this tragedy mirrors the infamous New Year’s Eve fire at Santika nightclub in 2009 that took 67 lives, largely due to unenforced fire safety laws. The simple truth is that often in Thai society people relax when it comes to preparing for the worst: it’s much easier to blow things off in order to save effort and money. Both guys agree that this is a clear example of ‘mai pen rai’ going too far. Sometimes you need to be strict and confrontational in order to compel compliance with certain laws; the harms that can result from being too lax are simply too great to bear. Ed notes that the question really comes down to one of good judgment. Thais seem to have mastered the ability to relax when it comes to a lot of ‘rules’ that in the end don’t actually seem to affect quality of life very much. However, as the current tragedy shows, there are times when ‘relaxing’ is not the best approach.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E39 · Tue, October 01, 2024

Counselor Amy Pothong Talks About Mental Health in Thailand

Mental health in Thailand has never really had its time in the spotlight, but things are slowly changing as more and more Thais realize that taking care of your mental health is just as important as taking care of your physical health. On this episode we are joined by Amy Pothong, a licensed counselor and founder of Golden Leaf Therapy and Counseling in Phuket.  Amy walks us through the landscape of mental health in Thailand, including some of the reasons that the subject is often taboo, with elders usually preferring to shush things up rather than make a scene and upset the apple cart. Generational dynamics, family responsibilities and strict cultural expectations can all play a part, and the resulting mix can be quite a complicated web to navigate.  Amy also talks about the difference between Thai and foreign cultures, likening the contrast to a peach vs a coconut. In a peach culture people are friendly and soft on the outside, but once you get closer, you find a hard, private core that’s hard to penetrate. However, coconut cultures have a hard shell on the outside, but once you get past that you’ll find that they are soft and easy to get close to. She also helpfully provides some references for trusted resources to use if you think you might like to talk to someone about mental health: the hotline 1323, and Samaritans of Thailand , which has service in both English and Thai. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E38 · Tue, September 24, 2024

Political Cheat Sheet: Prof. Ed Sums Up Ten Years of Thai Politics

In our semi-annual update on Thai politics, Ed does his best to explain the current situation and how Thailand arrived here over the last ten years. He begins with the framework that defined Thai politics for almost 15 years: one party led by the Shinawatra clan that was populist and relied on the support of Thai farmers in the Northeast and the conservative Democratic Party and military establishment that represented the middle class and above relied on support from Bangkok. While the populist party dominated at the ballot box, it led first to a coup in 2006 against the patriarch Thaksin, and then to a coup in 2014 against his sister Yingluck.  The result was a military government for five years until the elections of 2019. Largely due to a very biased Constitution, the military squeaked out a virtual tie with a new version of the populist party, but close behind was a new player on the scene: the truly progressive Future Forward Party, which was primarily supported by younger Bangkokers. However, the conservative Constitutional Court would go on to ban the party and its leaders. The military was able to build a coalition to choose one of the coup leaders as the Prime Minister. Four years later in May of 2023, now with a less-rigged Constitution, the military and Democratic parties would get wiped out and shockingly, the new iteration of the progressive party would win outright, seemingly altering Thai politics forever. As has become the norm in Thai politics, the drama continues to unfold. Listen in for the rest of the story.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E37 · Tue, September 17, 2024

The Dangers of Letting Bangkok’s Delivery Apps Take Over [S7.E37]

Greg and Ed discuss the ‘delivery lifestyle,’ the habit of staying at home and relying on delivery services to bring food and products straight to your doorstep. Both guys admit to slipping into this habit, but Greg enjoys getting out more and tooling around town in his fancy automobile, so it’s Ed that has really embraced this habit. The question is this: Is it good or bad?  Ed begins with some obvious pros: it’s super convenient and allows you to avoid the stress of traffic and crowds, something Bangkok is infamous for. The options for delivery are endless, such that it’s possible to basically order ANYTHING you want, whether from within Thailand or from China. And the actual costs of delivery are low. But what are the downsides? Greg brings up the danger of becoming a homebody and missing out on the social interaction of shopping and running errands in a city that’s simply just fun to explore. Ed concurs that the expat bubble is already bad enough and actually forcing yourself to interact with Thai people in malls and markets is probably a good thing. Other risks include overspending and dealing with frustrating miscommunications and logistical snafus.  Last, Greg brings up the problem of misleading marketing by delivery companies that front as ‘restaurants’ when they are really just ‘ghost kitchens’ without public space at all, which can be a psychological letdown to someone yearning for a bit of social activity at their favorite restaurant only to find it’s simply a kitchen with a lineup of Grab drivers out front. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E36 · Tue, September 10, 2024

Journalist Patrick Winn Discusses His Book ‘Narcotopia’

Greg welcomes back Patrick Winn to the podcast, an intrepid writer and expert on all things dark and shady in Southeast Asia. He previously appeared on the show to discuss his book “Hello Shadowlands,” and he returns to explain his new work, “Narcotopia: In Search of the Asian Drug Cartel That Survived The CIA.” Patrick begins by explaining the unique political situation that the country of Myanmar is in right now. Besides a literal civil war, portions of the country, such as the ‘Wa State’ in the northeast, are essentially autonomous, self-governing areas. Patrick explains that free travel in and out of the area is generally not permitted, and if you just showed up, you would be detained and interrogated by the Wa State Army.  Next, Greg asked the genesis of Patrick’s new book. Patrick explains that he’s been fascinated by the ‘state within a state’ for over a decade and has struggled to find an opportunity to interview any important Wa leaders, due to the fact that the Wa State is notorious for being a manufacturer of methamphetamine pills. In fact, some prominent Wa leaders are actually wanted by the U.S. DEA. Patrick recounts a fascinating story of how he managed through an intermediary to finally make contact, and the resulting interview and subsequent research constitutes the backbone of his book.  The guys continue with a twisting tale of the DEA and CIA’s surprising relationship with this mysterious subculture inside of the already complex state of Myanmar, and the effect its having on Thailand’s middle class, which is a huge consumer of the infamous drugs that the country produces. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E35 · Tue, September 03, 2024

What Comes Next: Greg & Ed Try to Predict Bangkok’s Future

Putting on their best tarot reading hat…or numerology hat…or tea leaf hat…whatever…Greg and Ed make their best prognostications about the future of Bangkok, relying only on their accumulated wisdom and experience. Greg begins by asking Ed whether Bangkok will ever solve its ‘sinking’ problem, and Ed responds pessimistically. Although the science is clear that the sea is rising and Bangkok is sinking, the government does not seem to be taking any drastic action to address the impending calamity, a la the film “Don’t Look Up.” Certainly, SOMETHING will have to be done, but Ed expects it to be too little, too late. Ed then asks Greg whether Thailand will ever have to give up its ‘pragmatic neutrality’ and make a choice between China and the U.S. Greg argues that Thailand will do its best to avoid making such a choice, but if a conflict does occur between the two superpowers, Greg thinks Thailand will likely choose to side with China, for proximity and cultural reasons.  Greg then wonders what Ed thinks about the future of high speed rail in Thailand. On this topic, Ed is more optimistic: there’s something about public transportation that the government has figured out, and Ed expects that multiple super fast, modern rail lines are coming in the near future. Ed then queries Greg about his thoughts on Nana Plaza, the legendary red light complex on Sukhumvit that happens to be located on prime real estate. Greg reluctantly predicts that the owners are likely to eventually cave to some mega condo or mall project. The guys continue with some predictions on Thai politics and older malls in Bangkok.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E34 · Tue, August 27, 2024

Journalist Dominic Faulder on the Complex History Between Thailand & Myanmar

Greg interviews Dominic Faulder, associate editor at Nikkei Asia, long-time journalist in Southeast Asia and observer of the political and diplomatic machinations of Myanmar, and Thailand and Vietnam over the past 40 years.  The main thesis of the episode is this: How should a country such as Thailand respond when its neighbor Myanmar is in the midst of a destabilizing civil war? Dominic begins by pointing out what’s different about the current situation compared with events in its turbulent past. Myanmar has suffered various military coups, but traditionally the opposition to those coups has been splintered and factionalized. However, after the most recent 2021 military takeover, opposition groups unified, plunging the country into a genuine civil war.  So what does this mean for Thailand? According to Dominic, the long jungle border between the two countries is essentially impossible to police, opening up the real possibility of a massive refugee crisis in Thailand. In the long run, the military cannot succeed in running the country, and no exit strategy seems apparent for the generals. Dominic notes that if an even more severe food crisis occurs, as it did in Pol Pot's Cambodia in the years after the Vietnam War ended in 1975, hundreds of thousands of Burmese could spill across the Thai border. Greg and Dominic continue discussing the perilous situation and what it means for the business-minded generals and military-minded diplomats in charge of Thailand in terms of diplomacy, military and economic outcomes as Dominic recounts Burmese history since independence and clarifies the difference between past instability and the current all-out civil war.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E33 · Mon, August 19, 2024

Selling Thailand to the World: How do the Non-Travelers See Us?

In the wake of Ed’s recent high school reunion, Greg and Ed discuss how to sell Thailand to all different types of people, especially those who have only learned about the place through stories, TV and often dubious word of mouth.  The Land of Smiles is of course known by everyone for certain things: nightlife and red light districts, beaches, and good food. But what about visitors who are not interested in those things? How is it possible to pitch Thailand to other types of travelers? At the reunion, Ed interacted with a variety of old friends who weren’t interested in what the country is traditionally known for. First comes ‘outdoors types.’ Ed notes, and Greg concurs, that Thailand has great hiking and long distance trekking, as well as whitewater rafting and other forms of ‘adventure’ travel. Not everyone wants to chill on a holiday, and if you want to get physical and explore the natural world, Thailand’s a great place to do it.  On the flip side, if you are of the age and income bracket that you really want to be pampered, the country might be the spa and resort capital of the world. So whether it’s beauty treatments or massage or yoga, Thailand certainly has you covered.  Last, young people who want to travel on the cheap, hang out with other like-minded adventurers, and explore Asia should definitely consider Bangkok as a jumping off point. Khao San Road may be well known around the world, but Greg notes that Thailand is filled with lesser known secondary destinations that are worth a visit.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. We also sometimes post on Facebook , you can contact us on LINE and of course, head to our website ( www.bangkokpodcast.com ) to find out probably more info than you need to know.

S7 E32 · Tue, August 13, 2024

Don't be That Guy: Expat Stereotypes You Should Avoid

Greg and Ed discuss some negative expat stereotypes - roughly the person you (probably) don’t want to become while living in Thailand...at least forever. We all fall prey to stereotypes sometimes - they have to come from somewhere - but if you’re not careful, you can become comfortable with some of these lifestyles and before you know it, they come to define your new identity in your new home, and suddenly you’re known as The Whiner, or The Apologist. And that’s just the beginning! Heaven forbid that people start to know you as The Premature Pontificator, or The Creep, The Slob, The Bubble Boy or The Player. Like we said, it’s hard to escape most of these all the time, but Bangkok’s mai-pen-rai lifestyle is addictive, and trust us - before you know it, a decade has gone by and you’re still wearing that old Chang singlet out to dinner that you bought when you first arrived on Khao San Road (that’d be The Slob). Have a listen and see how Greg and Ed define these common tropes.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E31 · Tue, August 06, 2024

Phra Pandit Lends His Insight: What Buddhism Says About the Seven Deadly Sins - Part 2

On part 2 of 2 Greg continues his interview with returning show favorite, Phra Pandit on the Buddhist interpretation of the Seven Deadly Sins of western religion. Without wasting any time they pick up where they left off last week and dive right into it with sloth, one of Greg’s favorites. Defined in Buddhism as ‘torpor’ or ‘indolence’ Phra Pandit explains that in Buddhism this trait tends to hinder meditation, and can lead to someone being withdrawn and apathetic, which of course is not something any good Buddhist should do. Also includes a sly critique on Millennials from Phra Pandit. Next up is wrath, defined as uncontrolled feelings of anger, rage and hatred. Phra Pandit gives a personal anecdote where he was approaching this emotion with a taxi driver while dealing with an empty stomach, but notes that anger tends to be delusionary while leading you astray if you are not in control of your emotions.  Envy is next, characterized as a sad or resentful covetousness of the possessions of someone else. Noting that jealousy and envy are two different emotions, Phra Pandit makes a connection to people using this emotion when they think that life isn’t fair. Finishing off with Pride - considered the ‘most demonic’ of all sins - Phra Pandit comments that SOME pride is healthy - pride in your accomplishments, your kids, your hard work - but when it crosses over into arrogance is when things can get out of hand.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E30 · Tue, July 30, 2024

Phra Pandit Lends his Insight: What Buddhism Says About the Seven Deadly Sins - Part 1

Greg interviews returning show favorite, Phra Pandit on the Buddhist interpretation of the Seven Deadly Sins of western religion. After a brief introduction explaining Phra Pandit’s current (temporary) abode in Toronto, Canada, the guys get down to business. First, Phra Pandit notes that in his work with highly varied groups of people, there is often agreement on ‘good’ and ‘bad’ qualities in people. That being said, he notes that not every religion would necessarily value each quality equally. Greg jumps in with his favorite sin of ‘Lust,’ and Phra Pandit says that ‘improper sexual conduct’ is prohibited in the Five Precepts that Buddhists are expected to follow. He discusses how the term ‘improper’ can be interpreted, with an emphasis on the harm being caused in a particular case, rather than specific rules. Next up is ‘Gluttony,’ practically the theme of the Bangkok Podcast. Interestingly, Phra Pandit discusses the issue of overweight monks in Thailand and points out that the precepts actually allow monks to eat sugary snacks in the evening, while most people think that monks are prohibited from eating entirely. However, monks are prohibited from ‘overeating,’ which is parallel to the most basic meaning of ‘gluttony.’ The two mean continue with a couple more of the sins on this Part One of a two-part series. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E29 · Tue, July 23, 2024

Bangkok in Your 20s vs Your 50s: We Discuss the Pros and Cons

Having had the somewhat unenviable (?) POV of living in Bangkok both in their 20s AND in their late 40s (and more), Greg and Ed pro/con Bangkok for different age groups. Is Bangkok really a city for twenty-somethings or fifty-somethings? Greg begins by focusing on the older crowd. On the plus side, Bangkok offers many social opportunities that have a cultural bent, such as the Siam Society, museum groups, and even gourmet restaurants that tend to appeal to a more mature crowd with disposable time and income. Further, the Land of Smiles is a great place to pamper yourself, with more spas and beauty clinics than you can shake a stick at. Last, the simple truth is that Bangkok is a great place to up your standard of living without increasing costs, due to what money can buy compared to back home. However, all is not rainbows and butterflies for the older crowd. Bangkok is a chaotic, loud, and traffic-jammed place, something that older people may have a much lower threshold for. There is also a distinct lack of high culture, such as shows and museums that are truly world class. Last, getting around town is slow and in general inconvenient. Ed then tackles the younger crowd. Ed notes that Bangkok is a great place to live cheaply, a fantastic place for that feeling of ‘anything can happen’ adventure, and a great hub for travel around Asia. On the downside though, the Big Mango is actually not a great place for clubs or dancing, especially, late at night, is not a fantastic place to boost your career, and not particularly good for dating, at least if you are into meaningful relationships.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E28 · Tue, July 16, 2024

Lawyer Dave Lawrence Gives a Legal Perspective on Divorce in Thailand

Greg and Ed interview Dave Lawrence of Pegleg Legal about the technicalities of divorce in Thailand. Although Ed previously discussed his big ‘D’ on an earlier show, his situation was so simple that it’s probably not representative of the typical divorce. Dave begins with his process for new clients. First, he asks if the marriage was registered in Thailand. Many ‘couples’ actually never get legally married in Thailand, which of course changes your legal rights. Second, he asks if the couple has any children. As one would expect, kids tend to significantly complicate matters. However, Dave makes clear if a couple is not legally married, then the mother automatically becomes the sole custodian of the child, and the biological father has no automatic rights.  Next, Ed asks Dave about ‘common law’ marriage, the idea that a couple can be deemed legally married just by living together for a certain number of years, but it turns out that concept doesn’t exist under Thai law. If it ain’t on paper, it ain’t real, at least in Thailand. The guys continue peppering Dave with various marriage and divorce scenarios, including what property is considered ‘marital property’ subject to division and how child custody is handled by biological fathers who have a properly registered marriage.  The topic isn’t exactly rosy, but the big ‘D’ is something that we are all better off knowing something about.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E27 · Tue, July 09, 2024

AI vs The Big Mango: What ChatGPT 4o and Gemini Know (and don’t know) about Bangkok

Greg and Ed perform an interesting test of the current state of AI: can you actually trust what different AI’s have to say about Bangkok and Thailand? Greg uses ChatGPT, while Ed is a Google guy through and through, so Gemini it is. The first question involves a bit of Thai history: exactly when and for how long did Thailand use a red flag with a white elephant? Proper research reveals the correct answer is 1855-1917, but ChatGPT misses by a wide mark, with an answer of 1917 to 2017 (!). Gemini does considerably better, with an answer of 1855-1916.  ChatGPT does better with the next straightforward question: Is Bangkok a province of Thailand? The technically correct answer is ‘no,’ because Bangkok is designated as a ‘special administrative area’ in the Thai system of government. Both AI get the answer right, with Gemini possibly providing a more thorough explanation.  The challenge continues, with questions about Japan and Thailand in World War II, directions in Bangkok, and the history of Southern Thailand. Both AI models do an okay job but also clearly make some factual stumbles. So the lesson of the day appears to be that AI might be helpful as a general background research tool, but always check your facts and don’t count on it 100% - especially when it comes to trying to understand Bangkok! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E26 · Tue, July 02, 2024

Blending Fact & Fiction: Paul & Yuangrat Wedel Return to Discuss Their Novels Set in 1900s Siam Part 2

This is Part Two of Greg and Ed’s interview with Paul and Yuangrat Wedel, returning guests to the show who previously talked about their book “Radical Thought, Thai Mind.” This time around the fascinating couple discuss their two novels, “Beads On A String” and “Dark Karma,” each historical fiction based in Southern Thailand. In this part of the interview, the couple focus on the historical characters and events that are interwoven into the fictional narrative. Greg asks about the sensitivity of dealing with certain high status characters, but Paul and Yuangrat make clear that they very closely followed historical records about public statements and acts.  The interview continues to address such matters as the technology changes that swamped Siam at the turn of the century, the delicate political relationship between Bangkok and the southern sultanates/provinces, and plans for the next episode in the narrative which will encompass the 1932 coup that ended absolute monarchy in Thailand. Listen in for a fascinating interview with a truly erudite couple! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E25 · Tue, June 25, 2024

Blending Fact & Fiction: Paul & Yuangrat Wedel Return to Discuss Their Novels Set in 1900s Siam

Greg and Ed interview Paul and Yuangrat Wedel, returning guests to the show who previously talked about their book “Radical Thought, Thai Mind.” This time around the fascinating couple discuss their two novels, “Beads On A String” and “Dark Karma,” each historical fiction based in Southern Thailand. The two begin with a discussion of the origin of the novels. In short, Yuangrat grew up in the deep South of Thailand with a family of mixed ethnicity, including Thai, Malay, Mon, and Chinese ancestry. This rich family tree provided the raw material for the characters who populate the story. Then the couple did serious historical research on the epic changes that the South of Thailand went through in the late 1800s and early 1900s. With the character and the historical framework, they then wove a fictional story that intersects with actual historical events.  Greg, having dug into the first novel, attests to the pull of the story, which is a fascinating (and surprisingly horny!) look into a part of Thailand that was caught in the middle of a whirlwind of change, and the people that played a role in how it evolved. The discussion looks at topics that still play a big role in Thailand today - royalty, religion, money, corruption, gambling, and complex family dynamics. Against the backdrop of southern Thailand at the turn of the 20th, it’s a fascinating look back into the past and the creation of a story that’s as layered and nuanced as the real-life details the novels portray. Tune in for part two of the intriguing interview next week.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E24 · Tue, June 18, 2024

Ed’s City Review: Bangkok vs Hong Kong - Which One Comes Out on Top? [S7.E24]

Continuing our regional focus of late, Greg and Ed discuss Ed’s recent trip to Hong Kong and how it compares to big, bad Bangkok. Ed begins with a big caveat: he’s not really much of a traveler, and he spent only 2 ½ days in Hong Kong, so his take is that of a true noob. That being said, Ed begins on the positive side, noting how geographically beautiful the city is, being situated on mountainous islands that present incredible photo opportunities.  However, when compared to Bangkok, Ed found a lot of shortcomings. First, Hong Kongers tend not to smile much, including customer service staff. After years in Thailand, Ed realized how spoiled he has become. Second, the LOCAL cuisine was almost comically bland, with food literally being served unspiced and with no condiments on the table. (Both guys agree though that when you factor in all the international cuisine there, the food options overall are great.) Third, money and social status was discussed openly and almost constantly by Ed’s tour guides, which to Ed’s western ears came across a bit crass. On a more neutral note but still unusual, the tour guides also openly discussed Hong Kong politics and their disdain for China in general. As a student of politics, Ed didn’t mind, but their open near-hostility seemed inappropriate in a tourist setting. Greg provides some counterpoint to Ed’s experience, having enjoyed Hong Kong in the past, and Ed admits he needs to return, sans tour guides, to explore the city more in depth. How do you think Hong Kong measures up to Bangkok?  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E23 · Tue, June 11, 2024

Regional Podcast Pals: Joah McGee on Covering Tragedy & Hope on Insight Myanmar

Wrapping up our short series on our regional podcast peers, Greg interviews Joah McGee from the Insight Myanmar Podcast . Joah begins by explaining his early life in Myanmar and how he initially went to the country to study meditation and later secured a proper job doing training for an American Embassy-related organization. He managed to juggle professional life dealing with politics, with a personal life in monasteries practicing meditation. This eventually led Joah to making a documentary about a famous monk and writing a guidebook for foreigners wishing to study meditation in the country. As his expertise increased, a podcast focused on spiritual aspirants was the logical next step. All was not to stay rosy, however, as the country suffered a military coup in 2021. At that point, Joah and his partners made the decision to transition the podcast to more general stories about on-the-ground realities in the country, which of course necessitated dealing with the complex political situation in Myanmar. Greg questions Joah about issues such as self-censorship, guest selection, and the overall tone of the show. Joah explains that the harsh reality of current life in Myanmar requires serious shows, but that he does his best to mix things up and highlight the many special aspects of Burmese culture that people often forget among the grim stories in the news.  For a great change of pace from the Bangkok Podcast, check out Insight Myanmar.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E22 · Tue, June 04, 2024

Bangkok Devaluation: A Few Things That Used to Matter…But Don’t Anymore

In a possible new series, Greg and Ed discuss things that have become less important or meaningful since they began living in Thailand. In short, stuff that we used to value a lot that just seems not to matter as much anymore. Ed begins with the somewhat obvious: clothes in general just matter a lot less. Never a fashion guy, Bangkok’s ‘uni-season’ is perfect for him since he can basically wear the same thing all year round. Greg - famous for his consistent shorts/t-shirt/vans outfit, concurs that it’s just much easier here to get dressed in the morning. No need for ‘winter clothes,’ giant snow boots, nor rainwear either - rains come and go so quickly, it’s simply better to wait them out. Greg starts out with a much more complex topic: he thinks sex and perhaps even romance are given less significance in Thai culture, and it has rubbed off on him in the last twenty years. Many factors could be at play: Thais seemingly casual nature about just about everything, the advantage that foreigners seem to have in the Thai dating market, or perhaps the greater social acceptance of go-go bars and redlight districts. The guys do their best to delve into the nuances of the issue. Ed responds by bringing up his total lack of interest in owning a car, something that would be unthinkable anywhere he lived in the U.S. Although Greg likes the freedom owning a car in Bangkok brings, Ed sees it as nothing but a hassle and is glad to be free of looking for parking spaces, paying for upkeep, and worrying how much he has had to drink.  Greg then brings up another tricky topic: intellectual property. Back home fake goods were a hard no-no, but their prevalence here has devalued the importance of buying original all the time, with the caveat that you know what you are getting when you buy.  Ed finishes off by admitting that he probably cares less about his salary living in Thailand than he would have if he stayed back home. Greg concurs that when the average salaries of nearly everyone else are much lower, it makes it much easier to be happy with what you are getting here, as long as you like your job.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E21 · Tue, May 28, 2024

Regional Podcast Pals: Mike Tatarski on Producing the Vietnam Weekly from Ho Chi Minh City

Greg interviews Mike Tatarski of the Vietnam Weekly podcast . Mike begins by explaining the podcast originated out of his Substack newsletter of the same name. After taking a course in ‘entrepreneurial journalism,’ he got motivated to fire up the podcast, and the rest is history. He manages to produce a show per week as a one man band operation but has reached a substantial audience.  Greg and Mike then go on to talk about similarities and differences between his show and the Bangkok Podcast. On the one hand, both are in English and therefore have a lot of listeners that are neither Thai nor Vietnamese and also have a lot of interviews, but on the other hand, Mike’s background is in journalism and his show tends to focus more on serious news stories. The BP of course is two clueless dudes trying to make each other laugh with an occasional dose of useful information. The guys go on to address topics such as the podcast communities in Vietnam and Thailand, how to find good topics for shows, and the delicate problem of keeping a show fresh and authentic in countries that do not share the same appreciation for freedom of speech that most Western countries do.  If you have any interest in learning more about traveling to or living in Vietnam, definitely check out the Vietnam Weekly podcast! And if you’re wondering what that photo is, make sure to listen after the end music to hear how Greg’s supporting his son’s (now illegal) business with his school pals. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E20 · Tue, May 21, 2024

Looking Back on the 2006 Coup and Why We’re Still Feeling it Today

Greg and Ed revisit the 2006 coup in Thailand and reminisce about the oddness but also impactfulness of the experience. Ed begins with a quick recap of the career of Thaksin Shinawatra, the billionaire business tycoon who swept to power (democratically) in 2000 on a promise to fix the Thai economy which was still reeling from the 1997 financial crisis. He did in fact manage to stabilize the economy and easily won re-election in 2004. Although controversies did mar his terms, his ability to repay loans to the World Bank and IMF lent him significant credibility.  However, in 2006, a constitutional crisis ensued in parliament, and eventually, while Thaksin was away in New York giving a speech to the United Nations, the military seized control of the government. Ed relates his utter shock at waking up to headlines of “COUP D’ETAT,” and Greg talks about the strange expectation of tanks rolling through the streets and whether or not it was even going to be safe going outside. Alas, the coup was real but also almost entirely peaceful, with soldiers manning the streets accepting flowers and taking selfies with pedestrians. The guys wonder at the difference between pre-coup Thailand and post-coup Thailand, the relative peace beforehand and the almost constant political drama since. In their time in Thailand, the guys can’t think of another single event that changed life in the Land of Smiles as much as the 2006 coup.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E19 · Tue, May 14, 2024

Checking in on Bangkok’s Craft Beer Scene with BangkokBeerGuide.com

Greg interviews Clif from BangkokBeerGuide.com about the ever evolving craft beer scene in Thailand. Cliff begins with the basic premise for the website and related social media: to act as a guide for locals and visitors to all the beer drinking opportunities in Bangkok, especially craft beers made by locals. The guys then review the famously restrictive Thai laws governing beer and alcohol in general, such as the prohibition on purchasing alcohol from 2 pm to 5 pm in the afternoon, and high minimum requirement for brewing beer that effectively shuts out all but the largest companies.  Clif then digs deep to explain his love of beer as an act of creativity of the brewmaster but at the same time a “common man’s” drink. Hence, Cliff’s desire to promote local craft beer as a way to connect with small-scale Thai brewers. Unfortunately, Thai laws, supported by powerful forces best not discussed, make it harder for Thai ‘little guys’ to get into the business of making beer. Greg and Cliff express hope that beer champion Taophipop wins his epic battle to reform Thai beer laws.  The guys continue discussing various venues about town, how the scene has changed over time, and Cliff’s philosophy for the website. Listen in for a great overview of the Thai craft beer scene circa 2024. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E18 · Tue, May 07, 2024

Bangkok Superlatives: Stories From Decades in a Crazy City

Greg and Ed try a new type of show in which they troll their memories for extreme experiences, something that expats in Thailand seem to have a lot of. Greg begins with his scariest experience in Thailand. As a relative noobie, he engaged the services of a shady visa firm and was later called out on it by the Canadian Embassy. At the time, he didn’t know if a heavy fine, deportation, or even jail was in order, but luckily he got away with a much smaller punishment. Ed follows with a different type of scare, when his then fiancee was in a horrible motorbike accident, and he didn’t know the extent of her injuries. They were severe, but luckily not life threatening or disfiguring. Greg follows with his lowest point ever as an expat, when he lost his job in Bangkok just one week after his grandfather passed away. Ed then relates his weirdest memory ever as an expat, when government officials showed up at his house to verify that he was really married to his wife. Not only did the officials ask to see Ed and his wife’s bedroom closets, they also asked the couple to lie in bed next to each other, fully clothed, but holding hands! So strange! But it happened.  Last, Greg tells his most extreme, throw caution to the wind story: when he was getting married, he at first was pinching pennies, worried about saving money for the future, but eventually he just realized, !#@% it! You only get married once and after splurging and having a great wedding, he realized it was worth it. Ed then tells of his wildest night in Thailand, which involved an outing on Koh Samed that turned violent and required a hasty retreat in the wee hours of the morning to find a safe place from local thugs.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E17 · Tue, April 30, 2024

Philosopher Dr. Soraj Hongladarom on Buddhism, Ethics and AI

Greg interviews Dr. Soraj Hongladarom on the intersection of AI, ethics, and Buddhism. Dr. Soraj begins by discussing his background in the study of philosophy in the U.S., in particular early modern Western philosophy. After returning to Thailand, he transitioned to the study of the philosophy of technology and science, which today of course, means AI. Dr. Soraj explains that different cultures certainly have different approaches to some ethical issues, and he is currently interested in how Buddhist thought might apply to the growing concerns over the use of artificial intelligence.  Today, there is a ‘global conversation’ about AI, and although people might agree about some general ethical guidelines to apply to AI (that it be the truth for example), there are still many concerns over issues such as privacy and AI usurping people’s jobs, to name a few. Greg asks how Thais might see ethics differently from Westerners, and Dr. Soraj explains that he actually teaches Western ethics to Thai students and finds that initially they have problems appreciating concepts such as equality and the rule of law. However, eventually they come around to the Western perspective. Listen in as the two delve into more interesting twists and turns in the fascinating intersection between ethics, AI, and Buddhist culture.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E16 · Tue, April 23, 2024

Bangkok for Nerds! Understanding the Chaos With Some Sweet Math

If math can be used to solve everything from the orbits of galaxies to the swirl in a snail’s shell, then surely it can be applied to Bangkok to shed some light on the chaos? In a fun show, Greg presents certain semi-mathematical ‘equations’ to help us all understand Bangkok a bit better. While not scientific in the strictest, these rules of thumb may help you navigate the chaos of the Big Mango with a little more confidence.  First, the guys discuss all the variables that affect traffic travel times in Bangkok. The season, school status, your destination, public holidays, and time of day (among others), all seem to matter. For noobs these factors can be tough to string together, but for experienced expats it becomes a must. Next, Greg brings up the truism that often we are forced to choose between transportation that is fast, cheap, or comfortable; two out of three seems the best you can do. For example, motorbikes are fast and cheap, but certainly not comfortable (or safe for that matter).  Greg and Ed continue with great advice on the relationship between flips flops and quality vacations, gatorade availability in the city, whether to walk or run in the rain, and a great shortcut to determining the quality of a hotel by friend of the podcast Dan Fraser.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E15 · Tue, April 16, 2024

Stuart McDonald from Travelfish on Tourism Recovery in Thailand Through Visas, Backpackers...and Weed?

This is Part 2 of our interview with Stuart MacDonald, Asian tourism expert and founder of TravelFish.org , arguably the best single resource for traveling in Southeast Asia. In this half of the interview, Greg, Ed and Stu revisit the tricky topic of ‘overtourism,’ an issue which attempts to find a balance between economic revenue from tourism, which in theory is good for local economies, and damage to the environment, which of course can in the long run make things worse for local people. Stu gives his take on how to find the right balance. The old friends then address the perennial (and perplexing) obsession with ‘high-quality tourists’ by the Thai government. Stu gives new insights on the problem of ‘leakage’ (which is almost as gross as it sounds) - revenue from tourism that ‘leaks’ out of the local economy and into foreign investors and companies. It turns out that higher end tourism results in more of this drain, with a lower percentage of revenue actually making into the hands of local people. Backpackers for the win! Last, the guys discuss the (green) elephant in the room: the decriminalization of cannabis in Thailand and the likely effect it will have on Thai tourism. Stu discusses the likely possibility that more tourists will flock to the Kingdom to experience the new freedom to indulge, but also points out the oversaturation of the market that can turn people off, whether it’s tourists or locals themselves.  Tune in to hear a true expert’s insights, rather than two random guys yammering! :)  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E14 · Tue, April 09, 2024

Stuart from Travelfish Talks How (and how not) to Help Tourism Recover Sustainably

Greg and Ed interview their old friend Stuart of Travelfish , master of all things travel and tourism in Southeast Asia. Greg begins by reading a quote from an article on the weird duality of tourism: by sacralizing a location, tourism results in its ‘desecration by footprints.’ Stuart gives his take and undoubtedly agrees that this is generally true, hence his take on ‘environmental tourism,’ or tourism that is very conscious of its effect on the locations it promotes. He explains that the cons of tourism for locals (such as crime, drugs, environmental damage, etc.) can often outweigh the pros of increased income.  The guys then discuss the overall effect of the COVID pandemic that more or less shut down tourism around the world. Stuart notes that he had hoped that the shutdown, which resulted in the rebirth and reconstruction of some areas hit hard by high volume tourism, would lead to an increased awareness of the damage and perhaps a new policy upon re-opening. Unfortunately, most countries, including Thailand, have reverted to a ‘growth at all costs’ approach in an effort to get back to pre-pandemic visitor numbers. Stuart laments this outcome in great (and grave) detail.  The old friends continue with other tourism related issues, such as the growth of ‘secondary tourism,’ or alternative destinations off the beaten path. Stuart notes that this was actually MORE common in the early days of tourism in Thailand, when backpackers would essentially wander the whole country. Alas, over the years, a small number of destinations became so popular that alternative destinations fell by the wayside. Stuart sees glimmers of hope that if the Thai government won’t limit overall tourism numbers, at least they will try to spread the tourists to more locations which could of course limit some of the negative effects of overtourism. Tune in next week for Part 2 of our interview with Stuart MacDonald.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E13 · Tue, April 02, 2024

Bangkok History Highlight: 20 Years Later - Looking Back at the 2004 Boxing Day Tsunami

In a twist on our history episodes, Greg and Ed revisit the devastating tsunami of 2004. Greg begins with a thorough summary of the event, which begins with an absolutely massive earthquake off the coast of Sumatra that caused a rift and shift on the ocean, creating immense waves that would affect multiple continents. Reverberations were felt as far away as the state of Oklahoma. The devastating results eventually took the lives of hundreds of thousands of people in Southeast Asia.  Greg and Ed recount their memories. In Greg’s case, he had just flown out of Thailand to Amsterdam and learned of the tsunami after he touched down. He relates how he was glued to the TV and as the horrific death toll numbers climbed and climbed. For Ed, he was in Bangkok and actually tried to go to work the morning of the event, only to find that his office had been closed due to a countrywide shutdown. He did manage to feel an aftershock while in his office tower though. The guys discuss the total shock felt by the entire country of Thailand, and all the positive vibes that the Thai people gave to all the foreigners affected by the tragic act of nature.  Greg then talks with listener Hugh Van Es , who has written a short book about his devastating search for a friend lost in the waves called Hell in Paradise . His first-person account of Phuket after the disaster is a sobering account of just how big an event it was, and how - even 20 years later - it seems that everyone knows someone who was affected. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E12 · Tue, March 26, 2024

AmericanThaiGuy Ron Weaver on the Complicated Issue of Racism in Thailand

This is Part 2 of Greg and Ed’s interview with Ron Weaver, otherwise known as ‘AmericanThaiGuy’ on social media. Ron begins Part 2 by directly addressing his experience as a black man in Thailand. He carefully explains his preference for living in Thailand over living in the U.S., explaining that although Thai people typically don’t prefer darker skin, their approach to the preference is indirect rather than confrontational. He argues that Buddhist culture truly tends to focus on whether a person is good or bad and mostly he feels judged by that, rather than the color of his skin. In short, in the States Ron feels that in certain places he might have to fear being physically assaulted, but in Thailand he simply never has to worry about that.  Greg and Ed trade stories about the VERY minor examples they have of being treated differently as white guys in Thailand, and the guys discuss the valuable lesson this may impart. Ron then also elaborates on the general Asian preference for lighter skin, and he distinguishes this from true racism by pointing out this may simply be an effect of capitalism. Simply put, companies trying to make money amplify a preference and make it salient in the culture simply for the profit motive. Many Asians who pursue the preference do so innocently merely as the product of their society and the concordant effect of marketing in it.  The three expat veterans continue with a discussion of ‘wokeness’ in Thai society and the role that economic inequality plays in the evaluation of race. Listen in for a truly unique take on being an expat in Thailand!  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E11 · Tue, March 19, 2024

AmericanThaiGuy Ron Weaver on Mastering Thai…and Social Media

Greg and Ed interview Ron Weaver, aka ‘AmericanThaiGuy ,’ on his life as an expat in Thailand as well as his excellent Thai language skills. Ron begins by waxing rhapsodically about his first visits to Thailand, when he fell in love with the weather, the food, the nice people, and shockingly, the women. Although he loved the country, communication was so frustrating that he vowed to learn the language. But unlike 95% of expats who make that vow, he actually did.  The guys trade language learning stories and agree that necessity is the key motivational factor: if you feel as if you don’t HAVE TO learn the language, you probably won’t. Ron was able to put himself into the mindset that he HAD TO speak Thai if he was going to survive in Thailand and that allowed him to put in a good five years of work to get fluent. Ron discusses various Thai learning strategies and explains his rise on social media as an explainer of Thai culture and language to foreigners. An excerpt from Ron’s popular Instagram channel demonstrates his unique teaching style, in which he often role plays more than one character in humorous situations. In addition to teaching the quirks of Thai, he also has his own podcast , unique in the whole country, in which foreigners speak to each other exclusively in Thai.  Tune in next week when Ron delves deep into his experiences as an African-American in a country infamous for its preference for light skin tones.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E10 · Tue, March 12, 2024

Foreigners Acting Badly: What Does it Take to Push Thais Over the Edge?

Greg and Ed discuss the Thai temperament and what exactly causes Thais to occasionally blow their collective lids. Greg uses the recent example of a Swiss expat who kicked a Thai woman in the back, allegedly because she was inappropriately sitting on the steps of his condo and blocking his path. Somewhat surprisingly, the incident went viral, much to the Swiss man’s detriment. The guys speculate as to what it was about THIS incident that caused it to blow up. Was it the fact that he used his foot to assault the Thai woman? Was it because she was a doctor, a person of high status? Or was it some random quirk of social media that led to the uproar? Ed then runs through the classic no-go zones in Thai society, such as insults to religion or the big M, and the guys try to figure out if anything else is going on in the recent incidents. Is there possibly some pent up frustration against foreigners in Thailand? Could it be that Thais got used to fewer foreigners during COVID? Greg speculates that possibly Thai nationalism is on the rise and reminds listeners of the price paid by former Ambassador Kristie Kenney when she suggested that Thailand should be a real democracy. Ed then dusts off some of his political science knowledge to try to determine what counts as expressions of nationalism versus simple enforcement of social norms.  While no deep certainties are uncovered, the guys give some common sense advice: if you are a foreigner in Thailand, respect local customs and don’t be a jerk. Hopefully, you didn’t hear it here first. :)  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E9 · Tue, March 05, 2024

Our Friend Mookie Could Raise Her Kids Anywhere. So Why Thailand?

Ed interviews his former student Mookie about her experience studying in the U.K. and her later choice to move her family back from the U.K. to Thailand. The two old friends begin reminiscing about Ed’s university program and how Mookie really was an unusual student. Most young Thai women tend to be very shy in class and rarely express their own opinions. But Mookie was different, showing up on the first day of class ready to debate! They quickly move on to Mookie’s decision to get a master’s degree in London, which Ed was happy to hear wasn’t too hard for his former student.  Mookie's story gets an unexpected twist when she managed somehow against all odds to find a perfect guy on Tinder of all places, leading to marriage and two beautiful children. At first, she and her husband wanted to raise their kids in England, and Mookie discusses what she liked about the schools there. However, over time, the couple grew disillusioned with the U.K. and ended up choosing to move back to Thailand and raise their kids here.  So what’s up with that? Well, in short, Mookie and her husband felt the schools were not such a great deal for the money, when you factor in class size and facilities, compared to Thailand. Plus, health care was ‘free’ but the service provided was poor. Last, England is just not very outdoor friendly, given the poor weather relative to Thailand.  Although she lists some cons to Thailand at the end of the show, Mookie makes a convincing argument that Thailand is a great place to raise kids relative to the U.K. Believe it!  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E8 · Tue, February 27, 2024

Ahh, Memories... Greg and Ed Discuss Those Vivid Early Bangkok Days [S7.E8]

Getting a bit nostalgic after listening to Tay-Tay’s latest album, Greg and Ed reminisce about their respective first year’s in Bangkok by recounting their most vivid early memories, something that’s unique for everyone but plays a big role in setting the tone for your time here.  Ed explains that he came here a little bit older than many expats, and relatively speaking, had his ‘shit together’ so to speak. No visa runs, no desperation at the end of the month to pay bills. But what he wasn’t ready for was the excitement, ‘newness,’ and general party atmosphere of Bangkok. In Ed’s words, he felt like he was a freshman in college all over again. Greg possibly had a more typical experience, having arrived in his twenties with a couple nickels in his pockets. He recounts his long traverse to work, something out of “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles,” and his anticipation of his first paycheck. Luckily, he ran into some super friendly NGO workers from the UN to ease his transition to expat life (note, this is a lie). Ed talks about having some ‘typical’ memories himself, this time of late night, drunken tuk-tuk rides (an expat requirement if there ever was one) and the crowded street market that used to be lower Sukumvit. Both guys of course fell in love with the place and hence, the roots of the Bangkok Podcast were sown.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E7 · Tue, February 20, 2024

Adventures in Filmmaking With Expat Extraordinaire David Cluck - Part 2 [S7.E7]

This is Part 2 of Ed’s interview with friend and expat extraordinaire David Cluck. The guys pick up where they left off, discussing the holy grail: living in Thailand but making a Western salary. David explains how he began to get work in Thailand and for a while balanced a life in L.A. with one in Bangkok. He shares numerous anecdotes from his work on the Hua Hin Film Festival, which eventually led him to intersect with the cast and crew of “Only God Forgives” and a meeting with Ryan Gosling. David then explains how he got a unique opportunity to work as the assistant director on a black and white silent film, shot in L.A. but written and directed by French filmmakers. Wholly unexpectedly, the film, “The Artist,” went on to win the Academy Award for Best Picture, among many other accolades. And believe it or not, the Cluckster has some of the only spoken lines in the film! The boys wrap up by diving deep into the advantages that Thailand brings to foreign film productions, from excellent crews to fantastic scenery as well as tax incentives and rebates. Suffice it to say that you can add film production to your list of all the cool things going on in Thailand today.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E6 · Tue, February 13, 2024

Adventures in Filmmaking With Expat Extraordinaire David Cluck - Part 1 [S7.E6]

Ed interviews David Cluck, a Bangkok-based filmmaker, friend of the podcast and bona-fide “interesting expat”. The guys begin talking about their mutual love of Thailand, but then go back to the beginning to hear about David’s early life as a musician in Southern California and how he transitioned into working at a local TV station. That led to some work on commercials and short films and then slowly and surely into work on bigger budget film projects. David regales Ed with stories of working with Rob Lowe in Ed’s hometown of Cleveland, Ohio, and then to his break on a film with Jeff Bridges, the ‘Big Lebowski’ himself. Now in the big leagues, David took a flyer on a low budget film called ‘Monster,’ and lo and behold the main actress would go on to win the Academy Award for Best Actress.  The guys then get into David’s introduction to Thailand on a film project called ‘Formosa Betrayed,’ which will lead to David re-orienting his life towards the Land of Smiles. The rest is history as they say. Listen in next week for Part Two, when Ed and David focus on why major film productions often choose to shoot in Thailand.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E5 · Tue, February 06, 2024

Land of Frowns: Ed Details Lessons Learned from a Thai Divorce

We’re getting a bit personal on this episode as Ed talks about his marriage and eventual divorce in Thailand. Although it’s a difficult topic, enough time has elapsed that Ed is ready to discuss whether or not his experience provides any lessons for expats in the Land of Smiles (and sometimes frowns).  First, Greg asks Ed about the actual legal procedure of getting a divorce and whether it involved a lot of paperwork. In Ed’s case, the process was easy because it was by agreement; the only hitch was the need for two witnesses, which was solved by paying a random motorbike guy 100 baht to be the second witness (seriously). For more complex legal angles that must be considred, the guys plan to have resident lawyer Dave back on a later show to explain all the details.  Second, Ed does his best to try to figure out a possible lesson for other expats. On the one hand, every relationship is unique and can succeed or fail for a lot of reasons having nothing to do with cross-cultural issues. But Ed does come up with one insight: he feels that he had the habit of always taking his wife at her word in an almost legalistic way. Ed references previous shows where the ‘high context’ nature of Thai culture was discussed. Thais tend not to rely so much on what people say, but read a lot into what is unspoken. Ed wonders whether his failure to recognize this led to communication issues. Since his wife spoke English well, it certainly wasn’t language.  Greg chimes in with a few insights from his own marriage, and both guys try to fashion some advice for expats looking to tie the knot with a Thai partner. Chok dee from the Bangkok Podcast!  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E4 · Tue, January 30, 2024

Dr. Natthawat Hongkarnjanakul on Thailand’s Space Ambitions [S7.E4]

Ahh, Thailand. Beaches, sunsets, late-night parties, serene temples, and…space technology design and future satellite launch site?  Greg interviews Dr. Natthawat Hongkarnjanakul of the Thai Geo-Informatics and Space Technology Development Agency, essentially Thailand’s version of NASA. Dr. Natthawat begins with his background studying aerospace engineering in Thailand and later in France on a scholarship. Next, he talks about GISTDA, and the Thai government’s interest in space research. Greg notes that people do not normally think of Thailand when they think of space, but Dr. Natthawat states that Thailand uses satellites for data gathering for mapmaking, air quality monitoring, and for help during natural catastrophes such as floods or forest fires.  The two continue by going into more detail on the work of the Thai space agency. Dr. Natthawat points out that a big part of their work is educating the private sector in Thailand on the value of satellite data. Greg remembers reading about McDonald’s use of satellite images back in the day to plan its expansion, and Dr. Natthawat says that this is exactly right, that many big companies have realized the unique advantages of data from space.  Listen in for further discussion of the ‘space economy’ and the unheralded work of Thailand’s space agency.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E3 · Tue, January 23, 2024

Expat Wins! Six Situations That Level Up Your Bangkok Life [S7.E3]

Greg and Ed discuss situations - whether they come from luck or strategy - that can seriously improve your quality of life in Bangkok. The guys try to avoid the super obvious things - getting a better job, meeting the person of your dreams - to focus on factors that are more advantageous than one might expect in Thailand.  Ed begins by emphasizing the importance of living close to where you work and having a short commute. While some might put this in the obvious category, the boys both agree that in Bangkok, this simple thing can make a real difference to your quality of life, as the daily stress of a long commute adds up quickly. Greg then brings up the unexpected benefits of having a Thai spouse that works at an international hospital or school, which typically provide significant price reductions to family members such as husbands and wives and children. The cost savings can be great.  Ed then brings up the problem of flooding, which plagues certain neighborhoods around the city. Knowing this when you choose a new area to live in can totally change your experience during the rainy season. Greg then mentions the strange fact that having a friend who works at an Embassy, especially the American one, has numerous advantages. The guys continue by discussing how much a good maid can improve your life and the extreme usefulness of having an employer that provides a proper work permit from the get-go.  Trust us - if you can make any or all of these things happen, your stay in Thailand will get better. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E2 · Tue, January 16, 2024

Photographer Tim Russell on the Fading Glory of Hualamphong Station

Greg interviews well known Bangkok-based photographer Tim Russell about his book ‘Bangkok Station ,’ which focuses (literally) on the iconic and now mostly defunct Hualamphong Train Station. Tim begins by explaining his early days twenty years ago as a traveller in Vietnam and how he picked up photography as a way to document his travels. Eventually he made his way to Thailand and managed to pass through Hualamphong in its heyday. The guys discuss Huamlamphong’s design by an Italian architect and its opening in 1916, making it a Bangkok institution for more than 100 years.  Greg then brings up the possible future of the building, with many people concerned that it could be torn down and replaced with the typical condo or new mall. Tim believes that the current plan is to make the station into some type of rail museum, but still admits that in the long run, due to the value of the real estate, there’s no guarantee it will be around in the long run.  The guys continue by focusing on the eclectic neighborhood around the station, the incredible diversity of visitors who have made use of it over the years, and Tim’s decision to focus on photos of people at the station rather than its architecture or the trains themselves.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S7 E1 · Tue, January 09, 2024

New Year Resolutions: How to be a Better Expat in Thailand

In a spirit of optimism and renewal, Greg and Ed discuss their New Year’s resolutions as expats. What are their goals for 2024 to grow as expats in Thailand? Greg begins by committing to read The Falcon of Siam, a famous novel set in 18th century Thailand, and to watch The Overture, a film about a famous classical musician in the Royal Palace. Ed wants to focus on improving his Thai, and he developed a plan to learn to read a collection of 9,000 Useful Thai Expressions, a popular PDF among serious Thai learners.  Greg then mentions his desire to spend more time at the Siam Society, an organization dedicated to spreading knowledge of Thai history, culture, and society, famous for its lecture series. Being a movie guy, Ed has decided to pick ten of the best Thai movies of all time and get to the point where he can watch them with Thai subtitles.  Last, Greg has a plan to join a local club of Thai people to help him make more connections with other Thais, with archery or possibly knife-making leading the list. Somewhat similarly, Ed would like to find a new ‘third place’ - somewhere to hang out besides his workplace or his home.  Ambitious these goals are - there’s no doubt about that! But that’s how we roll at the Bangkok Podcast. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 Enull · Mon, December 25, 2023

Holiday Bonus Show Preview!

Hey guys, I know we said we were done for the year, but we have one last little surprise for you. We sat down with two of our very good friends John and Poom to record a special bonus show for our patrons. But since it’s the season of giving and all that malarkey, we thought it might be fun to release the first 14 minutes of the show to our non-patron listeners too. Ain’t that special? Keep in mind our bonus shows are a bit more freewheeling and improv-based, and often have some spicier language than normal, although there’s nothing here that’ll make your hair turn white. So enjoy this special preview and if you want a bit more Bangkok Podcast in your inbox, become a patron and get a bonus show like this every week. Happy holidays everyone and see you back here in the new year.

S6 E70 · Tue, December 19, 2023

Our Bangkok Survival Kit: Tips and Tricks if You're Exploring Bangkok on Foot

Just before the boys take off for the holiday, and hordes of new visitors arrive, Greg and Ed give advice on how to survive a long day exploring Bangkok, be you a tourist or just an expat trying to check off some boxes. The guys run through numerous items, some of which might seem obvious but which still can be easy to forget. Others have only been realized from some hard-earned wisdom as long-time expats in the City of Angels. For example, Greg extolls the virtues of noise-cancelling headphones which can make even a stroll in some of Bangkok’s noisiest areas almost pleasant. Ed reminds people to bring a phone charger or external battery, as Bangkok is not quite modern enough to make finding an outlet easy. Greg notes that if you don’t want to twist an ankle, a pair of comfortable shoes is a necessity for any lengthy Bangkok jaunt - especially if you’re over 40, as the guys have sadly found out. And Ed reminds people of the notoriously chilly aircon in Bangkok’s movie theaters and coffee shops, which are much easier to survive with a jacket or scarf big enough to function as a make-do blanket (see the pic below). Listen in for a dozen more items that the guys recommend to make a day out in Bangkok significantly less stressful. Also a special thanks to Errol for gifting us some wine, which helped Greg power through the recording of this episode. Pic below. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E69 · Tue, December 12, 2023

Childline Thailand: Tackling Abuse & Neglect, Offering Hope & Safety Part 2

This is Part 2 of Greg’s interview with Ilya Smirnoff of Childline Thailand. Ilya begins with the ‘timeline of a child,’ which is basically a roadmap of the rights and responsibilities of children as they age. It begins at birth, when responsible parents should get both a birth certificate and house registration certificate for the newborn. At age 7, Thai children have the right to attend nursery school, and at age 12, young people become criminally responsible for at least some of their actions, something that every kid should know, of course. Age 15 is the age of consent, where Thais can leave school if they want and also work certain jobs in safe environments. Although Thai men must register for the draft at 18, citizens don’t become fully legally adults until age 20. This allows them to marry without their parents consent and buy cigarettes and alcohol.  Greg asks about parents and what role they play in Childline, and Ilya notes that about 10% of the calls they receive are from parents or teachers who need advice for how best to deal with a troubled child. Although the organization’s main role is not to teach parenting, Ilya explains that the main problem in most troubled families is poor communication, and that families can survive through very dire circumstances if they maintain trust, warmth, and effective dialogue.  The two continue with more specifics on the different situations Ilya has encountered over his years with this very important organization.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E68 · Tue, December 05, 2023

Childline Thailand: Tackling Abuse & Neglect, Offering Hope & Safety - Part 1

Greg interviews Ilya Smirnoff, the director of Childline Thailand , an NGO dedicated to the rights of children in Thailand. Ilya begins by explaining his early life as a monk, and how he eventually left the monkhood and began doing charity work. The basic genesis of Childline Thailand was to provide a single phone number for children to call to gain access to information about all the government services that are designed to help children in trouble. The organization was able to get the simple phone number ‘1387,’ which is still their number today. Ilya notes that there are actually an array of services of great variety, but that a single access point makes it much easier for children to navigate the system.  Greg then asks Ilya to walk him through an example call, where a child who has run away from home calls in. Ilya says the first step is to assess whether the child is in immediate danger; if so, Childline will immediately call the police so that they can intervene and hopefully render assistance. If a child seems to have a skillset that perhaps allows them to live for a while on their own, Childline will do a further assessment to determine the appropriate services for that child. The fact that up to 70% of Thai children have a grandparent as their primary caregiver, and the difficulties that can bring, exacerbates the situation, making their biological parents harder to track and them perhaps more willing to run away. The generation gap between grandparents and children is often vast and a communication breakdown often makes violence more likely.  Greg and Ilya continue to discuss the emotional difficulties of the job, its great rewards, and complexities of navigating the various services available in Thailand. Stay tuned for Part 2 of the interview next week. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E67 · Tue, November 28, 2023

Don’t Do These Things: How to Earn an Expat Demerit Badge

In a follow-up to previous episodes on expat ‘Merit Badges,’ Greg and Ed discuss ‘DEmerit Badges,’ mistakes that long term expats make that they should NOT make. In other words, if you’ve lived in Thailand for a while, and you act like a n00b, you deserve a demerit. Greg begins with the classic fashion faux-pas of all foreigners in Thailand for more than a few months: wearing elephant pants. As the official mark of being brand new to Thailand, these flimsy pajama bottoms are verboten for long-timers (and that’s still true, notwithstanding their surge in popularity among hi-so Thais). Ed then brings up raising your voice or getting angry in public with a Thai person in their official capacity. Simply put, anger in public gets you nothing in Thai culture, except possibly some disrespect.  The guys continue running through several more no-no’s for expats and repeat tourists, from forgetting your passport to bum gun blunders. If you don’t want to embarrass yourself, listen in for advice on how to look like you belong in Thailand.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E66 · Tue, November 21, 2023

Neo-Buddhism: How Thailand's Largest Religion Reacts to Change

Greg interviews our old friend Phra Phandit, resident podcast expert on all things Buddhism and religion. This time the topic is ‘Neo-Buddhism’ or the way Buddhism has changed and adapted over time, in particular the way it has been appropriated in the modern era by Western culture and pop culture in general. Greg sets the stage with a quote about ‘modern’ Buddhism that has eliminated supernatural beliefs, ritual, and the monkhood, and instead focused on interior exploration and happiness in this life. Phra Pandit argues that there are certainly a number of people today who practice mindfulness meditation and call it Buddhism, but that there really isn’t a serious movement of people staking a claim to modern Buddhism.  What’s really happening, according to Phra Pandit, is that many people are choosing the parts of Buddhism they like (namely meditation) and combining it with other aspects of psychology, yoga, or environmentalism. Greg asks when these changes render Buddhism not even a religion at all, and Phra Pandit has a very direct answer. True religions attempt to provide ultimate answers to the meaning and purpose of life. Once you strip away this priority of dealing with the ‘ultimate,’ you are left with something that can only be called a ‘lifestyle,’ not a true religion. Greg and Phra Pandit continue their discussion of other modern variants of Buddhism and the extent to which they capture the true nature of the religion. Phra Pandit, of course, is old school. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E65 · Tue, November 14, 2023

The Secret to Expat Happiness: Managing Your Expectations

Greg and Ed discuss how to manage your expectations in Thailand as a strategy for surviving and thriving in the Land of Smiles, or indeed, as an expat anywhere outside of your comfort zone. Ed explains that in giving advice to a recent arrival, he emphasized being smart about what to expect. Instead of trying to change Thailand to something familiar or to get it to fit some previously determined standard, it’s better to simply appreciate what Thai people are good at and accept what they are not good at.  The guys then talk about the dangerous trap of merely LOWERING your expectations and just assuming everything is worse in Thailand. They then run through numerous examples of things better here than where they are from back home: food in general, public transportation, electronic banking, etc. ‘Managing your expectations’ undoubtedly works in both directions.  Ed then brings up the realization that sometimes Thais simply have a different interpretation of something we all value, such as ‘customer service.’ Back home, it implies competence and efficiency, but to Thais it means attention and a sincere desire to help. Sure you may prefer the back home version, but the smart thing is to appreciate what the Thai concept brings to the table.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E64 · Tue, November 07, 2023

Superstition, Religion and...Architecture? Thai Spiritual Permanence with Dr. Andrew Johnson Part 2

This is Part 2 of Greg’s interview with Andrew Johnson, cultural anthropologist extraordinaire and investigator of the extremely niche topic of the relationship between Thai supernatural beliefs and local architecture.  Greg and Andrew begin where they left off last week, discussing what it’s like as ‘rationalists’ to interact with relatively superstitious Thai people. Andrew relates a classic story of a Thai woman who encounters a ghost in a nearby field and who simply calls the police who end up shoo-ing the ghost away, an outcome completely unexpected in a western framework. He insists that the Thai word for ghost (‘phee’), encompasses a much broader range of unexplained phenomena than just the western idea of a disembodied ‘spirit.’ Next, the guys discuss Andrew’s book, “Ghosts of the New City,” a study of the interaction between urbanization, progress, and supernatural beliefs in Chiang Mai, Thailand. Andrew notes that Thais do not only believe older buildings contain spirits, but also that new constructions can as well. Hence, urban planning decisions can be particularly complex, because they cannot be reduced to simply trying to ‘preserve old stuff.’  Lastly, Greg and Andrew get into the psychological imprints that different locations leave in our minds, but also how the locations themselves carry imprints of past lives and previous ‘orders’ that have now fallen by the wayside. These emotional experiences, which are processed as non-magical in the west, are really not substantially different from what’s going in the minds of supernatural believers who are going through the same thing but using different words to describe it. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E63 · Tue, October 31, 2023

Thai Superstition vs Western Skepticism: Building Bridges with Dr. Andrew Johnson Part 1

Part 1 of 2! Greg interviews author Andrew Johnson, a cultural anthropologist with an expertise in the supernatural beliefs of Thailand and how they interact with urban planning and architecture. First, Greg inquires about the nature of ‘superstition’ in Thailand, and whether Thai people truly live up to their reputation for being ‘superstitious.’ Andrew notes that the distinction between ‘religion’ and ‘superstition’ is really a modern formalization of certain ‘official’ religions, Buddhism in Thailand’s case. But the nature of Buddhism is such that it is more tolerant of ‘syncretism,’ or the mixing of beliefs, so Thai culture is really steeped in three traditions: formal Theravada Buddhism, Brahmanism (an earlier form of Hinduism), and ‘animism,’ or the folk beliefs of early Thais.  Next, Andrew emphasizes that both the newer systems of belief and the older folk beliefs are actually in a constant state of evolution. Thais from the countryside steeped in animist ideas must adapt to living in a city of high rises and skytrains and taxis, just as Thais from the city may prefer modern variations of Buddhism (such as Dhammakaya or Santi Asoke) to traditional Theravada Buddhism.  The men continue with a fascinating exploration of the status of Bangkok in Thai society, how Thais address the issue of skepticism and belief, and how foreigners can best open their minds to Thai beliefs while keeping their feet on the ground.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 Enull · Tue, October 24, 2023

Can You Find Food That's Delicious AND Healthy at the Vegetarian Festival?

Greg and Ed venture out into the real world to record the show on location to answer an age-old conundrum: Is it possible to find healthy, non-fried starch food at the famous vegetarian ‘Jay’ Festival in Thailand? The guys, being veteran expats, have experienced the vegetarian festival many times in the past, and both feel that while it has its benefits, the food itself is neither particularly tasty nor super healthy. But have they misjudged it? Only some new research can answer the question. The boys head out into Talad Noi, perhaps their favorite neighborhood in all of Bangkok, and begin sampling some of the various vegetarian delicacies along the back sois. First up is an oatmeal bun, which is fairly yummy if not exactly delicious. Not a bad start. Next up is some deep fried taro, which both guys find crunchy and satisfying. Healthy? Maybe not, but tasty nonetheless. Then the guys stumble upon Greg’s favorite, ‘khanom toob-tub,’ a tasty candy-like snack made of a huge glob of caramel and peanuts that’s hammered into oblivion by two guys with giant mallets and folded into a bar of goodness. No complaints here. :) Last, Greg and Ed try a kind of pancake sandwich with soy paste in between, and while a bit dry, it also went down easy. Unfortunately, further gastronomic experimentation was cut short by a rainstorm, but both guys conclude that their memories were a bit harsh and that it’s actually pretty easy to find a variety of tasty food at the Jay Fest. However, it’s the whole experience, along with parading Chinese dragons, temple offerings, and stage performances that make checking out the festival worthwhile.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E61 · Tue, October 17, 2023

Thai Tourism: On Its Way to a Full Recovery - But Is That a Good Thing?

Please help us by taking our first Bangkok Podcast listener survey! Click here to get started , it only takes a few minutes. Everyone who fills it out will get 50,000 baht!* Greg and Ed discuss the current state of Thai tourism and whether the recovery is behind or ahead of predictions. Ed begins by citing a chart for the last full pre-COVID year of 2019, when Thailand came very close to having 40 million foreign tourists. Shockingly, that number went to nearly zero in 2020 and 2021, and the recovery began slowly in 2022. So where are we now? Well, in short, the prediction is that 2023 will see about 25 million tourists, roughly 60% of pre-COVID numbers.  The guys admit this is probably ahead of schedule, given previous expectations, and do their best to explain what’s going on. Ed notes that there are thousands of Russians and Ukrainians fleeing the war, which has probably boosted numbers somewhat. He even reads an article about the exploding real estate prices in Phuket, due to the influx of Russians with money. Greg then reviews the up and down nature of Chinese tourism, which has recently jumped due to relaxed visa restrictions. Regardless of the reasons though, the current outlook for Thai tourism is a rosy one. Greg then raises the important question of overall tourism numbers, and whether that really should be the goal anyway. “Overtourism” has been an issue raised on the show several times before, and unfortunately it seems as if the Tourism Authority of Thailand is still focused on total numbers , to the detriment of other issues such as the quality of the experience and potential harm to infrastructure and the Thai environment . The guys finish with a bat signal to Stuart of Travelfish to come back on the show and give us his take. Or should it be a fish signal? Either way, we need Stuart!  *This is not even remotely true Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E60 · Tue, October 10, 2023

Greg Gets Schooled: Linguist Stu Jay Raj Critiques a Thai Conversation Part 2

Please help us by taking our first Bangkok Podcast listener survey! Click here to get started , it only takes a few minutes. Everyone who fills it out will get 50,000 baht!* This is the second part of Greg’s interview with resident Thai language expert Stu Jay Raj, in which Stu critiques a conversation that Greg had in Thai with a co-worker. The two begin by discussing the unusual role that linguists have in digging deep into exactly why language works the way it does, something the average person never thinks about. He even contends most linguists could be on the autism spectrum! As for specific advice, Stu begins a fascinating explanation that Thai doesn’t really have a word that means ‘yes’ directly; the word ‘chai’ actually translates more closely to the English expression ‘it is.’ Hence, to indicate an affirmative response, Thais will simply repeat the verb used in a question. This fascinating difference with English is continued with a discussion of other ways to indicate agreement, with words that sound almost equivalent to a grunt in English. As always, the context and nuance dictate the appropriate meaning, and what us foreigners are taught in class is often an oversimplification of a complicated concept. The lesson continues with more useful advice on improving your Thai. One thing for sure, there’s a lot more going on in Thai conversations than is immediately apparent when you are just a basic speaker of Thai!  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share. *This is not even remotely true.  

S6 E59 · Tue, October 03, 2023

Greg Gets Schooled: Linguist Stu Jay Raj Critiques a Thai Conversation

This week it’s Greg’s turn to feel the wrath/wisdom of our in-house Thai language guru, Stu Jay Raj. After Ed did it a few months ago , our listeners have been waiting for Greg to take the hot seat, so here it is. Greg recorded a short conversation with his friend Tong, and the show starts with a replay of that conversation.  Greg begins by self-flagellating, but Stu tries to buck him up and reassure him that there’s nothing to be embarrassed about. Stu begins by pointing out Greg’s choppy way of speaking, something that Greg himself had noticed when listening to himself. This creates a problem in Thai, where length of vowels is extremely important to clarity. Another thing Stu points out is Greg’s use of the Thai ‘meuan gan’, when he really should just have used ‘meuan’ alone, which Stu explains with a lesson in colloquial semantics. The feedback continues, with Stu sometimes emphasizing pronunciation, but also focusing on the nuances of word usage and colloquialisms. While most non-native speakers fret over tones, which Stu admits are important, he seems to focus more on choosing the correct word for a particular context.  The targeted advice continues next week in Part 2 of this interview.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E58 · Tue, September 26, 2023

The Massive Bangkok Bomb that Didn’t Go Boom

In a return to our Thai history series, Greg tells the story of a massive truck bomb in Bangkok - that never exploded. In March of 1994, a U-Haul-style truck pulled out of the parking lot of Central Chidlom department store and accidentally struck a motorcycle driven by a 21-year old named Boonsern, who will become the unlikely hero of our story. The truck tried to flee, but a number of other motorbike guys forced the truck to stop. The driver of the truck was a foreigner and couldn’t speak Thai and convinced Boonsern and other witnesses to let him go into Central Chidlom to make a phone call. However, the driver never returned and effectively disappeared into the ether. However, when police opened up the now-abandoned truck, they found an insanely huge bomb that most likely would have decimated much of downtown Bangkok!  Although the exact target of the truck bomb has never been proven definitively, Thai police eventually focused on two suspects, one of whom was captured and served 4 years in prison. It is surmised that most likely the terrorists were targeting the Israeli Embassy, which was not far away. Although ‘almost’ stories usually aren’t too exciting, in this case we are happy that the climax never actually happened and Bangkok dodged a massive tragedy.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E57 · Tue, September 19, 2023

What You Need to Know About Writing a Will in Thailand

Greg interviews our senior legal correspondent Dave Lawrence from Pegleg Legal about a very important but often put off issue: getting a will in Thailand. Dave begins by discussing general concerns that might apply in any jurisdiction, not just Thailand. For example, anything of value that is ‘titled’ with the government, such as land or cars, and then also bank and investment accounts, should be dealt with first. Next, Dave suggests considering ‘heirloom’ gifts, objects that might have family or sentimental value. And then, although unpleasant to think about, comes questions about what type of funeral service you want. Are you a ‘toss me to the wind over the ocean’ kind of person or do you prefer to be deep underground? Grim, but these decisions need to be made.  Dave makes clear something that may just be the most important decision - choosing a responsible executor, who is going to be the main person to interface with the probate court, a requirement in Thailand. Greg and Dave discuss the difficulties entailed in finding the right person and how it might be best to defer to a professional, such as a lawyer or other person with experience.  The guys go on to examine other issues such as contesting wills and how family law (such as marriage, divorce, and children) intersects with the law of probate in Thailand.  You might not want to do it, but now might be a good time to start thinking about the inevitable! :)  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E56 · Tue, September 12, 2023

Greg vs Ed vs You: The Great Bangkok Podcast Trivia Episode

This week Greg and Ed take a page from a regular segment on the bonus show and challenge each other with some trivia questions, spanning Thai history, geography, religion, pop culture, and language.  The guys begin by trading questions about Thailand’s provinces, Ed with a question about provinces bordering Cambodia, and Greg with a question about provinces bordering Bangkok. Next is language, with Ed bringing up the source of Thai script and Greg coincidentally asking about the discovery of the stone upon which the script was found. When it comes to history, Ed turns to the famous Victory Monument, and Greg nails that it commemorates Thailand’s victory over the French in a brief war in Laos. Greg instead stumps Ed with a question he should have known about the history of Thonburi. In response, Ed asks Greg about the most important Buddhist holiday, Visakha Bucha Day, and Greg retaliates with a question about the temptations the Buddha faced under the Bodhi tree. Last but not least, Ed asks a pop culture question about the movie ‘Suriyothai,’ and Greg turns to the popular Miss Universe pageant to close out the show.  If you thought being challenged on your knowledge of Thailand was fun, become a patron and check out our regular Trivial Thai segment.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E55 · Tue, September 05, 2023

Unpacking the Rewards of Meditation Retreats with Phra Pandit

Ed interviews recurring guest of the show Phra Pandit on meditation retreats. This is Part Two of a two part series; Part One is a basic introduction to meditation. The discussion begins with Phra Pandit giving some very solid advice for choosing a retreat: make sure you know the accommodations, including food and lodging, are at least adequate. Later he makes clear that luxury isn’t the way to go, but sharing a tent while covered in mosquitoes may not be the best way to begin your journey to inner peace.  Next, Ed brings up the one ten-day meditation retreat he did a long while ago, and Phra Pandit stresses the importance of knowing all the rules you must follow while in attendance. The monk believes that in general stricter is better (go big or go home!), with silence being an absolute must. While some of the rules might seem a bit cultish, Phra Pandit notes that temporary restrictions for a few days does not a cult make!  Ed then turns to the expert to explain some of the weird (and sometimes frightening) mental experiences he had on his long retreat. Phra Pandit uses Ed’s experience as a way to illustrate a few important concepts relating to Buddhist philosophy and theory of meditation.  A psychedelic of your choice may help the episode go down a bit better. Just sayin’.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E54 · Tue, August 29, 2023

Sticker Shock! Listeners Clue us in on Bangkok's Price Swings

In this show Greg and Ed respond to the opinions of our, ahem, massive group of followers on LINE about prices in Thailand: specifically both what is cheaper than you would expect and what is more expensive than you would expect. Ed starts things off with a general mini-rant about fruit. In semi-tropical Thailand, wouldn’t it make sense that fruit was both plentiful and cheap? Not so Ed claims, even for such famed Thai fruits as the mango, which can be quite expensive off season. Greg opines that it depends where you go. The comments from listeners certainly run the gamut, with most examples being things that are more expensive than expected. Examples include imported textbooks, gourmet food, public transportation, gym memberships, coffee, pizza, and the old classic, wine, due to insane import duties.  While a lot of things are cheap in Thailand, a few things are even cheaper than one would expect. Examples from our listeners are public utilities such as water, gas and diesel fuel, boob jobs (!), laundromats, and domestic airline flights.  The general consensus seems to be that the cost of living has risen, but Thailand still manages to shine as a total package compared to most other options for expats. Hence, we’re staying. :)  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 Enull · Tue, August 22, 2023

Linguist Rikker Dockum on the Royal Society's Thai Language Oversight

Greg interviews old friend of the podcast Rikker Dockum , Thai language expert extraordinaire about the Thai Royal Society , an organization dedicated to overseeing, promoting and regulating the Thai language. Rikker begins by explaining that he actually wrote his undergraduate thesis on the Society more than 20 years ago, so he’s a longstanding follower of their work. He notes that it originally modeled itself after the French Academy, which, among other things, develops French words for English equivalents.  For instance, Greg brings up the issue of the word ‘computer,’ which is typically spoken in Thai as ‘com-pu-TER,’ even though the Society has specified a true Thai word for the computer. Rikker goes through the etymology of the word, but Greg asks whether the work of the Society is even necessary if people don’t adopt the words they come up with. Rikker defends the use of public funds for work codifying ‘official’ Thai, noting that were it left to the private marketplace, the work would never get done.  The old friends continue their conversation about the Society, emphasizing the need for such an organization for a language like Thai, which is vital to the history and culture of Thailand, but plays little role outside the country. Very few languages in the world are so popularly dominant that their continued preservation is assured, and unfortunately, Thai language is not one of them.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E52 · Tue, August 15, 2023

Greg & Ed Return to Thailand With a Few Thoughts on Travel

The guys trade stories about their recent trips, Greg to Canada and Ed to Singapore. Ed begins with a few observations about the island nation. First, Singapore lived up to its reputation of being clean and orderly. Everything from the airport to the streets operated smoothly, and the population seemed to obey all the traffic laws all the time. This was a clear contrast with Bangkok, where traffic laws are contextual options.  Second, the technology was more advanced than Thailand and probably even the United States. Ed relates a story of a restaurant with no cashier at all, where all the transactions take place electronically, from ordering to payment.  Third, Ed notes a surprise: Singapore was not as socially conservative as he expected. Sex shops were not uncommon, some women dressed surprisingly racily, and bars and booze seemed to be everywhere. All hope for Singapore is apparently not lost. Greg then makes a few observations about Canada. Surprisingly, he also noted scantily clad women in public. While the bare midriff is not uncommon in Bangkok, compared to most westernized places, Thai women dress fairly modestly. The frequency of tattoos was also more common, and worse, many of them looked pretty ugly, much to Greg’s chagrin, making him re-think his plan to get his own ink done. Greg also was reminded of a classic ‘nice’ Canadian practice: the friendly wave. While Thais are experts at smiling, the friendly wave is not really a Thai thing. If Greg has his way, though, he’ll bring this Canadian gem to Thailand, just like maple syrup! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E51 · Tue, August 01, 2023

Democracy in Asia: Its History, Variants and Purpose with Ajarn Ployjai Pintobtang, Part 2

This is part two of a two-part interview with Khun Ployjai Pintobtang, a lecturer in history at Chiang Mai University, about the history of democracy in Thailand and Asia. The discussion picks up where it left off, on the particular characteristics of Thai culture and society that might make it harder for democracy to take root. Greg begins by bringing up Ed’s frequent point that there’s essentially an ‘official’ Thailand, how Thai elites describe their country, that is often at odds with what everyone knows is really happening in the country. Ed furthers the point that almost all Thai elites will give the ‘right answer’: we want ‘real’ democracy in Thailand, but then the very same elites go on to enact anti-democratic Constitutions.  A. Ploy concurs with these assessments and notes the difficulty as a Thai person in remaining optimistic given the apparently cyclical nature of Thai politics, where the government comes close to being truly democratic, only to fall back down into true authoritarianism due some ‘crisis’ or another. A. Ed asks whether there is anything in the current political crisis that gives hope, and A. Ploy makes several points. The victory of Move Forward in the north of Thailand, the Pheu Thai stronghold, was unprecedented in the last 25 years. Also, the fact that Move Forward’s base is made up of the Bangkok middle class and above, yet is pushing for truly progressive reforms, is a first in Thai history. However, reasons for pessimism exist as well. A. Ploy argues that no true change can happen until the current Constitution is seriously amended, which will be difficult to do given the current makeup of the Senate. She also notes that the next Prime Minister will likely be from the Pheu Thai Party, and there’s no guarantee that Pheu Thai will really fight for the reformist agenda of the Move Forward Party now that K. Pita’s bid is finished.  All three participants agree there are many more issues to discuss, and undoubtedly more drama is to come on the Thai political scene. Hence, a return visit for A. Ploy to the podcast is likely! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E50 · Tue, July 25, 2023

Democracy in Asia: Its History, Variants and Purpose with Ajarn Ployjai Pintobtang, Part 1 [S6.E50]

This is Part One of a two-part interview with Khun Ployjai Pintobtang, a lecturer in history at Chiang Mai University, about the history of democracy in Thailand and Asia. Ed begins by asking A. Ploy her take on an old trope: that Asian culture is unsuited for democracy because of its foundations in Confucianism, which is well known for its fixed, hierarchical relationships. A. Ploy quickly counters that this idea is outdated given the relative success of democracy in countries such as South Korea, Taiwan and Japan. Ed wonders about Singapore, which seems stubbornly resistant to real democracy, but A. Ploy notes Singapore’s unique history and essentially one-party system.  Next, the conversation moves to possible pre-conditions for democracy: Can any country become a democracy at any time or does it have to reach a certain stage of development first? A. Ploy notes that there is no clear authority who should get to decide what those pre-conditions would be. Who has the right to decide that? Ed then points out that in 1776, less than ten percent of Americans could read and write, but somehow democracy managed to take hold. Greg then wonders if there is anything specific to Thai culture and society that might make it inappropriate for a democratic government. This leads to a lengthy discussion of Thai history, but in short, A. Ploy argues that Thai identity and nationalism has never truly contained democracy as a core element, thus complicating matters for democratic reformers. The three continue this in-depth discussion of democracy in Thailand on next week’s show. If you want to learn more, check out the book that A. Ploy contributed to here . Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E49 · Tue, July 18, 2023

What Age is the Best Age to Relocate to Thailand?

Greg and Ed debate the pros and cons of coming to Thailand at different ages, with the obvious caveat that there’s no right answer that applies to every person and that no matter when you come to the Land of Smiles, you can always (usually) make it work. Ed begins with the observation that early 20s might be the worst time, especially if you lack maturity and self-control - Thailand just has too many dangerous distractions. Greg notes that he managed to come in his mid-twenties and make it work but despite his friendly disposition, Greg is not much of a partier and avoided a lot of the typical pitfalls.  The guys then consider coming here to retire, an obviously popular idea in the public imagination. However, both Greg and Ed contend that although Thailand has some advantages - namely cheap living and quality healthcare - it also has many disadvantages, including laws and bureaucracy that are unfriendly to expats. OK but not great seems to be the Bangkok Podcast consensus on retiring in Thailand.  Greg then asks Ed what expats are the happiest he has met over the years. Ed relates that middle-aged guys with money, who already have been married with grown kids, seem to be the perfect fit for Thailand. Shock! Being single, with money, but with no need to find a lifelong partner is the best way to experience the Land of Smiles. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E48 · Tue, July 11, 2023

An Intro to Meditation and How it Works with Phra Pandit

Ed interviews our favorite expert on Buddhism, Phra Pandit. This time the focus is on meditation, exactly what it is, and what role it plays in the Buddhist religion as a whole. Phra Pandit begins with explaining the basic difference between meditation and prayer: meditation is a form of mental training in which the meditator focuses on an ‘object of meditation,’ such as the breath, and attempts to build up concentration and focus on that object.  However, meditation ultimately has a spiritual goal of ‘union with God’ or what Phra Pandit refers to as a ‘super mundane’ mental state. (And you thought the Bangkok Podcast was all about durian jokes.) Phra Pandit makes clear though that Buddhism as a religion is a very broad community and only a portion of Buddhist believers are seriously interested in meditation. Ed queries Phra Pandit about such issues as the scientific studies of mediation, the popularity of ‘mindfulness’ in the corporate world and whether it is good or bad, and the best way to begin a meditation practice. Some issues, such as the pros and cons of meditation retreats have to be left for another day, but be sure to listen in for future episodes.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E47 · Tue, July 04, 2023

The Where, Why & How Much of Choosing the Right Hospital

Greg and Ed discuss an important conundrum facing expats and tourists in Thailand: When sick or injured, should you go to a private Thai hospital or a public one? The difference in cost is substantial, typically somewhere between a factor of three and ten. For major procedures you probably want to spring for private care, if you can, but for ‘standard’ things like stitches and sprains, is a public hospital okay? Greg begins with the very recent story of his son needing stitches for a split lip. Greg and his wife got treatment for his son at Bumrungrad Hospital, which is known for its international standard of care, but also for its high cost, especially in Thailand. A split lip might seem fairly mundane and more appropriate for a government hospital, but there were other factors that necessitated special care. Luckily, the treatment went fine and all is well, but Greg’s experience highlights the difficult choices that expats face when it comes to medical care. Ed recounts a scary story of his wife getting into a motorbike accident and being taken to a nearby public hospital for emergency treatment. But due to the seriousness of her injury, his wife was going to need months of physical therapy with no guarantee of a full recovery. Ed decided to pull the ripcord and move to Bangkok Hospital, another facility renowned for quality care and high prices. At BH, Ed noted that the customer service was extremely high level with LOTS of handholding and explaining, which eased his anxiety considerably. But did his wife actually get better medical care? Ed is not really sure about that, but the care certainly FELT better.  Last, Greg does a quick interview with friend of the podcast Bangkok Pat, who unfortunately was recently bitten by a dog and thus in need of a quick decision on medical care. In his case, the proximity and convenience of a private hospital (and its higher cost) won out over the uncertainty of a government one, but he’s not sure he’d make the same call if it happened again. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E46 · Tue, June 27, 2023

Legal Talk: What to do if You Get Stopped by the Thai Police

Greg interviews resident legal expert Dave Lawrence about the ins and outs of interacting with police officers in Bangkok. The guys begin by going over the various options for run-ins with the boys in brown in Bangkok, which run the gamut of being stopped while walking down the street, while riding a motorbike, or while in a taxi or car at a checkpoint.  The guys run through their own personal experiences, which luckily turned out harmless enough.  Greg then queries Dave about a person’s exact rights in Thailand, and Dave goes through a helpful comparison and contrast with the United States, a good foil given the fact that most people understand how the U.S. works from movies and TV shows. Most relevantly, Dave notes that Thailand does not have an equivalent to America’s 4th Amendment, which means that the Thai police can pat you down or search you when you are encountered on the street. The guys then discuss various informal strategies to maybe wriggle your way out of an encounter, such as speaking only English with a police officer who speaks only Thai, hoping that the cop gives up out of frustration.  The guys then go into more specific questions, such as: Do Thai police have the right to stop you on the street and insist upon your tourist? Dave explains that the problem in Thailand is that these questions are not always answered explicitly in the law, unlike in the West. While urine tests seem to be within the power of the police during bar raids and at formal checkpoints, the authority for random tests is unclear. In this case, a person can always attempt to refuse, but how the police respond is anyone’s guess.   Welcome to a country where the rule of law is not as strong as back home, and not every question is answered in black and white - more like a shade of brown. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E45 · Tue, June 20, 2023

Expat Identity: Do You Really Want to be Treated Like a Thai?

Greg and Ed discuss whether or not they prefer to be treated the same as Thai people are treated. On the one hand, after living in Thailand for twenty years, the guys feel like they’ve ‘earned’ the right to be accepted into Thai society and be treated with the same respect a Thai person would be. Ed recounts his frustration with meeting Thai people who do not ‘wai’ him even after learning that he is an ajarn at a Thai university. On the other hand, to be TRULY Thai, the boys would also be subject to all the responsibilities of Thai people. More on that later. Greg checks in with two of his friends from work, Aum and Nonglak (thanks ladies!). In a short audio clip, they admit rarely if ever bowing to foreigners, but contend this is not intended as disrespect, but rather that farang are simply ‘outside’ of the Thai system and therefore may not understand the significance of various aspects of Thai culture. Ed confirms that his Thai friend also makes a similar point: when Thais interact with foreigners in Thailand, they simply do not consider them subject to the same rules as Thai people. In short, Thai cultural norms don’t apply to non-Thais, even inside of Thailand. The boys in the end note that in all fairness, if they demanded to be treated exactly the same as Thais, they also would have to fulfill all the obligations that ‘senior’ Thai people have. Ed notes that at his university, the Thai Ajarns must attend various ceremonies throughout the year, that he (as a foreigner) is exempt from. And Greg paints the literally uncomfortable picture of kneeling for hours, hands clasped, sweat rolling down your face, at various Buddhist blessings and ceremonies. Both guys agree that living in the ‘in-between’ zone of being able to opt into but also out of Thai culture is actually a pretty advantageous place to be.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E44 · Tue, June 13, 2023

Retouristing with Jim Cirillo: Using Thailand to Reinvent Yourself

Ed interviews his old friend Jim Cirillo, a good example of a repeat tourist (or re-tourist) to Thailand, the sizeable population of people all over the world who keep coming back to Thailand but for a variety of reasons have decided not to live here. A global Thailand fan club, if you will.  The guys begin by recounting Jim’s first visit to Thailand in 2002, when traffic was even more chaotic and elephants roamed the streets of Bangkok. Fast forward to 2016, and Jim returned to get a break from his high stress corporate lifestyle, and he more or less fell in love with the openness and relaxed nature of Thai society. It helped that Jim is a musician that he found the Bangkok music scene welcoming and savvy to western music such as jazz and blues.  His return also turned him on to the digital nomads working in Chiang Mai, a discovery that would eventually lead Jim to starting his own podcast about reinventing yourself in the digital age. Check out Jim Jim’s Reinvention Revolution here .  Thailand thus became a place for Jim to connect with interesting people who were hip to how technology was changing careers and the economy. Further, Jim explains how Bangkok is a fantastic hub for travel to other destinations, from Cambodia to the Philippines to Bali. The long and short of it: a re-tourist to Thailand was born. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E43 · Tue, June 06, 2023

Questions, Queries & Complaints About Bangkok's Transport Systems

Sparked by a recent news story , Greg and Ed consider the ways in which Thai public transportation misses the mark. Granted, both guys agree that overall, public transportation in Thailand is actually pretty good, and miles ahead of where it was when they got here. The MRT and BTS have expanded considerably in recent years, regional airports dot the country, and an extensive railway line spans the country. Nevertheless, certain quirks in the system just don’t make sense, and the boys decided to air their questions.  First, Greg mentions the news story about a missing link between two separate lines of the BTS that come oh so close but inexplicably lack a connection - not the first time this has happened. Ed laments that the different lines of both the BTS and MRT are really separate projects, with some but not really complete coordination, resulting in some perplexing gaps in the system.  Second, Ed brings up the long talked about plan for high speed rail in Thailand, noting that although the rail system in the country is quite extensive and very popular, it’s also very old and greatly in need of an upgrade.  The guys continue, discussing such issues as the lack of boat connections across the Gulf, the inability to take khlong boats from the city out into the Chao Phraya, and the lack of taxi boats from Bangkok to Paknam and out into the ocean. Listen in for the details. Last, Greg brings up a purely aesthetic point: why aren’t the pillars and undersides of the BTS used for art and graffiti? No doubt thousands of square meters of blank concrete would make great canvases for colorful and creative public displays of Thai artistic talent.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 Enull · Tue, May 30, 2023

The Roaming Cook On Thonburi’s Endless Old-School Food Options

Greg interviews Gary Butler or ‘The Roaming Cook’ about his YouTube channel and the wonders of food in Thonburi, the cool side of the Chao Praya River. Gary begins with some background information: he’s a native Londoner who had a career as a house painter (!) but who started a Thai food blog back in 2015. He eventually moved to Thailand and began a YouTube channel focusing on street food throughout the city. However the guys quickly focus on the Thonburi side of Bangkok, which Greg points out doesn’t get much love from restaurant guides about the city, citing this egregiously under-reported story . Gary notes the historical significance of Thonburi as the former capital of Thailand and (like Greg and Ed) defends the ‘Brooklyn’ of Bangkok as a great place to eat and live. Gary notes that while Sukhumvit has a lot of international options, it’s a little difficult to find a variety of good Thai food, whereas Thonburi is bursting with old-school Thai options.  Greg and Gary continue to extol the virtues of Thonburi. Although parts of it are modernizing, especially near the river, other parts have remained unchanged for decades, something that appeals to many Thai people and even some expats. Gary continues by going into the details of different sois and neighborhoods throughout Thonburi and their various culinary delights. Definitely check out Gary’s YouTube channel ‘The Roaming Cook’ but also take a day to wander the streets of Thonburi for a different Bangkok experience.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E41 · Tue, May 23, 2023

After the Election: A Look at What Happened and What's Next

Greg and Ed go over the election results, with Ed leading the way and doing his best to evaluate his pre-election predictions. First, Ed discusses the obvious way the election was NOT a surprise: the conservative parties (UTN, Palang Pracharath, and the Democrats) were destroyed as expected. If anything, their decimation was even worse than expected.  Second, Ed mentions how the election did involve somewhat of a shocker: the Move Forward Party overperformed and actually beat the Pheu Thai Party overall for total number of seats won. Ed notes that pre-election polls did show Move Forward gaining, but few people expected them to win outright. Why is this a big deal? Well, the Shinawatra spawned parties have won every election in Thailand since 2000, so these results do show a major shift in among the Thai electorate towards a Bangkok-based party. But significantly, Move Forward is a very progressive party, unlike the conservative Democrats who formerly dominated in Bangkok. So what grade does Ed give himself on his pre-election prognostications? Well, he did correctly note that Move Forward was gaining and the Bhuamjaithai was in general conservative despite their ‘progressive’ stance on cannabis. However, Ed thought that a coalition between Move Forward and Pheu Thai would be difficult to achieve, but in fact Pheu Thai pledged to join Move Forward immediately. Grade: C+. Greg kindly chimes in with a slightly more generous assessment of B-. But either way, this is an issue that we should all be watching very closely for the next little while.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E40 · Tue, May 16, 2023

When You're the Victim: Stories of Crime in Bangkok

Greg and Ed discuss their personal experiences as victims of crime in Bangkok. Greg opens with a recap of his recent bike theft story which has been discussed in more detail on the bonus show. Although the bike has yet to be retrieved, the Thai police were surprisingly responsive and professional. Greg then relates a couple encounters with pickpockets and an odd experience with an angry street kid. All in all, not bad for twenty years in a giant, teeming metropolis. Ed then talks about his experience living in a house on Sukhumvit Soi 1, very close to Bumgungrad Hospital which was undergoing expansion and thus necessitating a camp of laborers nearby. Unsurprisingly perhaps, Ed’s house was robbed three times, including once when his wife woke up and confronted a burglar. Other than that, Ed has managed to avoid any other encounters with crime in Bangkok, also not a bad record all things considered. The guys then go over the most high risk behavior that foreigners in Thailand can engage in, including frequenting crowded areas where foreigners are known to go (such as Khao San Road or Chatuchak Market) and not securing your belongings. This makes you easy prey for pickpockets who target non-Thai looking people in such areas, as this poor sap found out the hard way . The second risky move is interacting extensively with street people at night, especially bargirls and ladyboys, who have a reputation for being light-fingered. And last is fairly obvious: being very drunk late at night and taking long cab rides or cavorting with bar girls. No one is ‘blaming the victim,’ but it is undoubtedly a fact that certain activities in Bangkok are riskier than others. You have been warned. 🙂 Luckily, as has been stated on the podcast many times, most crimes against foreigners in Thailand are non-violent, at least compared to most big cities back home.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E39 · Tue, May 09, 2023

Blood Donation in Thailand: Explaining the Dire RH- Shortage

Greg interviews Ryan Cullinan of the Thailand RH- Blood Donation Facebook group . The guys open with a discussion of the nature of blood donation: everyone knows it exists, everyone knows they SHOULD do it, but due to lack of social pressure, many people never donate. Greg manned up though for this show and went and gave blood. Check out the pics of his adventure below. Ryan tells the story of how he got involved in blood donation in the first place. Long story short, a close friend of his in Thailand was in a motorbike accident and was seriously in need of blood for his treatment. His friend had an RH- blood type, which as Ryan explains, is much more common among Europeans than it is among Asians, putting people of European ancestry (as well as RH- Thais) at great risk of not being able to get the blood they need when in a Thai hospital. As a result of seeing his friend’s struggle - which, luckily, had a happy ending - Ryan set up his first FB group dedicated to convincing foreigners to donate blood in Thailand.  The guys continue by getting into some of the interesting facts of blood donation, including the unfortunate exclusion in the past of many people from the EU due to fears over Mad Cow disease. Most importantly, Ryan (and Greg) encourage listeners to head down to the National Blood Center at the Thai Red Cross Society in Bangkok to make your first donation. It’ll cost you nothing but some time, but you might literally save someone’s life. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E38 · Tue, May 02, 2023

An Election Looms: What Are the Major Political Parties Offering Thais?

In this show, Ed does his best to summarize the Thai political parties contesting the upcoming elections, as well as their various policy positions. As an overview, Ed notes a couple general themes. One is the possible return to power of the Pheu Thai party, the heir to the previous Thai Rak Thai party and Shinawatra clan. Thai people are not entirely sure whether they want to fully turn the page on the previous era in Thai politics, and this election will do a lot to settle this issue. Second, the populist handouts made famous (some would say infamous) by the Thai Rak Thai party are now practiced essentially universally by all parties, although the nature and extent of the ‘benefits’ may differ. A winning electoral strategy (however ‘infamous’) IS in fact a winning strategy, and none of the major parties have been able to resist the allure of easy promises.  Ed then does a quick run through of the six biggest parties in Thailand. Three parties can be said to represent the Thai establishment. The United Thai Nation party is a new party created to carry the banner of the current Prime Minister. It is thus conservative and nationalistic and represents a continuation of current policies. The Palang Pracharath stands for roughly the same things but offers a different former general as Prime Minister. The Democrat Party is the oldest political party in Thailand and represents the upper middle class elite of Bangkok, as well as a strong faction in the South.  Another three parties are anti-establishment, each in their own way. The Bhuamjaithai party made its name promoting the legalization of cannabis, and although they don’t technically support full recreational use, stand for a more liberal approach to the popular herb. The Move Forward party is a Bangkok-based progressive movement that makes the boldest claims for reforming the Thai military as well as the strict lese majeste laws. And finally, the aforementioned Pheu Thai largely represents the poor rural population, especially farmers, and uses a more socialist-style approach to managing the Thai economy. While currently the anti-establishment parties are polling well, it’s anybody's guess if the winning party will be able to form a coalition large enough to choose the Prime Minister. After nine years of more or less military rule, however, this election will for sure be consequential.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E37 · Tue, April 25, 2023

Is Bangkok a Livable City? We Compare it to 6 Urban Planning Benchmarks

In a unique episode, the guys take six characteristics of a ‘livable city’ (established by renowned urban planner Alex Garvin ) and give their own opinions on how Bangkok fares. Neither guy knows what the other is gonna say, so part of the fun is seeing where they agree and disagree. The first characteristic is that a city must be open to people with different backgrounds and goals. The guys roughly agree on this issue, with Greg giving Bangkok a score of 7 and Ed a score of 6. The second characteristic is having something for everyone, especially people of different economic classes. Here Ed gives Bangkok a very high score of 9, but Greg thinks it’s not that good with a 6. The third quality of a liveable city is that it can attract people and maintain demand. Once again, both guys give Bangkok high scores.  However, the fourth and fifth qualities cause some disagreement. Greg gives Bangkok a lower score for development than Ed does, and when it comes to providing a sustainable, livable environment, Ed’s score is average, but Greg’s is much lower. Last, the guys come back to a state of agreement on civil society in Bangkok, arguing it isn’t great but could also be a lot worse.  Who needs some science-y survey when you got two experts right here to tell you all how Bangkok ranks up? Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E36 · Tue, April 18, 2023

Fake vs Real: The Hidden Risks in Thailand's Counterfeit Economy

Greg interviews Wiramrudee ‘Pink’ Mokkhavesa, an attorney at the law firm of Tilleke & Gibbins in Bangkok. Tilleke is one of the most well-known firms in the city, and it is probably most famous for its intellectual property group, which leads the fight against counterfeit goods in Thailand and Asia. Khun Pink begins with a brief introduction to her firm, but then launches into an explanation of the ‘counterfeit museum’ located in their law offices which displays various fake products that the firm has helped keep off the market. According to K. Pink, Tilleke’s museum is the largest such museum in the world. She then explains the absurdly large market in counterfeits, which has been estimated at 2.5 percent of all global trade as early as 2019. Greg raises the interesting question of whether counterfeit goods are always harmful. If the consumer knows their ‘Gucci’ watch is not real, then who is being harmed? K. Pink gives several responses. First, due to lower quality, fake goods can actually be harmful, as in the case of decreased durability and likelihood of failure. Second, a market filled with counterfeits can discourage creators from taking the risks necessary to make new products. Third, companies making fake goods typically don’t pay taxes, thus depriving the government of revenue. And last, countries with a bad reputation for counterfeits can have trouble attracting foreign investment, thus hurting the economy as a whole. Then there is the question of - if you’re okay with shoes and watches, what about medicine and car parts ? Where does it end? The two continue their discussion of this complex issue, covering questions of the role of the Thai government in enforcing (or not enforcing) current laws to how K. Pink gives advice to clients considering doing business in Thailand. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E35 · Tue, April 11, 2023

The Pitfalls, Loopholes and Risks of Riding a Motorbike in Thailand

Greg and Ed take up the somewhat grim topic of motorbike accidents in Thailand. As this episode is essentially the Songkran episode for this year, the timing could not be more appropriate because more people die in road accidents during the ‘7 dangerous days’ around the holiday than during any other time of the year. Ed takes the lead and tries to break down the situation. First, Thai roads in general are just more dangerous than almost anywhere in the world, most likely due to lax enforcement of driving laws. So even if you are not on a motorbike, be very aware anytime you are near or crossing roads. Second, riding on the back of motorbikes is extremely common throughout the country, but especially in Bangkok and on tourist islands. But commonsense reveals that on a motorbike, you are considerably less protected than when in a proper automobile. Next, many foreigners choose to rent motorbikes and drive them themselves. This creates additional risk, unless you are someone very familiar with operating motorbikes or motorcycles. To make matters even worse, for many different reasons, health insurance often does not cover injuries that are a result of motorbike accidents. Possible reasons include blanket exceptions, not wearing a helmet, or not being properly licensed. The result can turn a dream holiday into a literal health and financial nightmare for tourists and expats (as well as their families). Read this story that Greg’s friend Karla wrote for CNN about her motorbike-from-hell story when she first visited Thailand. The Bangkok Podcast implores listeners to tell all their friends visiting Thailand to either avoid motorbikes entirely or to guarantee they have proper health insurance coverage.  Have fun this holiday but always be safe. :)  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E34 · Tue, April 04, 2023

Hot Thai Kitchen's Pailin Talks About Thai Food, Western Tastes & Her New Cookbook

Greg interviews Pailin Chongchitnant of Hot Thai Kitchen , a returning guest from Season 3, Episode 4. Pailin begins with a basic introduction to her YouTube channel: she de-mystifies Thai cuisine (and how to cook it) to the English-speaking world. Each video typically encompasses one complete recipe, and she takes pains to make sure the steps are friendly to beginners as well as more advanced chefs. Further, she provides ingredient alternatives when specific Thai things might be hard to find for the average Western shopper. Greg asks how her videos have changed over the years, and Pailin notes that she has expanded into ‘topic’ videos, given that she already has videos that cover most Thai dishes. She has recently made videos on how to choose the proper Thai curry, how to navigate an Asian grocery store, and even how to correctly eat Thai food with a spoon (rather than a fork).  Following up on an issue from the last time she was on the podcast, Pailin contends that the situation for Thai food in North America has actually improved in the last few years, partly due to a welcome shift towards crediting people of color with their contributions to the restaurant industry.  Greg wraps up the interview with a few questions from our patrons for the Thai food expert.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E33 · Tue, March 28, 2023

Thai Politics: Where We Are, Why We’re Here, and What’s Coming Next

Greg begins by explaining the momentous time we live in: soon there will be a general election in the Land of Smiles. He turns to Ed, allegedly a professor of political science, to give a primer (long ‘i’) on the upcoming election scene, but with a focus on how we got here in the first place.  Ed begins by going all the way back to the elections of 2000, when Thailand was reeling from the economic crisis of 1997 and straddled with billions of dollars of debt to the IMF. On to the scene marched a nouveau riche Thai billionaire, Thaksin Shinawatra, who confidently promised to repay the government’s debts early (which he did, as a matter of fact). Thaksin formed a surprisingly broad coalition of Isaan farmers and a fairly sizable chunk of the Bangkok middle class. After an economically successful but otherwise controversial first term, he was re-elected in 2004 in more or less a landslide. However, this apparent ‘success’ led to a backlash in the form of a coup d'etat from a conservative establishment in 2006, followed by years of political turmoil. After Thaksin’s sister Yingluck won an election in 2012, another coup followed in 2014. Since then, the military has held a firm grasp on the government, but lo and behold, Thaksin’s daughter Paetongtarn is the leading candidate in the upcoming election. The more things change, the more they stay the same in modern Thai politics. Greg and Ed discuss whether or not any of this really matters to expats in Thailand. We can’t vote, so why bother going deep? The guys offer differing perspectives on the issue, leaving it up to each expat to decide on their own.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E32 · Tue, March 21, 2023

Authors Paul & Yuangrat Wedel Discuss the History of Radicalism in Thailand - Part 2 [S6.E32]

This is the second part of a two part interview with Paul and Yuangrat Wedel, longtime scholars and writers on Thai history and society. The first part of the interview focused on the roots of radicalism in Thai politics, especially the cultural impact of the Hindu ‘sakdina’ system. The second part begins with a discussion of the 1932 coup that led to the dissolution of absolute monarchy.  Paul explains the education of both Pridi Banomyong and Phibul Songkhram in France, and their desire to bring Western liberal ideas to Siam. Pridi, the civilian, took a particularly leftist view of economics and tried to indoctrinate those views in the first Thai constitution. Subsequently, after the split between Pridi and Phibul, Pridi’s more radical views were used against him and played a role in his eventual exile from Thailand.  The conversation continues to cover the rise of the military in Thai politics, the role of satire in Thai society, the student uprisings of the 1970s, and eventually to the more recent protests against the current military-backed government. Has anything really changed? If not, is there reason for optimism? Listen in for the views of two true experts on Thailand with a genuinely long view of Thai history.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E31 · Tue, March 14, 2023

Authors Paul & Yuangrat Wedel Discuss the History of Radicalism in Thailand - Part 1

Greg and Ed interview a fascinating and very erudite couple, Paul and Yuangrat Wedel. Paul, a native of New Jersey, met Yuangrat, a native of Nakhon Si Thammarat, in Bangkok in the late 1970s and through various twists and turns ended up both getting advanced degrees in the States and carrying on a romance and eventually getting married. (Their daughter, documentary filmmaker Pailin Wedel, is a former guest of the show , as is Pailin’s husband Patrick ).  After setting up their life in Thailand, with Yuangrat working as a professor at Thammasat University and Paul doing NGO work, they decided to use Yuangrat’s PhD dissertation as the basis for a book about radical politics in Thai history. Greg and Ed query Paul and Yuangrat about the fascinating story of Marxism and socialism in Thai history, something many Thais are entirely ignorant of. Yuangrat traces its origins back to the ‘sakdina’ system, a complex social hierarchy imported into Thai culture through the influence of Hinduism based on land owndership. This system created a clear separation between social classes, providing a fertile breeding ground for later far left politics that sought to free the lower working classes from the higher privileged classes. This leads to an engrossing discussion of the rise of Chinese merchants in Thai society, the effect foreign radical thought had on a groundbreaking Thai journalist, and eventually to the movement for constitutional monarchy in Thailand.  Listen in if you are curious to hear a discussion on an often forgotten but truly interesting part of Thai history, and check back for part 2 next week. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E30 · Tue, March 07, 2023

Bangkok vs the World: Reading the Data to See How We Stack Up [S6.E30]

Greg and Ed look at a few recent world rankings to see where Thailand fits into a world with nearly two hundred different countries. First, Greg brings up the ‘Global Power City Index ,’ a comprehensive ranking of 48 large cities around the world that focuses on a city’s ‘magnetism’ or ability to attract visitors and expats. Greg outlines some of the factors measured, including livability, environment, economy and cultural interaction. Ed guesses that Bangkok will probably rank fairly low based on these criteria due to the bad traffic, air pollution, and relative lack of cultural resources. Greg reveals that in fact Bangkok ranks 40th out of 48. The guys discuss the fairness of the rankings and compare Bangkok to closely ranked cities such as Tel Aviv and Kuala Lumpur. Greg and Ed consider the ‘low’ ranking fair with the caveat that the competition is stiff and certainly doesn’t imply Bangkok is not worth a visit.  Next, Greg brings up the Internations Expat City ranking which claims that 79% of expats in Bangkok are satisfied with living in the city. Both guys consider this an impressive showing. The Forbes ‘Quit Your Job and Move Abroad’ list is next, and Thailand ties with Italy as the ninth best country in the world to escape to.  Last, Greg and Ed take issue with a survey that listed Thailand as the 4th cheapest country in the world to visit. Ed notes that this can only be true with multiple caveats, especially the fact that the actual poorest/cheapest countries in the world are places that no one would really want to visit anyway. And Greg notes that general ratings of Thailand can be misleading because the cost of visiting Bangkok or tourist venues throughout the country is significantly more expensive than the ‘real’ Thailand that most Thais live in. So for most visitors, they are unlikely to find the cheap prices mentioned in the article.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E29 · Tue, February 28, 2023

Richard Barrow on Twitter Trolls, Upset Officials & Train Guides

This is Part 2 of our epic interview with Richard Barrow, giant among expats in Thailand. In the second half of the discussion, Richard continues with explaining his slow rise as a ‘citizen journalist,’ first simply documenting his travels around Thailand, but eventually becoming a chronicler for English-speakers of daily events in the country. The yellow and red shirt political struggles and natural disasters such as the floods of 2011 meant that the expat community was in serious need of a dedicated, competent, native English speaker with knowledge of both Thai language and Thai culture. And Richard fit the bill. The guys also try to dissect Richard’s motivations, given his very little effort to monetize all the work he does outside of his main job. Richard’s explanation is simple: he likes reporting on stuff in Thailand and does it simply as a public service. Greg and Ed do their best to try to understand how and why this makes people’s heads explode and can come up with only one explanation besides “people suck”: the anonymous power the Internet gives you.  Last, Richard explains his obsession with Thailand’s rail lines, and the Thai government’s subsequent interest in that obsession. Check out the resulting collaboration here. https://www.thaitrainguide.com/ Who knows, but now that Richard’s notorious reluctance to give interviews has been broken, he MAY become an annual guest on the podcast. We can only hope. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E28 · Tue, February 21, 2023

Richard Barrow on Life in Samut Prakan and Finding a Niche Online

Greg and Ed meet the icon Richard Barrow in Samut Prakan and interview him about his unusual life in Thailand. Richard begins by explaining his life roaming Asia as a young man on his way to Australia. By chance he made some connections in Thailand at a small Thai school in Samut Prakan, leading to a quaint few weeks experiencing ‘real’ Thai culture, wholly separate from the normal touristed locations. The memory stuck with him and he subsequently returned to become a teacher at the school, and well, he’s stayed there for over thirty years, never succumbing to the allure of Bangkok or the more typical paths of expats.  After some prodding, Richard explains his background as an IT guy who got into building websites and blogging early, documenting his daily life in a provincial Thai town on the sea, as well as his numerous travels around Thailand. He was also an early adopter of Twitter and as his popularity grew, he began documenting current events throughout Thailand, but especially the political protests of the late naughts and early teens and the floods of 2011. It turns out that his style of straightforward stick-to-the-facts ‘reporting’ plus his knowledge of Thai language and culture was a winning formula to say the least. Richard became the ‘go to’ guy for thousands - and then tens, and then hundreds of thousands - of Thais, expats and tourists alike who wanted an on-the-ground voice to give them some insight into what was going on in Thailand. Check out Part 2 of the interview next week when Richard gets into his stubborn refusal to monetize his success and why he is viewed as ‘controversial’ by some netizens.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E27 · Tue, February 14, 2023

What Does ChatGPT's Artificial Intelligence Make of Bangkok?

Unless you’ve been living under a rock lately, you’ve probably heard of ChatGPT, a brand new AI writing tool that produces some shockingly advanced stuff. It’s only a few months old but it’s already threatening to upend a number of industries in a big way. So, in a slightly odd show that shows how technologically hip the Bangkok Podcast is, Greg and Ed discuss ChatGPTs take on Bangkok and Thailand, Greg queries the new search engine with a host of questions about the Land of Smiles to see how much it really knows. The AI manages to write a couple different introductions to the podcast, one more positive and one more sarcastic. Both display excellent English and solid basic knowledge of Thailand. When Greg pushes AI to write a poem about Bangkok, both guys are shocked at how ‘not bad’ the result is.. A+ honors high school English? Probably not. Passably average junior high level? For sure! The guys discuss the shocking rate at which the AI has improved over the last year and ponder what the future will bring. Greg also notes the limitations of the system: results tend to be factually accurate, but not always complete, and over time, somewhat repetitive.  The boys also discover that the powers that be have given the AI ‘guard rails,’ for lack of a better term: the system won’t discuss potentially controversial topics such as prostitution, ladyboys, or even Bangkok nightlife in general. All in all, ChatGPT is amazing at what it can do, but the output in the end is neither super interesting nor super fun, and certainly not ‘dangerous’ in any way.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E26 · Tue, February 07, 2023

Talking Acting & American Grub with Actor "Poo" Boonthanakit

Ed interviews Sahajak “Poo” Boonthakit, Thai actor and entertainer. K. Poo begins by explaining his unusual childhood: his father was a Thai diplomat and when Poo was a young boy his family moved to Nairobi, Kenya, where Poo would spend the next 11 years. Poo discusses life in Kenya among Africans and Indians and white ‘colonialists,’ but also the incredible natural phenomena of the African savannah. However, in high school, Poo’s family would move to New York, where he at first became more American but then later learned ‘how to be Thai’ from the tight knit community of Thai expats in the city. Ed asks Poo about his history as an entertainer, and Poo explains that in Nairobi his brothers formed an acting troupe that performed on stage at school and in the city. In New York, Poo continued by becoming a singer and guitar player at local Thai restaurants.  In the late 1990s, Poo returned to Thailand with his Filipino wife, and they started The Garage, one of the first American burger joints in Bangkok. Through a stroke of luck, their young son was cast in a commercial and Poo landed the role of the father (he was a natural at it). :) This led to a fascinating career acting in films, from “The Beach” with Leonardo DiCaprio to “Brokedown Palace” with Claire Danes, up until the very recent “Thirteen Lives” directed by Ron Howard. Poo tells the story of his amazing three month shoot in Australia with the famous director and luminaries such as Viggo Mortenson and Colin Farrell. And The Garage is still going strong after twenty plus years! Poo invites all podcast listeners to join him for some American grub at the corner of Sukumvit 32 and Sukumvit Road.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E25 · Tue, January 31, 2023

Is Thailand Really the "Land of the Free"?

Greg and Ed get all deep by asking the question “Is Thailand really the Land of the Free?” And what does “freedom” even mean? Many people know that the word ‘Thailand’ is supposed to translate as the ‘Land of the Free.’ The guys first discuss the etymology of the word, with both Google and linguist friends revealing the actual provenance of that translation is unknown, and it’s possible that it is more of a folk belief than something linguistically legitimate.  So how about in real life? Walking down the streets of Bangkok, do Greg and Ed feel more free than they would if they were back in Canada or the U.S.? Greg notes that the word ‘free’ is difficult to define and means different things to different people. Ed argues that from a purely political standpoint, America is probably the most free country in the world, but here’s the rub: not everyone really cares about the freedom to criticize your government without fear of punishment.  The guys consider the possibility that on a practical level, due to Thailand’s chill culture and ‘hands-off’ approach by the police, Thailand might be more free than Western countries in the ways that most people care about. The issue is a tricky one of course: the rule of law is a pain when you get stopped for a traffic offense, but a godsend when you are the victim of a crime. Greg and Ed do their best to examine the issue, but both admit then in at least some ways, Thailand does live up to its famous moniker.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E24 · Tue, January 24, 2023

Bangkok’s Dark Side: Justin Dunne on His Creepy “Bangkok Haunt” Tours

Greg interviews Justin Dunne of ‘Bangkok Haunt ,’ a tour company in Bangkok that focuses on Thai ghost stories and their relevant locations. Justin is an old friend of Greg’s and after trading a few stories of the old days, the guys get into their mutual love of the city of Bangkok but also their mutual fascination with Thai spirit houses. Justin explains that his interest in Thai people’s supernatural beliefs led to a study of Thai ghost stories especially as they relate to the city of Bangkok. Fans of the podcast will already know that ghost stories are a pillar of Thai culture and history, and all Thais are familiar with a pantheon of ghosts and their stories.  This led Justin to develop a tour of Bangkok that focuses on these ghost stories. Greg is a bit shocked to learn that the tour is 9 hours long, but Justin notes that it’s both physically and emotionally taxing, given the ‘dark’ nature of some of the stories. In other words, this is NOT a superficial exposure to Thai ghost culture; go big or go home appears to be the Bangkok Haunt motto.  The guys go into details on the breadth of the tour, which includes ghosts, spirits, and ‘dark history,’ or locations in Bangkok where tragedies have occurred. Although not for the faint of heart, anyone interested in a REAL introduction to a key part of Thai history and culture should check out Bangkok Haunt .  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E23 · Tue, January 17, 2023

What Do You Miss Most About Thailand? Overseas Listeners Let Us Know [S6.E23]

In a special listener voicemail show, Greg and Ed discuss what listeners miss most about Thailand. The guys go through a bunch of different messages, each expressing a unique characteristic of the Land of Smiles that keeps them pining for more. Starting off is Erich, with classic praise for Thai people themselves, which may be the country’s greatest asset. A little further down the list is Jett from Los Angeles, with a unique lament for the Ministry of Rural Roads (actually Department of Rural Roads, but same same), which keeps Thailand’s country roads in excellent shape for his motorcycle adventures. Another interesting take comes from Paul, who misses the intensity and colorfulness of the Thai promotions that dot Thailand’s malls and commercial landscape. At the end, our old friend Evo and podcast master himself gives a heartfelt call out to his days as the co-host of the Bankgok Podcast! Awww! (Sniffle, sniffle). Check out all of our listeners’ takes on the full episode, and many thanks to everyone who sent in a voicemail!  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E22 · Tue, January 03, 2023

The Extraordinary Life of the Siamese Twins: Chang and Eng Bunker

We dive back into history with the remarkable story of Chang and Eng Bunker, more famously known as the Siamese Twins. Born and raised in Samut Songkhram province just south of Bangkok, they had a fateful encounter with a Scottish trader by the name of Robert Hunter - himself an interesting fellow - and their lives were never the same. Siam at the time was little more than a vague backwater “somewhere in Asia” and because of their unique condition, the twins agreed to follow Hunter to the US and go on tour. It was not an easy life, as they fought against racial stereotypes and the fear that people of the time had against anyone with such an unusual condition, but they persevered, learning English and eventually striking out on their own to control their own destinies. This was just the beginning of a remarkable adventure that saw them get into bar brawls, argue with doctors, travel the world, and find fame, fortune and love. Check out the episode of Mobituaries here , which visits one of the Bunker family reunions, as well as this trailer for a TV show called Extraordinary Siamese Story: Chang and Eng . Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E21 · Tue, December 27, 2022

Ed Gets Schooled: Linguist Stu Jay Raj Critiques a Thai Conversation Part 2

In Part Two of Ed’s Thai lesson with guru Stu Jay Raj, the two push through Ed’s sample Thai conversation. Stu continues to emphasize the importance of proper pronunciation of vowels, even going so far as to say it is more important than tones themselves. But Stu also gives several examples of Ed using sentence structures borrowed directly from English that, while grammatically correct in Thai, do not sound natural to native speakers. Additionally, Ed has a habit of using phrases that could tip off a Thai person to the fact that Ed learned his early Thai in the bars of lower Sukhumvit Road, which is not exactly known as a bastion of erudition among Thais.:) The lesson concludes with a discussion of the value of learning Thai from a teacher that speaks English and understands how native English speakers form sentences. Native Thai speakers have obvious advantages, of course, but that doesn’t mean they are the best teachers in every situation. Listen in for some expert advice on learning Thai as a second language. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E20 · Tue, December 20, 2022

Ed Gets Schooled: Linguist Stu Jay Raj Critiques a Thai Conversation

Ed goes back to school and gets a Thai lesson from the master himself, Stu Jay Raj. Ed recounts a common backstory, wherein he made serious effort to learn Thai during his first two years in Thailand - and even ended up marrying his Thai language teacher! But after that, he more or less plateaued and is looking for a way to jump start (or jump ‘re-start’) his Thai language learning.  In Part One of a two part series, Stu analyzes a short conversation Ed recorded with a Thai friend, Anna from Lampang. Stu brings out the microscope and focuses on Ed’s failure to grasp the ‘glottal stop’ and its function in Thai language. In short, many Thai consonants are voiced in the back of the throat and don’t involve pushing air out of the front of the mouth. After practicing a bit, Ed makes some headway, but he’s got a lot of work to do. Next, Stu points out that Ed’s Thai vowels are haphazard in length, when precision with vowels is a key to Thai comprehension. Stu notes that often foreigners get obsessed with tones, which are undoubtedly important, when they should be focusing more on clear pronunciation of vowels, which add ‘color’ to a word.  Stu’s advice is pointed, but even in this short lesson, Ed manages to make some progress. In Part Two, Stu delves into other issues such as word choice and ‘prosody’ or the rhythm at which someone speaks.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E19 · Tue, December 13, 2022

A Lawyer’s Take on Thailand’s Controversial Foreign Land Ownership Law [S6.E19]

Greg interviews Bangkok-based lawyer Dave Lawrence about the ins and outs of foreigners owning land in Thailand. Dave begins with his backstory: he went to law school in Ohio where he met his future wife while she was getting a master's degree (also in law), and upon graduating they returned to Thailand for what was expected to be two years. That has now turned into 12 years, and in the meantime Dave has worked several different legal jobs at law firms as well as private companies. Dave then explains his current venture: Pegleg, a company that matches foreigners in Thailand with Thai lawyers and law firms.  Dave then introduces us to the basics of foreigners owning property in Thailand. As for condos, it’s possible as long as less than 50% of the ‘saleable land’ in the building is owned by foreigners. However, in general, owning real property (actual land) is forbidden to foreigners - but there are some well-known (but questionably legal) workarounds. Some foreigners start a company with majority Thai ownership and then have the company purchase the land. Dave points out that this is a risky maneuver and potentially illegal if the Thai owners are just ‘nominees’ instead of true owners.  Next, the guys discuss the recent (and recurring) talk of amending the law to allow foreign ownership in some cases. Dave argues that such efforts are usually met with skepticism in the legal community because of their history of being met with xenophobic opposition, i.e. fear of foreigners ‘buying up the country.’ The two discuss the pros and cons of foreign ownership and whether they think it will ever come to pass for real.  As for now, if you are a foreigner and want to own your home in Thailand, it’s condos or trusting your Thai spouse.:)  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E18 · Tue, December 06, 2022

Un-Jaded: Seeing Bangkok’s Best Through New Eyes

In a show fueled by a visit by Greg’s mother, the guys discuss first impressions of Bangkok, and whether or not they have become jaded as long term expats. Greg includes a short interview with his mom, but bases the show on all of her insights over the last few weeks as a relative newbie in Bangkok. First, Greg mentions that his mom finds Thailand very colorful, whether it’s clothes, art, taxis, or restaurants. At first the guys are a bit skeptical, but as they run through the examples they realize that Ma’s got a point. Next, the boys discuss the newbie take that Thailand is filled with individualism and creativity. On this point, Ed disagrees directly, noting the number of shops and restaurants that are essentially copies of each other, but Greg notes that his mom was focusing on fashion and art, with many small boutiques and stalls focusing on small collections of uniquely designed products.  The next issue gets a general agree from both Greg and Ed as his mom has been struck by how consistently friendly Thais are. Yup! Last, Greg brings up that his mom really appreciated the exotic and varied architecture of Thailand. Ed agrees that it is eclectic no doubt, but also points out that in places it can be a random hodge podge.  In short, any long-term expat could do with a “dose of Mom” and learn to appreciate the little things Bangkok has to offer when they start to fade into the background. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E17 · Tue, November 29, 2022

Promoting Plant-Based Sustainable Living in Bangkok [S6.E17]

Ed interviews Max and Jo Hellier of Root the Future, a small social enterprise based in Bangkok that promotes sustainable living and plant-based diets. Max and Jo begin with their origin story: Jo, a vegan and former model, and Max, a ‘video dude,’ developed a business concept for a boutique hotel in Thailand that had to be abandoned during COVID. Subsequently, they combined their talents and started producing social media content expressing their concerns over climate change and their preference for a plant-based diet. One thing led to another and soon ‘Root the Future’ was born. (Don’t ask about the name - just roll with it.) Their Instagram-friendly content soon developed a large following among expats in Thailand, and over time they developed relationships with Thai partners, including vegan restaurants and local producers of plant-based food. Max and Jo explain that their driving ethos is ‘accessibility’: showing that being planet friendly is quite an easy thing to do, simply by moving what you eat more in the direction of plants as opposed to animal products.  The couple discuss their love of Thai food and how easily it can be converted to being wholly vegan, the pros and cons of ‘jay’ food in Thai culture and society, and their promotion of sustainability ‘markets’ that, god forbid, are NOT the same as farmer’s markets.  Check into their Instagram feed at instagram.com/rootthefuture/ or their website at www.rootthefuture.com to see some quality planet-loving content by two expats in Thailand.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E16 · Tue, November 22, 2022

Bangkok Taxis: New Solutions for Old Problems

Greg and Ed discuss a topic first brought up in a bonus show back in season 2: what to do about taxi drivers who won’t take you where you want to go? Although there are no doubt many larger problems in Thailand, on a day to day basis, perhaps recalcitrant taxi drivers are the most annoying.  Ed runs through a gamut of possible solutions. The first is simply to somehow enforce the current law, which already requires taxis to accept all riders. The guys admit that simple enforcement may be the biggest obstacle to overcome, because no solution is viable without it. But Ed has some twists that could be added to the current regulations. Why not have two types of cabs, one that must accept all riders that gets paid at a higher rate, and one that can deny riders but gets a lower rate? Greg and Ed debate the pros and cons of this solution. Another option would be to simply allow drivers to switch the color of their light during the last hour of their ride, signally that they now have the right to refuse riders. Greg then brings up one of Ed’s old ideas, to put a QR code on all taxis that would allow for a proper feedback system for all cabs in Bangkok. That way before getting in, you would know the driver’s reputation for accepting riders. Are these ideas all pie in the sky? Well, maybe, but as that old great funk song says, you have to free your mind before your ass can follow. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E15 · Tue, November 15, 2022

MuvMi’s Electric Tuk-Tuks Want to Change How Bangkokians Get from A to B

Greg interviews Tim Koncewicz from electric tuk-tuk company MuvMi to chat about their mission to provide a safe and environmentally clean alternative to gas-powered tuk-tuks. Unlike normal taxis and old-school automobiles (pfft), MuvMi focuses on ‘microtransit,’ which means moving people within local communities instead of across town. So MuvMi might take you from one part of your neighborhood to a nearby location, or to the BTS or MRT for a longer ride. The company already has 300 vehicles around Bangkok and hopes to expand to 600 by the end of the year.  Greg asks Tim a number of questions about what obstacles the company has faced, where and how they charge their vehicles, dealing with competition, what it’s like dealing with Bangkok’s, er…somewhat rambunctious existing groups of transportation drivers, and educating customers about the service which not only doesn’t include long trips but also involves ridesharing, in which others may join along in your ride if they are going in the same direction.  The guys continue by delving into further details of this fascinating business model which could possibly be on the cusp of a revolution in transportation options in Bangkok, a revolution which no doubt is sorely needed.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E14 · Tue, November 08, 2022

Expat Confessions: Things We Should Have Done by Now, But Haven't [S6.E14]

Greg and Ed bare their souls with ‘expat confessions’: things in Thailand they are embarrassed to say they have never seen or done, but that they should have, given their years in the Kingdom.  Ed begins by admitting he’s never travelled to Laos, Burma or Malaysia, despite them being right next door and highly recommended. Greg talks about some of his trips and agrees, it’s a pretty startling omission, especially Laos, which almost everyone agrees is worth a visit. Ed vows to make it right. Greg confesses he’s never been to legendary late night establishment Wong’s, which may have lost some of its luster but which used to be a MUST go - just not for Greg, apparently. Ed follows that he’s never been to Sukhothai, despite his love of ancient temples and all the photography opportunities. Greg then talks about never having scuba dived, even though it is on the list of almost all expats and a lot of tourists. Ed discusses his PADI class and argues that it lives up to the hype. Ed last laments he’s never been to Pai, even though it’s the hippie capital of Thailand and therefore the home of his tribe. Greg talks about his adventures there many years ago filming a movie. Greg finishes up by confessing that he’s never taken a Thai cooking class or even cooked Thai food. Not everyone likes to cook, but in twenty years one would think Greg could have gotten around to it. To the kitchen! We close with some confessions from our listeners, ranging from khlong boats to muay Thai to temples. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E13 · Tue, November 01, 2022

Buddhist Scholar Justin McDaniel Discusses the History & Meaning of Thai Amulets

Greg interviews Buddhist scholar Justin McDaniel on the topic of Buddhism amulets. Justin is a true scholar of religion, especially Asian religions such as Buddhism and Hinduism, but he developed a strong interest in Buddhist amulets after he visited Thailand for the first time when he was a young man.  Greg asks Justin what actually makes an amulet special, and Justin goes into a lengthy explanation of the ‘recipes’ and ‘ingredients’ that go into an amulet’s construction, from very specific types of soil to various prayers and incantations that are made when it is created. Some amulets even contain flakes of gold from statues of famous monks or in some cases, even the blood of the monk himself.  Greg and Justin continue and discuss such interesting topics as how the value of amulets is determined, the relationship between amulets and relics, the role that myth and mystery play in the popularity of amulets, and the sometimes crass commercialization in the amulet industry.  Listen in for a fascinating discussion with a true expert in a rarely studied field.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook, Twitter, and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E12 · Tue, October 25, 2022

Bangkok in Memoriam: A Look Back at a Few Places We Miss the Most

Every Bangkok newbie has places that are near and dear to them, and which play a role in their early days of getting settled and finding your groove in Bangkok. Greg and Ed discuss some of these Bangkok institutions that meant a lot to them in their early days, but have since been torn down and paved over. Ed notes that Bangkok is famous for turnover in the restaurant and bar space, but certain places do stand the test of time: Saxophone Pub on Victory Monument for example. Unfortunately, a bunch of places Greg and Ed THOUGHT they would be enjoying forever subsequently closed.  Ed begins by discussing the somewhat eccentric Check Inn 99, a ‘cabaret’-style bar that used to be on Sukhumvit between Soi 3 and 5. An entire show would be needed to explain its unique place in Bangkok nightlife; suffice it to say both Bing Crosby and Frank Sinatra once partied there. Greg then talks about the classic pub The Dubliner, that seemed to embody all the positive traits that Irish pubs are famous for.  Listen in to this somewhat nostalgic look at Bangkok of old as the guys discuss such fabled establishments as Woodstock bar in Nana Plaza, Suan Lum Night Bazaar, Sukhumvit Soi Zero, and the grand Scala Theater. Can these places be replaced? Not exactly, but the guys discuss the available options.  And for more nostalgic places from yesteryear, check out Justin Dunne’s post on Twitter . Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E11 · Tue, October 18, 2022

Cause & Effect: The Thailand Clean Air Network Talks Health and Poison Air

Greg interviews Khun Weena from the Thailand Clean Air Network , a guest who previously appeared on Episode 66 of Season 4, when Thailand was in the middle of a crazy air pollution crisis. Since then K. Weena and her organization have been hard at work preparing reports for the government on the status of air quality in Thailand. In fact, her group has recently finished a 700 page green paper outline solutions for the Thai government to pursue. Weena outlines the extensive research she helped organize to prepare the report, which involved consulting with experts in multiple fields and trying to find realistic solutions that suit different entities. She explains that the report outlines steps for the government and private sector companies to take, but also responsibilities that best lie with the general public.  Greg compliments K. Weena on the almost insane comprehensiveness of the report, but plays devil’s advocate: How do we know that the government will take the advice in the report seriously and actually make changes? K. Weena notes that their research focused on very actionable items, not pie-in-the-sky proposals that are politically infeasible. Further, air pollution in Thailand exacts massive costs on the public in the form of increased health care costs, and smart politicians who want to win elections should realize that people don’t want to get sick and go broke on their treatment.  Listen in for further discussion of Thailand’s air quality issues with a true professional.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E10 · Tue, October 11, 2022

Is Thailand a Woke-Free Zone?

Greg and Ed open up a can of snakes (this is Thailand after all) and discuss whether Thailand is a ‘woke-free’ zone. The guys begin by realizing that the word ‘woke’ itself does not have a very clear meaning. Depending on who you are, ‘woke’ could mean a woman being paid the same as a man, being cool with varied genders, races, and religions, or someone who has taken victimhood to an extreme and become worse than the problem it’s trying to solve.  That being said, the guys do have some takes. Ed thinks that in many ways Thailand will prove to be immune to the extreme forms of ‘wokeness,’ simply because Thais by their nature do not take offense very easily. As has been discussed many times on the podcast, Thais are very easy going by nature and tend to laugh off almost everything, outside of a few narrowly defined ‘no go’ zones. It’s hard to play the victim card if you simply don’t care much what people say or do and leave them to their devices. Greg largely concurs and notes that Thailand has been making progress in the reasonable areas of what some people consider ‘woke,’ such as women’s, gay, and trans rights.  Listen in for an interesting discussion of how a complex topic that has largely been restricted to western societies might be seen through a Thai lens. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E9 · Tue, October 04, 2022

Amy Lefevre Joins to Talk Careers, Cliques and Finding Your Level in Bangkok

With interest in Thailand returning to pre-pandemic levels and the podcast getting an increasing number of emails asking for advice on living and working here, Greg interviews old acquaintance Amy Lefevre, a half-Thai British woman, on her unique career journey in Asia and what they’ve both learned about finding (and keeping!) a job in Bangkok.  The two begin with the importance of language skills and the difficulty of competing with educated Thais who typically have decent English, and then segues into an interesting topic: Is it easy for foreigners to get jobs inside Thailand outside of the cliched fields of teacher, IT staff, NGO staff and digital nomad? Amy argues that in Bangkok, foreigners who work in these fields tend to socialize together, almost creating cliques that can be difficult to break into (or out of). Further, expats often hit a ‘ceiling’ in their late 20s or early 30s where they feel they cannot advance their careers without leaving Thailand. Greg notes that the Thai bureaucracy that governs expats in the end closes the off to the energy and creativity of thousands of foreigners who could be boosting the economy, employing locals, and injecting Thai society with new ideas that could really catapult the country into true first world status along with Singapore and Hong Kong.  Listen in for an in depth discussion of the pros and cons of trying to make your career in the Land of Smiles.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E8 · Tue, September 27, 2022

The Best Apps for Making Life in Thailand Fun and (Dare We Say It) Easy

Greg and Ed dive into the crowded App and Play stores to discuss the various phone apps that make living in Bangkok easier. Greg begins by giving props to our excellent listeners who submitted a whole bunch of recommendations - so much, in fact, that we simply weren’t able to cover them all! Ed confesses that he relies primarily on Google Maps and Google Translate for countless day-to-day functions, but he mentions that he recently stumbled upon an app called BMA Traffic that has live feeds from traffic cameras around the city. Worth checking into as an addition to Google Maps traffic info. Greg then runs through a myriad of different applications from transportation apps such as Bolt, inDriver, and ViaBus to social apps such as Meetup and weather apps like Rainviewer and Ventusky, each of which make it easier to navigate the chaos of Bangkok and get to a worthy social event. Greg then notes numerous apps for ordering food, helping others find your exact location, and even identifying those cool-looking plants at Chatuchak Market that’ll look great on your balcony. Although at least one listener longs for the old days pre-smartphone, when we had to figure everything out for ourselves, most of us would find that at least a few of these suggestions make life here just a little bit easier and more fun.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E7 · Tue, September 20, 2022

Environmental Journalist James Fahn Updates His Outlook on Thailand’s Eco-Efforts

Greg interviews James Fahn, the Executive Director of Internews’ Earth Journalism Network. Greg begins by opening a discussion about James’ book “ A Land On Fire ,” which was published in 2003, after James worked as the environmental editor at The Nation newspaper in Bangkok in the 1990s. James explains that at The Nation, he wrote extensively about environmental issues in Thailand and Southeast Asia, including doing investigative reporting on corruption and corporate malfeasance that damaged the environment. James even tells a story of how he narrowly avoided interviewing a Burmese strong man who likely would have put James on his hit list. Greg then asks James about how Thailand has changed over time, and whether there is any reason to be optimistic. James notes several things that have gotten better, from public transportation to air pollution to public parks, but then also raises several areas where Thailand still needs a lot of work, such as protection of coral reefs and in the excessive use of plastic. Overall, however, James remains an optimistic, which we are certainly glad to hear at the Bangkok Podcast.  James concludes by making his case that we don’t have to choose between a free market that is pro-business and economic growth and a heavily regulated market that protects the environment at the expense of the economy. Experience in the States shows that preserving the environment can actually boost the economy if done right. Is James eligible to run for Thai Prime Minister? The Bangkok Podcast wants to know! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E6 · Tue, September 13, 2022

22 Years Later: Ed Boils Bangkok Down to 5 Reasons He Stays

Ed reminisces on 22 years in Thailand and tries to summarize exactly why he has decided to stay for so long. It’s hard to sum up, of course, but Ed manages to come up with five positives and three negatives, and Greg helps to clarify things as he goes along.  On the positive side, Ed mentions Thailand’s depth and variety, with many niches and subcultures that it would take a lifetime to explore. As Greg notes, if you are bored in Bangkok, the problem is not Bangkok. Ed also talks about how some things DO change and get better in Bangkok, despite frequent grumblings from most who live here - new weed laws, expanded public transportation and more public parks to name a few. In addition to other points, the boys also agree that there is a very supportive community of expats to ease foreigners’ transition to living long term in the land of smiles.  As for negatives, Ed cannot resist bringing up classic persistent problems in Thailand that NEVER seems to get properly addressed no matter how predictable they are (see Bangkok’s recent floods) as well as the sad state of Thailand’s bureaucracy that is NOT very expat friendly compared to other countries.  Of course Ed’s decision is clear: the positives definitely outweigh the negatives.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E5 · Tue, September 06, 2022

Finnish AmFinnish Ambassador Jyri Järviaho on Diplomatic History, Economic Trade & Vodkabassador Jyri Järviaho on Diplomatic History, Economic Trade & Vodka [S6.E5]

Greg interviews Jyri Järviaho, Finland’s Ambassador to Thailand. Although Greg makes a valiant attempt at pronouncing the Ambassador’s name, the two begin by discussing the difficulty of Finnish, with the Ambassador explaining that it is a unique language that it is completely different from its neighbors, especially its western ones, such as Germany and Sweden. Next, the Ambassador recounts his diplomatic journey from a small village in Finland to university and later to a job with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and eventually various diplomatic postings around Europe and central Asia. Suffice it to say, he’s happy to be in the warm weather of Thailand. The Ambassador next tells the fascinating story of Thailand and Finland’s first diplomatic contact. Finland’s first ambassador to Asia was on a trip to establish relations with Japan when he received a telegram in Singapore indicating that the country of Siam had recognized Finland as it had recently declared independence from Russia. The intrepid ambassador then re-routed to Bangkok and managed to make the first diplomatic contact with a representative of the Thai government.  The two men continue by discussing the rest of the diplomatic relations between the two countries, the trade in both goods and services, and the struggle by the Finnish Embassy to establish a unique identity in the eyes of the Thai people.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E4 · Tue, August 30, 2022

The Mystery of Old Western Songs in TThe Mystery of Old Western Songs in Thailand That Won’t Diehailand That Won’t Die [S6.E4]

Greg and Ed discuss the fascinating topic of old Western pop songs that enjoy a shocking degree of popularity in Thailand. For those foreigners who have spent any amount of time in the Land of Smiles, there are just certain songs you are likely to hear over and over again in restaurants and bars. Why these particular songs? Well, the guys just don’t know, but do their best to offer some theories. The big three have to be “Hotel California,” “Country Roads,” and “I Will Survive.” Greg suggests that the 1960s and 70s were a seminal period in Thai history when American pop culture was first being absorbed by Thais (see also the Cambodian surf rock sub-culture and its tragic end). Even though much more was to come, perhaps this first wave left an indelible impression on Thai society. Ed likes this explanation, but also suggests that Thais’ penchant for folk and country pop and rock music may be due to their melodic catchiness and ‘heart on the sleeve’ sentimentality. Why else would Thais like a song about going back home to West Virginia? :) Ed also offers a specific theory about ‘I Will Survive,’ that it appeals to Thai women who are bound by Thai culture to be cute and smile no matter what, even though they may be struggling inside. Greg sees this point, but thinks it might be more due to the song’s easy to understand lyrics and easy to sing along melody. The boys go through a number of other tunes that are oddly popular in Thailand, including songs by Credence Clearwater Revival, Stevie Ray Vaughn and even an old Hebrew folk song! Let us know what songs we missed and why you think they are so popular in the Land of Smiles.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E3 · Tue, August 23, 2022

Stu Jay Raj on Cursing, Dirty Talk & the Importance of Tones Part 2 [S6.E3]

Greg finishes up his interview with linguist and raconteur Stu Ja Raj . Stu begins with a classic: the super annoying fact that the Thai numbers 11 and 18 can be very difficult for foreigners to pronounce correctly. Stu explains in detail the small differences in tongue placement that make such a difference to Thai ears. This segues into a discussion of the ultra-common word ‘kap khun kap’ and how even this basic word for ‘thank you’ is often mispronounced by foreigners. Stu next explains the concept of ‘kham puan,’ which is a Thai word for a type of pun or slang that involves switching around the order of consonants or vowels in Thai to create funny or indirect phrases for inappropriate (or indecent) things. More or less Stu brings us into the Matrix of the creative use of the Thai language by native speakers, as if learning ‘straight’ Thai wasn’t already hard enough. Greg follows with some of his own hilarious missteps (quite literally, as he stepped on a sea urchin but described it in Thai in a wildly inappropriate manner). Listen in for a fascinating walk through the minefield that is the Thai language. Want more? Check out Stu on YouTube . Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E2 · Tue, August 16, 2022

Stu Jay Raj on Cursing, Dirty Talk & the Importance of Tones

Greg interviews our old pal Stu Jay Raj - linguist, polyglot, and true Renaissance man. As you would expect, the topic is the Thai language and foreigners’ struggle to learn it properly, but with a focus on the trouble you can get into if you don’t understand how tones work.  Stu begins with an important point: the nature of English allows a fair amount of flexibility in pronunciation and accent without sacrificing intelligibility, whereas Thai does not. In short, ‘getting close’ to correct Thai is often not good enough, leading to frustration among foreigners who don’t understand why Thais cannot figure out what they are saying.  Greg gives Stu a few examples of difficulties he has faced, starting with the pronunciation of the popular street “Charoen Krung.” It turns out even something so short and seemingly simple is not so, and even if a foreigner’s tones are correct, a slight mispronunciation of the vowels can confound native speakers. Greg then brings up a common Thai curse word and the shocked reaction of Thais to any foreigner who uses it. Stu goes into an in depth explanation of close Thai relationships that allow a casualness with language that is very difficult to replicate as a foreigner. The two continue discussing the Thai language minefield with Stu dropping many pearls of wisdom along the way. Listen in next week for Part 2 of this interview.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S6 E1 · Tue, August 09, 2022

Coming Up On Season 6...!

As is tradition, Greg and Ed spend the first episode of the brand new season 6 (!) looking back, looking forward, and discussing podcasting as a whole.  When Greg and Tony first started speaking into their panty hose-covered mics (seriously) in 2010 they had no idea they’d be laying the groundwork for such a long-running show. From the days of hauling gear to a rented room to record face to face, to taking advantage of online recording and discovering new ways to streamline the workflow and work with new digital tools, it’s been one big learning experience. The boys also discuss why they think season 6 will be a particularly interesting one, as Thailand comes face-to-face with some pretty big issues that can’t be ignored, and the world (hopefully) starts to come back to spend money at bars, hotels, beaches and malls and help Thailand get back on its feet.  They also manage to complain about their lack of coverage by the New York Times and premier a new segment called Would You Rather. Here’s to a brand new season! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E71 · Tue, July 26, 2022

A Virologist Talks Vaccine Research & Thailand's Scientific Street Cred [S5.E71]

In the last episode of Season 5, Greg interviews Samaporn Teeravechyan, also known as Dr. Joy. Dr. Joy works at the National Center for Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, essentially the arm of the Thai government that focuses on scientific research. She explains that her expertise is in virology, and that she received her Phd in the United States after moving around the world as a child. Currently, Dr. Joy’s focus is on the development of a nasal vaccine for COVID-19. Greg asks Dr. Joy why Thailand is not particularly well known for scientific research and that leads to an extensive discussion of the issue. First, although things have gotten better, the total amount of funding for research and development provided by the Thai government is significantly less than in Western countries. Second, to make matters even worse, her field relies on specimens and materials only available in the U.S., and due to transportation and customs costs, Thai labs have to pay more. Add to that all the delays involved, even though virological research is often very time sensitive. Last, Thailand’s political instability makes funding even more uncertain, so you can clearly see the types of obstacles Thai researchers face compared to more developed countries.  Next, Greg questions Dr. Joy about the specifics of her current research on an intra-nasal vaccine for COVID-19, and why such a vaccine may prove superior to the current ones on the market. The two finish off their discussion with a few very exciting and promising lines of research currently being conducted in labs funded by the Thai government.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E70 · Tue, July 19, 2022

Gotcha! Ten Situations When the Score is Bangkok 1, You 0

Bangkok’s a big city that’s got her own rules. You can try to fight them, but in the end, in certain situations, no matter how much you beg and plead, Bangkok wins, and you lose. Greg and Ed discuss ten ways Bangkok can own you: frustrating ‘gotchas’ that are devilishly difficult to avoid. Even veterans of the city with tons of experience still sometimes forget the nuance or fail to think about the what-ifs and end up standing there like a fool, muttering under their breath. This still definitely happens with Greg and Ed, so if you don’t want to get burned on your next visit to Thailand, keep these in mind - learned from cold, hard experience. From sidewalk squirts and freezing aircon to improper documentation and lack of change in a taxi, Greg and Ed recount multiple ways you can get ‘got’ in the Land of Smiles. Sometimes you beat Bangkok, but sometimes the city owns YOU.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E69 · Tue, July 12, 2022

The Million Baht Kid: Returning to Thailand After Growing Up Abroad

Ed interviews Emily from Calgary, Canada, a unique ‘expat’ in Thailand if there ever was one. Emily was born 19 years ago in Nong Khai, Thailand, to a Canadian father and Thai mother, and spent the first years of her life as a look-kreung kid in Issaan. But her parents relocated to Calgary where she quickly assimilated and became a full-on Canadian. She went to grade school and high school there, only to have her parents retire back to Nong Khai earlier this year, with Emily in tow. Ed asks Emily about her Thai language abilities, and Emily explains that it’s technically her first language and that her mother has spoken to her in Thai her whole life. However, after about 4 years in Canada, Emily somehow lost her ability to speak Thai, and today feels little better than a beginner. The two discuss how weird it is for Emily to see her Thai family but to be unable to speak to them, forcing her to communicate largely in sign language. But never fear - she’s hopeful that she’ll get it back soon. Emily also talks about her early life in Thailand where she was praised as ‘the million baht child’ because, as half-white, she would qualify for a huge dowry if she ever were to marry a Thai man. But upon moving to Canada, Emily states that her status as half-Asian in pasty white Alberta was considerably less than what she had grown up with.  Ed and Greg discuss parallels to Greg’s own son, and Ed mentions that Emily was actually born with blue eyes before they turned brown after a few days. And lo and behold! Something similar happened to Greg’s son. See the photo below of Greg’s darling boy a few months after he was born. Listen in for a fascinating discussion of double-reverse culture shock (or something).  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E68 · Tue, July 05, 2022

Fun AND Educational? Some Notable Bangkok Firsts

In a new concept, Greg and Ed discuss various Bangkok ‘Firsts’ in an effort to improve their knowledge of the city’s history and development. Loosely based on a trivia format the guys go back and forth asking each other about key milestones in Thai history, some quite significant, with others just quirky or interesting. Starting with shopping malls and bridges and moving on to airports and politics, Greg and Ed go back and forth asking each other about some of the more notable events in the history of the city. Who had the first embassy? Where was the first movie theater or McDonalds? Do you know what year Thailand first won Miss Universe or its first Olympic medal? We challenge you to see if you can come up with the right answers before we do. That is…when we do manage to come up with the right answers…which isn’t all the time. If you want to see if you’re right, you’re gonna have to listen to the show! :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E67 · Tue, June 28, 2022

Luxembourg Ambassador Jean-Paul Senninger Talks Diplomacy & Cultural Identity

Greg interviews the Luxembourgian Ambassador to Thailand, Jean-Paul Senninger. As a diplomat with a long list of postings around the world, from his home base at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to Washington, D.C., Spain, Turkey and finally Bangkok, where he is the chief diplomat for several Southeast Asian nations. Jean-Paul talks about the difficulty of juggling differences of developed countries such as Singapore and Thailand with struggling countries such as Laos and Myanmar but admits that being based in Bangkok, with its friendly people and comfortable climate is a sweet gig.  Next, the two talk about the history of relations between Thailand and Luxembourg. Because of Luxembourg’s diminutive size, there have been no problems in the past between the two countries, but in modern times, the country’s position in the center of Europe and as part of the European Union make it an ideal trading partner for Thailand. The Ambassador notes that Luxembourg actually runs the largest cargo shipping company in the world as well as one of the world’s largest satellite companies, seemingly outperforming what one would expect from such a small country, which is only marginally bigger than Bangkok itself.  Listen in to the rest of the interview as Ambassador Senninger addresses other issues such as Luxembourg’s investment in green energy and what all countries, regardless of size or leadership type, should work toward attaining.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E66 · Tue, June 21, 2022

Pot Luck Surprise! The Highs and Lows of Weed in Thailand

Greg and Ed discuss the recent decriminalization of cannabis in Thailand, the recent changes around town it’s caused, and whether or not they think it will last.  First, Ed does a quick interview with our resident Weed Expert, Kitty Chopaka, who is both a ‘ganjapreneur’ and social activist. Kitty explains that the current situation is somewhat of a ‘technical foul,’ as the cannabis plant itself was delisted as a narcotic with the intent for it to be regulated by a new law, but that new law is still being debated in parliament. Hence, for the time being, all parts of the cannabis plant itself, including high THC flowers, is untouched by the law, sparking cannabis shops to pop up around town and online.  Kitty talks about where she thinks (and hopes) the law will end up and warns about the dangers of misuse during this interim period that could cause the conservative authorities to panic and re-tighten things up. In the meantime, if you have the desire, you can check out Kitty’s shop Chopaka near the corner of Sukhumvit and Asoke. Greg and Ed discuss what this change could mean for Thailand in general and the future of tourism. The guys also discuss what it means for people - like Greg - who don’t smoke cannabis, and the short answer is ‘not much,’ unless possibly Greg’s creaking bones could benefit from some low-THC cannabis products in the future. In a special bonus, Greg has a quick chat with his mother-in-law who waxes nostalgically about her childhood when cannabis plants were common in neighborhood gardens and traditional Thai dishes.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E65 · Tue, June 14, 2022

From Toothbrushes to Curses: Storytime With Christopher G. Moore

This is Part Two of Greg’s recent interview with uber-expat Christopher G. Moore, author, raconteur, and general man-about-town. In true Renaissance guy fashion, the two men jump from topic to topic, each more interesting than the next. First, Greg asks Chris about how translations of his books are undertaken, and Chris tells a fascinating story of how the length of the translations of his novels in China are arbitrarily set by the Communist Central Committee. You’d think they’d have better things to do. :) Next, Chris relates his origin story and how he saved his first apartment from becoming a toothbrush factory. (No, this is not made up.) Through various serendipitous occurrences, Chris managed to stay in the apartment for more than twenty years with a very low rent, allowing him to build his career as a novelist. This segues into a discussion of the evolution of fitness and gym culture over the last thirty years, with both guys giving theories to explain Thais’ adoption of the western phenomenon. The conversation continues with the senior expats trading stories back and forth about the changing physical and cultural landscape of Bangkok, and a story about women’s underwear that’s good advice for those who want to avoid being cursed. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E64 · Tue, June 07, 2022

From Page to Screen: Christopher G. Moore on Hard-Boiled Bangkok [S5.E64]

Greg interviews Christopher G. Moore, long-time friend of the podcast and senior Bangkok expat, known for his extensive fiction and non-fiction writing as well as his legendary conversational skills. Chris begins by relating his recent short film project, a Bangkok noir featuring his most famous character, Vincent Calvino and what it takes to bring a fictional character to life in Bangkok, a city that’s a character all of its own. Greg and Chris discuss his writing career and 17 (!) Vincent Calvino novels, the last of which came out in 2020 and addresses how climate change might affect Bangkok in the near future. This leads to a discussion of another of Chris’s passion projects, the CCCL Film Festival dedicated to young Thai filmmakers who want to tell stories about how climate change impacts their communities.  The boys then get nostalgic and trade stories of how much Bangkok has changed over the years, especially when compared to the 90s when no one had cell phones and the MRT was but a dream? Greg tries to keep up, but must bend the knee to one of the giants of the expat world, who very few people can rival for their knowledge of Bangkok over the decades. Listen in next week for Part 2 of Greg’s interview with uber-expat Chris! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E63 · Tue, May 31, 2022

Understanding Thailand: Some Rules of Thumb That Explain a Lot [S5.E63]

Greg and Ed pull together all their accumulated wisdom about Thai culture and society into six pithy theories to aid expats and tourists alike. Ed begins with his classic ‘Universal Theory of Thailand,” that everything good in the country comes from Thais being so nice, and that everything bad in the country ALSO comes from Thais being so nice. The guys discuss how true this is, before Greg drops his own grand theory that nothing gets improved in Thailand until it becomes embarrassing for Thailand internationally. The boys realize that if a charity or NGO was REALLY smart, they would spend their money on some ultra-famous influencer like Kim Kardashian to harp about some social ill in Thailand. The government would get right on it! Ed follows with his idea that you can say anything you want to a Thai person, as long as you are smiling while you are doing it. Greg then brings up some VERY practical advice for safety on the streets of Bangkok, and Ed finishes with the irony of how rules work in Thailand, usually not mattering but then eventually REALLY mattering. Then guest of the show Jon concludes with his ‘range of the acceptably wrong’ theory to help tourists and expats manage expectations in the Land of Smiles. This may be the episode of the Bangkok Podcast with the most wisdom and insight per minute!  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E62 · Tue, May 24, 2022

Seeing Thailand Through FilSeeing Thailand Through Film: Director Paul Spurrier

Ed interviews Paul Spurrier , a British expat in Thailand who has been in the film industry his entire life. Paul begins at the beginning, how his first movie ever in a movie theater was “The Sound of Music,” and it had such an impact on him that he decided to become an actor (at age 8!). After a prolific career as a child on stage and screen, including films with stars such as Richard Harris, Richard Burton and Roger Moore, he decided he didn’t want to re-invent himself as an adult actor and instead went to film school. His film education luckily included virtually all aspects of filmmaking from writing to lighting to directing to editing. This eventually led Paul to start his own production company in London where he worked on a variety of commercial products. Eventually on a whim he took a short-term job in Thailand, but fell so in love with the place that he closed up his company and made the full move to the Land of Smiles to continue his career as a filmmaker here. Ed and Paul discuss what it's like to be a farang filmmaker in Thailand, as well as Paul’s unusual choice of making most of his films in the Thai language. The guys also address the question of whether Thai audiences really are that different from audiences around the world, and discuss a few funny stories about assimilating into a new culture. Listen in for the full interview with one of the most interesting expats in Thailand and check out links to some of his films on IMDB, like P , The Forest , Eullenia or The Maestro . Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and <a href= "http://bit.ly/2iVKohx

S5 E61 · Tue, May 17, 2022

Busting Some Myths About Prostitution in Thailand [S5.E61]

Ed leads a discussion and semi-rant about a persistent myth regarding the history of prostitution in Thailand that was recently perpetuated by a YouTube video by Thaiger . The myth goes like this: prostitution wasn’t much of a thing in Thailand until the Vietnam War era, when the demand created by American GIs on rest and relaxation resulted in a booming sex industry.  Ugh. Where to start? Well, first of all, prostitution is called the oldest profession in the world for a reason, and there’s clear evidence of the industry existing in Thailand many hundreds of years before the Vietnam War. Second, many studies have revealed the well-known fact that the bulk of prostitution in Thailand has Thai men as the clientele, not foreigners. And last but not least, what about the Thai women (and men) who populate the sex industry, the bar owners, and the landowners? Are they not Thai?  The guys discuss the Thaiger video and praise it for what it gets right, namely the Thai government’s promotion of condom use in the 1980s and the serious steps to eradicate sex trafficking that occurred in the 1990s. But alas, no matter how many times certain myths are debunked, the one that says foreigners are the major driver behind the sex industry in Thailand never seems to die. :( Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E60 · Tue, May 10, 2022

Achievement Unlocked! Even More Expat Merit Badges

Because the first show was so fun to do - and full of great listener-generated ideas! - Greg and Ed revisit the idea of expat ‘merit badges,’ a recognition of classic experiences in Thailand that indicate you are more than just a tourist. I mean, try to come to Thailand as a tourist and not eat bugs, that’s easy-peasy! We’re talking about real skills or achievements that show you’ve not only been here for a while, but have actually gone out of your comfort zone to learn and get your hands dirty. So to speak. The guys go back and forth, discussing ten new ways to ‘level up’ your expat street cred. Examples include dressing down for formal events, Thai style, understanding the Thai system of measurements, as in ‘rai’ and ‘wa,’ knowing Thai years, especially for your date of birth, being able to recognize or speak a little bit of a Thai dialect, and knowing the formally proper way to give alms to a monk. Greg and Ed talk about their own ability at each one, and then go through even more experiences that prove you are not a noob in Thailand.  Listen in for all the details and see where you rank among your expat peers! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E59 · Tue, May 03, 2022

Author Chris Baker Discusses Thai History, Culture & Conflict [S5.E59]

Greg and Ed interview expat legend Chris Baker, co-author (along with his wife Pasuk Phongpaichit) of A History of Thailand , in addition to several other well-known books on Thailand. Greg and Ed gush over the fact they have both read Chris’s most famous work, something that every serious expat needs to do at some point.  Chris begins by relating the lovely story of meeting his wife in England and subsequently relocating to Thailand where he worked a variety of jobs before settling down and co-writing a book with her on the economy and politics of Thailand in the 1990s. He explains his fascinating relationship with his wife, which involves extensive arguing over the subject matter of their books, while somehow preserving their personal relationship. The guys joke that this is perhaps Chris’s greatest accomplishment.  Chris continues with the story of his most famous book, A History of Thailand, how it came about and he and his wife’s shock and amazement at its best-seller status. Chris explains that a new, updated fourth edition is close to release, so all Bangkok Podcast listeners now have their summer reading assignment!  Greg and Ed prod Chris for his thoughts on recent events in Thailand, and Chris gives his insightful take on the last few years. Thankfully, Chris agrees to return to the podcast for future shows. We can’t wait! :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E58 · Tue, April 26, 2022

Greg’s Canada Trip: Thoughts on Reverse Culture Shock [S5.E58]

It’s Greg’s turn for some reverse culture shock as he relates his return to Thailand from the Great White North of Calgary, Alberta, Canada. Ed first notes the differences between his situation and Greg’s: he still has family in Ohio, while Greg’s family are no longer there. Plus, Ed’s habits tend towards the international, such as Starbucks and Subway, so he can feel at home around the world.  For Greg though, Calgary is really another place entirely, especially in the winter, and he reacted similarly to Ed in Ohio: Why do human beings even live in this environment? Apparently, twenty years in the tropics changes a man. The boys then discuss some of the big differences noted on Greg's trip, from dull malls and rough-looking locals (something Ed noticed on his trip too) to the abundance of weed dispensaries and the sheer joy of bantering with waitstaff in your own language.   Listen in for some deep thoughts on being a stranger in a strange land that used to be home.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E57 · Tue, April 19, 2022

The Psychology of Tourist Scams with Tourism Expert Ding Xu [S5.E57]

Anyone who has been to Thailand knows the old “Ohhh, the temple is closed today, why don’t you come with me to this gem store?” Despite warnings in literally every bit of content about traveling to Thailand, thousands still fall prey to this scam every year. But why?? To answer this we are joined by Ding Xu, a PhD candidate in tourism at Australia’s James Cook University . Ding’s research goes deep into understanding the culture, economy and psychology of the tourism industry as well as the tourists themselves. Putting hundreds of hours of study into the scams that are so prevalent around the world, Ding has a unique insight into not only how and why the scams are put together, but what causes a large number of tourists to part with money - sometimes a lot of money! - based on the advice of a random dude they met in a foreign country.  Ding explains the four features that his research identified in being central to any scam - deception types, interpersonal trust, victim culpability and prevalence - to dissect how and why these scams are so ubiquitous. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E56 · Tue, April 12, 2022

Thai Games: From Playgrounds to Cards to Beetle Fighting [S5.E.56]

Thanks to a suggestion from a listener Greg and Ed discuss the fascinating topic of games that are common - if not unique - to Thailand. Both guys have some familiarity with some games played in public such as ‘takraw,’ but many of the others are part of this strange world called ‘Thai culture’ that the guys apparently don’t actually know that well. Greg begins with a children’s game in which one child sings a song while counting by syllable on another child’s hand.  When the singer stops on a finger, that finger is taken out of the game.  The child with the last finger in is the winner.  Greg even plays a cute clip of a video of the game .   Next, Greg explains a Thai game very similar to the Western game of ‘jacks,’ which although relatively unplayed by children back home, still lives on in a Thai derivative.  The boys then go deep into the Thai version of chess, called makruk ( หมากรุก) , which utilizes the same board and pieces but with modifying moving rules for each piece. This game is a quite famous pastime of Thai motorcycle riders, who can often be seen playing the game on the side of the road while awaiting customers. It should be noted that Ed’s friend - a noted chess lover - was broken by makruk, giving up in frustration after trying to tame the wild beast. Greg continues with several more Thai games, from the crazy sport of takraw, which is kind of like soccer and volleyball mixed together with a wicker ball, to bizarre practices such as beetle fighting , popular in the Northeast, and a game where you throw seeds with your knees . We also check in with a friend of Greg’s who owns Golden Goblin Games to hear about the role-playing side of things. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perk

S5 E55 · Tue, April 05, 2022

Rules & Etiquette: Public Speaking as a Buddhist Monk [S5.E55]Rules & Etiquette: Public Speaking as a Buddhist Monk

Greg interviews our old friend and recurring guest Phra Pandit, about public speaking as a Buddhist monk. Beginning with some public speaking basics, such as the three things that really matter when you give a speech: what you have to say, who you are, and how you deliver, our venerable friend emphasizes that how you deliver a speech is what you have the most control over and is also completely separate from the content. Using Trump as an example, he explains that Trump’s public speaking technique was excellent, even though he was turned off by the message.  Next, Phra Pandit discusses the different types of speeches in Thai Buddhism, from the informal to the more formal. Interestingly, the more formal the speech, the more robotic the delivery is supposed to be, given that the content is supposed to be pure Buddhism as opposed to your own views or personality. But even in informal talks, humor and laughter is supposed to be avoided as can be seen in the recent hullabaloo over two Thai monks doing a stand up comedy routine.  Phra Pandit continues with some more great advice for speakers of all types and concludes with some very funny stories about trying to teach Asian monks, who are almost guaranteed to be shy, the secret to overcoming the fear of talking in front of a crowd.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E54 · Tue, March 29, 2022

The World Happiness Index: How Does Thailand Measure Up? [S5.E54]

In the wake of the 2022 World Happiness Report - which saw Thailand drop by quite a few spots - Greg and Ed jump into the fascinating topic of the happiness of Thailand compared to other countries. How can you possibly measure something like the ‘happiness’ of a country? Well, wannabe social scientist Ed claims it can be done, and Greg walks through the data from the report to discuss.  The boys go through factors such as GDP per capita, social support, and life expectancy, among others, that the researchers used to figure out how happy people were in various countries. So what of Thailand? Well, its ranking was 61 out of 146 countries which could be worse, but it turns out Thailand has slid 28 spots in the last few years! Ouch. The guys then discuss various possible reasons for the drop, with of course the military government being a prime candidate, given that Thailand’s long slide started in around 2015. Could Thailand possibly no longer be the Land of Smiles? Well, at the very least, the hosts of the Bangkok Podcast are still smiling, so Thailand has that going for it. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E53 · Tue, March 22, 2022

Photographer Dax Ward on Capturing Bangkok's Abandoned Beauty [S5.E53]

Greg interviews Dax Ward , an adventurous photographer best known for his beautiful photos of dilapidated buildings and abandoned places. Dax begins by explaining that he was a very late starter to photography, getting a DSLR for the first time in 2015. After a random trip to the airplane graveyard down Ramkhamhaeng Road, he developed an affinity for shooting forgotten and abandoned places.  As it turns out, Thailand (and Bangkok in particular) are perfect places for this style of photography due to the number of unfinished construction projects from the financial crisis of the late 1990s. Additionally, there seem to be a surprising number of new business ventures in the area that fail for whatever reason or another, so there seems to be an endless supply of possible sites for Dax’s style of photography.  The guys discuss how Dax discovers and gains access to his locations. It’s surprising what a couple hundred baht here and there will do to the attitude of many Thai security guards! Dax then details his research methods and how he manages to build a compelling story around each set of photographs, something that many other photographers don’t bother with. In a world where almost everyone has the technology in their pocket to take a decent photo, Thailand is lucky to have an intrepid, creative photographer like Dax to show us how to do things right. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E52 · Tue, March 15, 2022

Saying Too Much: Dealing With Self-Censorship in Thailand [S5.E52]

Greg and Ed tackle the uncomfortable topic of self-censorship in Thailand, especially as it pertains to the podcast itself, and the churning, roiling issue of what you can say, when, and how, which seem to be in the news every day.  Although it is unfortunate, the reality of working and living in Thailand is that the laws and culture are not the same as back home in the U.S. and Canada. Obviously, this means no discussion of the monarchy, and Ed explains how he always advises visiting friends to simply avoid discussion of the monarchy and royal family in pretty much any context. This is good advice for all foreigners in Thailand actually. Second, the boys concur that although they do criticize the government broadly, they make sure not to name specific politicians or policymakers. Although technically no law forbids it, strong and pointed criticism of the Thai government has a way of ending up poorly for the critic, from sudden problems with your visa to (in extreme cases) outright disappearance. On a podcast that is not centered on political issues, it just ain’t worth the risk, and while the guys feel comfortable critiquing the government broadly, that's about as far as they are willing to go. Last, Greg and Ed discuss Thailand’s defamation laws, which work differently than the laws back home where ‘truth’ is more or less an absolute defense. In Thailand, even if you say something true, you can be found guilty of violating another person’s privacy. As Ed put it, Thailand has a ‘mind your own business’ culture, as opposed to the ‘speak truth to power’ culture we have back home.  All this being said, the guys admit that self-censorship is fairly rare and not really a problem for a podcast focused on the serious (and sometimes silly) aspects of living in Thailand as a foreigner.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E51 · Tue, March 08, 2022

The Middle Path: Is Thailand an In-Between Country? [S5.E51]

Greg and Ed consider the tricky question of Thailand’s role in the global order. Sparked by a question from one of his students about what Thailand’s response to the war in Ukraine should be, Ed realized that he’s never really thought about the world from the perspective of the Thai government or even a Thai person. The guys do their best as non-Thais but long term expats to imagine what the world looks like to most Thais. Ed discusses King Rama V’s clever diplomatic maneuverings between the French and the British in the 19th Century that kept Thailand from ever being colonized. Greg brings up the classic example of Prime Minister Phibul during WW2, who sided with Japan when it was winning the war, but also conducting negotiations with the West as the tide turned. As a developing country, it DOES seem that Thailand has spent a big part of its history stuck in between larger powers. The boys try to relate this to the current crisis in Ukraine, recognizing that as a country that depends on tourism, Thailand rightfully may not want to alienate Russian citizens. Even some prominent members of the democracy movement have cautioned Thais about taking sides in the conflict. However, others have urged that if Thailand wants to become a real democracy in the future, it must support emerging democracies abroad, such as Ukraine. As two Westerners at heart, the guys couldn’t agree more! :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E50 · Tue, March 01, 2022

History on Video: Bangkok Pat Talks Exploring & Storytelling

Greg interviews ‘Bangkok Pat,’ whose videos on Bangkok’s historical secrets uncover the hidden layers of this fascinating city. Pat begins with a bit of personal background, growing up in the UK with a Thai mother, and eventually losing touch with that part of his history. Undeterred,in his early twenties, he made the move to Thailand to re-discover his lost roots.  The guys discuss Pat’s early days as a DJ in Bangkok’s club scene, before getting into the issue of how to survive in Bangkok as a new foreigner (especially when getting bad advice from other foreigners). Next, Greg inquires about Pat’s interest in history and how he got into making videos about Bangkok. A history lover since childhood, he developed a curiosity for different Bangkok neighborhoods, and due to Covid, felt an online approach would be most suitable. Due to a few lucky shares, even his earliest videos developed a following.  The boys continue with a deep dive into a few of Pat’s most successful videos, and they trade advice on the best research strategies, and what makes Bangkok such a great city to get lost in.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E49 · Tue, February 22, 2022

Would a Bangkok by Any Other Name Smell as Sweet?

Greg and Ed discuss the significance of the recent decision by the Thai parliament to accept a change to the official English name of Bangkok that was proposed by the Royal Society of Thailand. Initially, it was announced as a major change from ‘Bangkok’ to ‘Krung Thep Maha Nakhon,’ (that’s กรุงเทพมหานคร for you Thai readers), but Greg clarifies that the change really was just a matter of punctuation. Nevertheless, the announcement kicked off a huge debate on social media over what Thailand’s capital should really be called, as it’s an issue fraught with a surprising amount of subtext, as this great thread from Khun Phacha will show. Ed notes initially that the word ‘Bangkok’ is not a word made up by Westerners, but an old word for a district of the old capital of Thonburi. Greg points out that Bangkok has been used for centuries and is extremely well known around the world so it’s a bit strange for the change to be made now. The guys also discuss proper pronunciation of places, as most countries have the ‘international name’ (ie, Germany, Thailand and Sweden) and the ‘local name’ (as in Deutschland, Meuang Thai, and Sverige). Read more about this interesting concept with the name of Laos in this great post by Tim . In the end, the guys prefer to keep the podcast ‘The Bangkok Podcast’ instead of going through the trouble of renaming it ‘The Krung Thep Maha Nakorn Podcast.’ Lazy as always! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E48 · Tue, February 15, 2022

History and Insight: Exploring Thailand’s Indian Community

One of the great things about Thai culture is the many facets that make up the whole. One of them is the Indian community, and Greg is happy to welcome Ram Sachdev, a first generation Thai-Indian and founder of Masala Magazine , a leading voice of the Thai-Indian community, to talk about it.  We begin by going over the many historical cultural connections between India and Thailand, from Sanskrit’s influence on Thai language to Buddhism’s origin in India, in addition to the myriad Thai holidays which can be traced back to ancient Indian celebrations. No doubt the Indian influence on Thai culture is more than it might appear on the surface, and more than most Thais might admit.  Ram then expertly describes the Indian diaspora to Malaysia and later Thailand that resulted from the partition of India after World War II. This leads to a discussion of Thai-Indian identity in Thailand, which K. Ram contends is still misunderstood. This includes a discussion of the common word used by Thais for South Asians, “khaek”. Another common misconception is to group Hindu Indians along with Malaysia Muslims. Greg and K. Ram discuss the struggle of Thai-Indians to be recognized as truly Thai, but also of Hindu Indian descent.  The conversation continues to cover many aspects of Indian-Thai life in Thailand, revealing Thailand to be a society that is more multicultural than most people realize.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E47 · Tue, February 08, 2022

Great Thailand Advice We Ignored…But Shouldn’t Have [S5.E47]

As Thailand starts to get back to bid-ness, there will likely be a whole lot of n00bs coming in to tour, work and live. Most who have been here for a while already remember what an overwhelming experience Bangkok was in the early days, and how helpful it was to make a network of friends that you could turn to for advice. Of course, not all advice is great, especially when you’re talking with random people about how your new foreign home works. We think it’s fair to say that most advice you get is subjective and can probably be taken with a grain of salt, but some advice…some advice is gold, and should be locked away for further investigation. Greg and Ed take a look back at their early days in the Kingdom and each come up with 2 bits of advice that they got that they did not lock away for further investigation, and now - in their wise old age - regret. From dating to geography, sometimes it pays to listen to old-timers to make the most of your new situation. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E46 · Tue, February 01, 2022

George Dupont: The Only Thai to Fight in the US Civil War [S5.E46]

We recount the fascinating story of George DuPont, the only Thai person who fought in the American Civil War. The first record of George in the U.S. is in 1859, but almost nothing is known of how or why he ended up in the United States. We know that in 1862 he volunteered for a New Jersey regiment to fight for the North in the American Civil War. Shockingly, he fought in and survived the battles of Antietam, Chancellorville, and Gettysburg, three of the bloodiest battles of the war. He was eventually naturalized as a U.S. citizen in 1869. He subsequently returned to Thailand, or Siam as it was known, and worked a variety of jobs, from writer for an English language newspaper to a drillmaster to a timber dealer. He died at age 56, and you can still see his grave in the Bangkok Protestant Cemetery on Charoen Krung 72/5.  George DuPont represents a fascinating glimpse into the lives of early Thai immigrants to America. Greg and Ed surmise that there must have been immigrants before him, equally or more interesting! One way or another, we’ll find them and tell their stories on the Bangkok Podcast. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E45 · Tue, January 25, 2022

Is Thailand Really LGBTQ Friendly? It’s Complicated [S5.E45]

Greg interviews Benjamin Lord, an American who moved to Asia straight out of college at NYU. He is on the show to discuss life as a gay man in Thailand. After spending several years in Vietnam, where the pressure to hide his status was suffocating, he eventually relocated to Bangkok. At first, the prevalence of gay bars, trans people, and apparent acceptance of a gay lifestyle led Benjamin to believe that Thailand was a kind of gay paradise, a moniker often placed on the Land of Smiles. However, over the years he has developed a much subtler view of the acceptance of homosexuality in Thai society. Although Benjamin doesn’t fear for his physical safety in the same way he did in his birthplace of Arkansas, he is now aware that many Thai families stick to ‘traditional values’ and reject and may even disown their own children who are gay or trans.  Further, the lack of true legal equality for LGBTQ people in Thailand has become more apparent in many ways, the most obvious of which was the recent Constitutional Court decision that stated that marriage is only between a man and a woman. Greg and Benjamin discuss the reaction of the LGBTQ community to the ruling and how a lack of ‘positive rights’ demonstrates that Thailand really is a very conservative society in many ways, regardless of the ‘niceness’ on the surface. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E44 · Tue, January 18, 2022

Ed's Big List: 10 Differences Between the US and Thailand

With Ed being stuck in the US, he relates ten experiences he has had during his stay in Ohio that he doesn’t think he would ever have in Thailand, introducing them with his characteristic wit and charm. (Ed wrote this). From overly aggressive nazi guards at the airport to overly aggressive kindness from fellow shoppers, and all the way down to Covid carelessness, vaxxers of all types, and the sweet, sweet siren call to consume, consume, consume at all costs.  While some of them may be trivial or only be special in Ed’s bizarre consciousness, the boys do their best to tease out truths about American and Thai culture and interesting insights into American society. At the very least, Ed’s been on an adventure that should be of interest to anyone who cares about the fascinating differences between the West and Thailand. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E43 · Tue, January 11, 2022

Anger, Anxiety & Death: How Buddhism Deals with the Big Issues

Greg interviews Phra Pandit, the resident Bangkok Podcast expert on all things Buddhism, about negative emotions such as anxiety and anger and how Buddhism deals with them. Displaying his deep knowledge of Western psychology, Phra Pandit begins first by discussing the Freudian approach to anxiety, which separates out reasonable negative emotions from neuroticism, which is defined as anxiety that is irrational or inappropriate given the context.  Greg brings up the sometimes casual attitude that Thais seem to have towards death, and Phra Pandit explains that the Buddha taught his followers to contemplate death and even encouraged monks to meditate in cemeteries and in close proximity to corpses. By addressing the issue of our physical death so directly, Buddhism aims to give us perspective on day to day annoyances, such as getting coffee that’s lukewarm instead of hot. :) The old friends continue with a wide ranging discussion of the differences between how westerners and Thais deal with traumatic events and negative emotions, and Phra Pandit weaves his general knowledge of human psychology in with his very deep and specific knowledge of Thai culture and Buddhism. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E42 · Tue, January 04, 2022

The Bangkok Podcast Covid Christmas Clusterf#@k Extravaganza

It’s a COVID Christmas Craptacular! The guys discuss all the ways that COVID has made the holiday season difficult for expats and travelers to Thailand. To start things off, Greg plays a quick conversation with podcast supporter Ash, who is now more or less locked out of Thailand due to the recent tightening of restrictions. So much for planning ahead! Next, Ed details his absolutely epic adventure to Ohio. Despite a successful last-minute scramble to get the right health insurance and beat the deadline for applying for a Thailand Pass, he managed to test positive for COVID on Christmas Eve! So much for spending Christmas with his family for the first time in 20 years. Despite no symptoms whatsoever, he tested positive a week later and is now unable to get back into Thailand under the new rules, so he is stuck in Ohio for the time being. Never fear: the Bangkok Podcast will go on as usual.  Last, Greg plays a short conversation with Scott, sometime podcast co-host. Unlike Ed, Scott does not have COVID, but what he also doesn’t have is a Thailand Pass, thanks to a lack of hotel paperwork. The result: he’s stuck in Canada for the time being. Maybe Ed and Scott can have a locked out of Thailand party! Woo hoo! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E41 · Tue, December 21, 2021

Riding the Rails: Catching up with Bangkok’s New Train Lines

When Greg and guest-host Scott moved here at the turn of the century, Bangkok had about 22km of train lines (not counting the SRT diesel trains). Now there are 210km in operation with a further 250km under construction. That’s huge! But it presents a problem - Bangkok is evolving very quickly, and unless you ride the trains A LOT, you are probably, like us, becoming more and more unfamiliar with how to get around the city you live in. Greg and Scott set out to change this, and spent a day riding around on various lines, visiting a few stations, and seeing what they could see from above (and below) the city. To get a better idea of how things look, check out this Google Map that Greg made of all the existing and upcoming train lines in Bangkok.  From the confusing new Blue Line loop to the massive Bang Sue Grand Station to dusty end of the Purple Line, the boys give their impression on how things are progressing and why - if you live here - all of us should make an effort to get more acquainted with Bangkok’s train lines before we start to feel like lost, confused tourists in the very city we live in. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E40 · Tue, December 14, 2021

The Times They Are a-Changing: Thailand’s Demographic Shift

The show welcomes back Dr. Jessica Vechbanyongratana, an economist at Chulalongkorn University, to discuss the cold, hard data on Thailand’s demographics.  It sounds vague and geeky at first, but the more you look into it, the more you realize just how much you can tell about Thailand by observing things like the age that people are getting married and retiring at, how many kids they’re having, the rate of household debt, and how all of these things will affect the next generation. Jessica discusses the link between all of these, as well as the changing logistics of operating a university when there’s not enough students to go around and what she sees her students doing as they enter the “real world” and start to get jobs. She also talks about what to expect when you grow old in Thailand, especially if you’re going to rely on the social safety nets which, to be honest, look about as robust as the green fishing nets you see draped over piers in Ko Samui. Lots of other great insights into how Thailand is moving into 2022 and beyond, and the indicators we can keep an eye on to give us an idea of how things are changing Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E39 · Tue, December 07, 2021

Bangkok's Seven Deadly Sins: Gluttony

Greg and Ed finish up the Seven Deadly Sins series with a discussion of ‘gluttony’ in the context of Bangkok - in this case, wanting to eat the largest quantity of food for the least amount of money. While we all know that Bangkok is one of the best places to eat in the world, it doesn’t necessarily mean it’s the best city to eat A LOT for CHEAP.  Ed begins by showing off his farang nature: pizza in general in Bangkok is good but not cheap. However, several delivery companies (shout out to The Pizza Company) frequently run generous promotions, like an automatic upgrade of a small pizza to an 18 incher (!) or just a two-for-one. At that rate, pizza in Bangkok qualifies for pigout status. Greg goes more Thai by opening up a discussion of Thai street food. It’s delicious. It’s cheap. But Ed notes that the portions tend to be small, quite different from the heaping plates of Chinese food available in the States. But Greg counters that as long as you are willing to make the rounds and buy many dishes, for 3-400 baht you can have a veritable feast! To burnish his Thai credentials, Ed then brings up Thai fresh markets, which are famous for being ridiculously cheap and focusing on bulk purchases. Huge slabs of meat, bags o’ veggies and culinary accoutrements...the big caveat of course is that you must be willing to cook or prepare your meals before feasting.  The boys continue debating the pros and cons of various possibilities, but it all boils down to one thing: Bangkok is not only a great place for delicious food, it’s also a great place for gluttony. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E38 · Tue, November 30, 2021

Tech, Trade & Bridges with Belgian Ambassador Sibille de Cartier

Greg interviews Belgian Ambassador to Thailand, Madam Sybille de Cartier, formerly Ambassador to Egypt and Sudan, with plenty of diplomatic experience in other posts around the world.  She discusses the long history that Belgium and Thailand share, going back all the way to 1839, which is pretty amazing since Belgium itself was founded in 1830. Belgium also played a key role in the modernization of Thailand under King Chulalongkorn, providing advisors that aided in maintaining the Kingdom’s independence and building up its legal system.  Next, the Ambassador talks about her country’s current relationship with Thailand, especially economically, and the function of the embassy in Bangkok which actually also services Cambodia, Myanmar, and Laos. The two continue and discuss a myriad of the details of the relationship, from mutually beneficial social security rules to the genesis story of the famous Thai-Belgian bridge of friendship, a story worth hearing in detail.  Special thanks to Ambassador de Cartier for taking the time to be our guest! :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E37 · Tue, November 23, 2021

Alcohol: Thailand’s Favorite Boogeyman

In a very topical show Greg and Ed discuss the role that alcohol plays in Thai culture. For a country that seems to love restricting alcohol consumption, be it for religious holidays or even election days, Thails love to drink (the most in SEA, actually). But there’s a rather huge gulf between the way Thai people actually behave and the image that the Thai government would like to project to the world, which is of a ‘conservative Buddhist country.’ This leads to a discussion of the partial re-opening. Tourists are allowed in with some restrictions, alcohol can be sold in restaurants until 9 pm, but all purely entertainment venues are shuttered, supposedly until January 15th at least. Greg plays devil’s advocate (or in this case, angel’s advocate) and points out that in early stages of the pandemic, some major outbreaks occurred in nightclubs. It’s common sense that people are less careful when intoxicated, so what’s wrong with closing bars and entertainment venues?  Ed does his best to counter with bulletproof logic, pointing out the flaws: why can restaurants serve booze, but not bars? What magic happens at 9 pm, when alcohol stops being served, that causes COVID to suddenly be transmitted where it wasn’t before? And wouldn’t rules about ventilation and the density of customers be a more scientific strategy?  This leads to Ed’s main argument that the government has stopped making policy based on science and is instead merely acting as a ‘conservative Buddhist’ teacher of morals and proper behavior, much to the disadvantage of Thai bar owners and entertainment workers.  Don’t forget to read the excellent article on Thai Enquirer that discusses the same issues - and definitely check out the classic commercial Greg and Ed discussed. JHON! KRIED! KIN LAO ! Yes, folks, Thailand is in the midst of a SOCIAL ORDER CRACKDOWN! So journey here only if you are one of the sizable number of travellers that doesn’t really care about partying after 9 pm. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , <a

S5 E36 · Tue, November 16, 2021

The Changing Role of the Foreign Teacher in Thailand

S5 E35 · Tue, November 09, 2021

Hassles and Hope: Thailand’s Big Reopening

The boys address the big story of the day: Thailand’s long-delayed reopening to tourists, at least from certain low-risk countries. Ed begins by recounting the current (at the time of the show) rules for tourists: COVID medical insurance, a negative test within 72 hours of departure, and a negative test after touching down which MAY require a night in a government-approved hotel. Note that the info in this show was accurate at the time of recording, but things change fast - check here for more details . The guys discuss the accuracy of the ‘no quarantine’ promotional material before getting into their predictions on the likely success or failure of the endeavor. Both guys agree that it was high time to start selling alcohol again. Ed laments that sales stop at 9 pm and nightlife is not completely open, but baby steps are better than no steps. Certainly, Thai tourism will recover, but will it take 6 months? 1 year? 2 years? Greg and Ed gaze into the Bangkok Podcast crystal ball and make their best estimates. Each guy then makes their own pitch while the near future is probably the best time to visit Thailand, but it all boils down to this: there’s no doubt that Thailand is a beautiful country. What makes it sometimes hard to traverse is the buttload of other tourists! So being able to come when you know numbers will be down and the country has been thoroughly cleaned up is the best of both worlds. There just might be some hoops to deal with on your way over... Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E34 · Tue, November 02, 2021

What’s the Deal with Solar Power in Thailand?

Greg interviews Tristan Knowles, an Australian expat in Thailand working for the Asian Development Bank, specializing in infrastructure finance in the Mekong region, including alternative energy such as solar power.  Greg begins by asking the obvious question: Thailand is practically constantly sunny, so why aren’t there solar panels on every rooftop? Tristan gives a detailed answer focusing on incentives. Obviously there’s an upfront cost to investing in solar power, whether you are a residence or a business. Most people need to be confident they will actually save money with the transition, but without proper financing and help from the government this is not always clear. So many early adopters in Thailand do it for environmental reasons, even if it’s not economical compared to traditional sources of energy.  Next, Tristan discusses the relative success of Vietnam, where the government has been more proactive in supporting investments in solar power. According to Tristan, Vietnam generates close to 10 times more electricity through solar than Thailand, partly by paying generators more for the extra energy they don’t use themselves. This is probably good, because if it’s one thing Thailand hates, it’s being #2 in Asia. Last, Greg and Tristan discuss some of the nuts and bolts requirements for going solar and the common obstacles that need to be surpassed for solar to be more accepted. Unfortunately, the simple take of “Hey this is a sunny country, perfect for solar!” doesn’t capture the reality of investment incentives and the appropriate government regulations to make the transition a reality. Luckily, things seem to be moving (slowly) in the right direction.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E33 · Tue, October 26, 2021

Thailand in Movies & TV vs. Thailand in Real Life

On today’s show Greg and Ed address a pretty simple question: When you see Bangkok in movies and in series, are you actually seeing an accurate portrayal of the way Bangkok REALLY is? The guys decide that the short answer is probably not (certainly not in Thai lakorn), but there are some interesting exceptions. For example, even big-budget movies such as “Hangover 2” and “Raya and the Last Dragon” get many details right, such as Fanta served in a plastic bag or ‘toilet paper’ (to Westerners) used as napkins on the dinner table.  Also, some shows (especially Western ones) get some facts correct but over-emphasize them. Yes, Thailand does have elephants, prostitutes, and transexuals - but not EVERY story needs to include them.  Greg then raises the elephant (heh heh, get it? we’re in Thailand) in the room: foreign productions in Thailand are censored before they are made, and Thai productions are censored after they are made. So, in general, no direct showing of corruption among the monkhood, police or army, government officials, and certainly no mention of the monarchy. Because of these strict guard rails, it’s almost impossible to accurately portray Thai society from within the country. Ed then laments the lack of a ‘realist’ cinema in Thailand, akin to the gritty dramas of the Hollywood of the 70s. Where are the Godfathers, Serpicos, and Taxi Drivers of Thai cinema? No one knows the answer to that question but both guys bring up various Thai movies and series that have flirted with realism in one way or another, including ‘The Serpent,’ ‘Hormones,’ ‘Changeland,’ ‘Girl From Nowhere,’ and, recently, ‘Bangkok Breaking.’ Hope springs eternal. Maybe. We guess. We hope.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E32 · Tue, October 19, 2021

From Coffee to Conflict: Kenyan Ambassador Lindsay Kiptiness

Greg interviews Lindsay Kiptiness, the Kenyan Ambassador to Thailand. Ambassador Kiptiness begins by introducing himself and explains his responsibilities as ambassador to Thailand, Laos, Vietnam, Cambodia and Burma. He explains his unfortunate arrival during COVID times, and his desire to really explore Thailand when it fully re-opens. The Kenyan healthcare system is behind Thailand’s, but he notes that Nairobi did serve as the center of COVID treatment for UN officials.  Greg asks the Ambassador about Kenyan products, and the Ambassador regales Greg with pitches for Kenyan coffee and Kenyan purple tea. No, that’s not a typo, and the Ambassador assures us it is the best tea in the world. :)  The conversation continues on to cover cultural misconceptions, the fickle nature of the global community in times of crisis, and the expatriate Kenyan (and African communities) in Thailand, which is growing, and the Thai community in Kenya, which unfortunately is not. Greg and the Ambassador discuss the reasons for this, and the Ambassador contends there is simply not enough information about Kenya and Africa in Thailand. In fact, the Ambassador makes the point that Greg has made many times on the podcast: all expats are to some extent ambassadors for their home country, and Mr. Kiptiness encourages all Kenyans in Thailand to do their best to promote their home country.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E31 · Tue, October 12, 2021

Dungeons & Dragons & Bangkok: An Alignment Chart for the City

Greg and Ed confess to their past as Dungeons and Dragons-loving young geeks. Who would have thought? The boys take inspiration from an old blog post of Greg’s where he applied D&D’s famous moral alignment chart to Bangkok. Moving through the list, Ed provides his feedback as each example is presented.  Greg begins by explaining the system (for those of you who were less geeky or simply missed D&D generationally). Then Greg gets into his examples. Who best represents ‘Lawful Good’ in Thai society? Well, most monks seem to be the obvious answer, and both guys think so, with the important ‘most’ caveat. However, some other alignments prove more tricky. Who or what represents ‘Chaotic Neutral’ in Thai society? What about ‘Lawful Evil’? The boys re-hash Greg’s old answers and see if they still apply today. Listen in for a discussion of all nine different alignments, but the lesson of the day is that it can be very insightful to examine Thailand through a variety of different lenses, be it the Seven Deadly Sins or something more contemporary, such as the moral universe of the most popular role-playing game of all-time.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E30 · Tue, October 05, 2021

Building a Thai YouTube Channel for Kids Into a Family Business

On this episode Greg chats with his buddy Jesse Davis. You might not know Jesse’s name, but if you have kids, chances are they know his daughter.  About four years ago Jesse and his daughter started Brianna’s Secret Club , a YouTube channel aimed at kids where Brianna and her pals do things like unwrap gifts, play with toys, build stuff, and do other kid-related things. The channel took off, and soon became a full-fledged family business, with budgets, schedules, assistants, and studio time. As of this airing, the channel has nearly 7 million subscribers, among the most popular YouTube channels in Thailand. Greg and Jesse chat about being judged by the YouTube algorithm, how a ‘quick video’ is never quick, the balancing act that played out between an office job and this new venture, and how Jesse and his wife ensure their kids stay grounded and treat this as a real job, with real responsibilities.  Lots of people come to Thailand with a camera in-hand and dreams of a content empire, but as Jesse explains, it looks easy to the casual viewer, but the work that goes on behind the scenes and behind the screens is anything but. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E29 · Tue, September 28, 2021

Expat Merit Badges: How Many Do You Have?

Greg and Ed discuss the concept of expat ‘merit badges’: those experiences that all long-time expats in Thailand tend to have that really remind you that you are in a unique place, distinct from where you grew up. These ‘badges,’ for lack of a better term, function as a loose type of seniority system. They are generally earned after some amount of time in the Kingdom, when you become comfortable with something that was once alien.  In the first few months you might get caught in a flood, but it will most likely be longer than that before you sit down with some Thai motorbike riders, share a drink of moonshine, and play the bastardized Thai version of chess. We go into detail on some other ‘level up’ experiences - motorbikes, driving, swearing, rock t-shirts and sticking things in your ear! Some of these experiences are positives, some negative, and some simply a sign that you’ve ‘gone native.’  Special thanks to our patrons, insightful as always, who wrote in with their suggestions for these badges of honor (and dishonor, to be honest). Listen in for all the specifics and please write in with more ideas so we can make ‘merit badges’ a whole series! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E28 · Tue, September 21, 2021

Accents, Dialects and Stereotypes with Stu Jay Raj

Greg interviews returning guest Stu Jay Raj - polyglot, expert language teacher and man about town. Greg begins by asking Stu about his recent series of videos analyzing the second language capabilities of various celebrities, including Jon Cena and Robert DeNiro. Stu responds by explaining his MindKraft program, which is kind of a general learning system that can be applied to languages of all types, from linguistics to music to computer coding. Stu expounds his belief that the human brain is naturally hardwired for language of all kinds, and as long as you have the right attitude and approach, you can learn practically any language at any age. Stu then introduced the concept of ‘neu,’ which roughly translates as an accent that is slightly ‘off’ or as Stu puts it, ‘smells’ bad. He then discusses all the variations of ‘off’ accents, from Thais who live outside of Bangkok, to those who grew up overseas. What follows is a fascinating discussion of how Thais process accents and the difference between native English speakers (who are used to hearing accented English) and native Thai speakers (who generally are not). Dig in for some super cool linguistic gems (that is if you can get over your jealousy of Stu’s knowledge and skills, which ain’t easy). :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E27 · Tue, September 14, 2021

This is Thailand With Scott & Trevor from Talk Travel Asia

Greg and Ed sit down with old friends and travel experts Trevor Ranges and Scott Coates of the Talk Travel Asia podcast. The guys run through a whole range of questions:  How do you first come to Thailand?  How did you meet each other?  How do you adapt to Thai food? How did you learn (or not learn) Thai language? What Thai cultural rules have you learned?  How long did it take to feel as if Thailand was really your home? And perhaps most significantly, how has Thailand changed you for the better?  It’s a fun discussion on all the mysteries of living in Asia that keep the place so interesting, and long-term expats amused, even after several decades. Listen in to hear the guys try to parse their unique experiences in the Land of Smiles over the last 20 years.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E26 · Tue, September 07, 2021

Bangkok's Seven Deadly Sins: Envy [S5.E26]

Continuing the series on the 7 Deadly Sins, Greg and Ed address the envious Envy. Of course, we love Bangkok, but no place is perfect - so, what are some things in other countries that we are envious of from our perch here? Greg begins by looking over the fence at coffee culture in Vietnam. Presumably due to French influence, Vietnam has an insane number of local cafes that take coffee (and ice cream, as Ed points out) deadly seriously. The strict government helps to keep Western chains to a minimum, and the result is a coffee lovers paradise. Ed starts his list by reminiscing about his early days in Thailand when there were no legal closing times, and Bangkok was like New York - a city that never sleeps. As old farts, Greg and Ed might not take advantage of it now, but that doesn’t mean they can’t miss it on principle. Next, Greg laments that lack of school bus infrastructure that he grew up with in Canada, where most kids can walk half a block, jump on a safe school bus, and end up at school a few minutes later. The reality in Bangkok is far more dire, as Greg has explained on previous shows. Ed follows with his jealousy of the safe roads in Japan and elsewhere, where a person can go on a bike or motorcycle ride without having to say goodbyes to all their loved ones.  Last, Greg reveals his sensitive side (who knew?) with an admission that he misses Autumn, an entire season that basically doesn’t exist in the tropics. Ed concurs, given that the fall is particularly beautiful in the American Midwest, as it is in the Canadian West. Ed finishes with a mini-rant on freedom of speech, which is not just an abstract principle but actually affects everyone in Thailand, both locals and expats alike. That being said, the guys still love living in Thailand. Go figure.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E25 · Tue, August 31, 2021

Golfasian’s Mark Siegel Talks Fees, Tees & Thai Golf Holidays

Greg interviews Mark Siegel, the director of Golfasian , one of Asia’s largest golf tour operators. Greg opens with the caveat that neither he nor Ed are golfers and leaves it up to Mark to do his best to sell us on a golf holiday in the Land of Smiles.  Greg begins by noting that his first thought of a relaxing holiday would not be to spend 4 hours walking around in the scorching sun, but Mark (in the first of his many insights) responds that if you’re back in the freezing winter of Canada you might! Mark then points out that the unique appeal of Thailand is that there are so many other things for tourists to do that even if you do spend 4 hours in the sun, the rest of the day can be spent getting a Thai massage or relaxing by the pool. In further discussions of what makes Thailand so good for golf compared to other destinations, Mark observes that there are over 60 (!) golf courses of all difficulty levels within proximity to Bangkok, and about one-third of them are owned by the military which means they are not run for profit and are incredibly cheap compared to places such as Japan. The guys continue with an in-depth discussion of the positive economic impact of golf courses on surrounding communities, what golf will look like in Thailand over the coming years, and how a golf holiday may actually be considered eco-friendly.  By the end, Greg and Ed are sold. At least in theory. If they don’t have to get off their couches. But you, you can go do it for real and tell us all about it! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E24 · Tue, August 24, 2021

A Few Surprising Details About Raising a Kid in Bangkok

In this episode, Greg fills us in on all the special concerns of being a parent in Bangkok. As if being a parent on its own didn’t have enough surprises, it turns out there are several things to keep in mind if you are expecting or even just bringing a child to the Big Mango. Pre-eminent is of course the issue of proper schooling, be it Thai or international or some combination of both. Greg explains the 3 C’s - cost, commute, and curriculum - that all new parents must build their life around. As Ed sits by in ignorant awe, Greg runs through other parental revelations, such as malls (of all things) actually being good things that can function as safe, fun, air-conditioned havens for kids. While Ed preaches the value of NOT driving in Bangkok, Greg lists all the advantages of having a car when burdened - er, blessed - with a child. More cool insights follow (did you ever consider looking at the size of the wheels on your stroller?), including a few lessons in cultural sensitivity.  Bangkok may have the reputation of a hedonistic city of fun and frivolity, but when the stork comes calling, you probably want to listen to this episode.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E23 · Tue, August 17, 2021

From Dreams to Comedy: Teaching Thai With a Twist

Greg interviews Kru Nan from the “You Too Can Learn Thai” podcast. Greg begins with the theory of the ‘critical period,’ that the human brain is primed to learn languages early in life but not later. Kru Nan notes that the research is not final and that adults might actually have some advantages over children. For example, adults may be able to absorb more information more quickly and also to contextualize it because of their pre-existing knowledge about the way the world works.  Next, Greg and Kru Nan discuss the difference between beginner, intermediate, and advanced learners, from the nature of the class preparation to the study materials themselves. This leads to a fascinating discussion about how culture affects the interpretation of anecdotes and dreams. Listen in for details, but suffice it to say ‘snakes’ don’t always mean the same thing around the world. Kru Nan follows with several more fascinating examples of how culture - both pop and traditional - affect our use of language.  If you have any interest in improving your Thai, definitely check out www.youtoocanlearnthai.com for resources and the podcast by clicking here .  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E22 · Tue, August 10, 2021

Don’t be That Guy: Expat Stereotypes to Avoid

Greg and Ed discuss some negative expat stereotypes - roughly the person you (probably) don’t want to become while living in Thailand...at least forever. We all fall prey to stereotypes sometimes - they have to come from some where - but if you’re not careful, you can become comfortable with some of these lifestyles and before you know it, they come to define your new identity in your new home, and suddenly you’re known as The Whiner, or The Apologist. And that’s just the beginning! Heaven forbid that people start to know you as The Premature Pontificator, or The Creep, The Slob, The Bubble Boy or The Player. Like we said, it’s hard to escape most of these all the time, but Bangkok’s mai-pen-rai lifestyle is addictive, and trust us - before you know it, a decade has gone by and you’re still wearing that old Chang singlet out to dinner that you bought when you first arrived on Khao San Road (that’d be The Slob). Have a listen and see how Greg and Ed define these common tropes.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E21 · Tue, August 03, 2021

The Bombing of Bangkok During World War 2

Greg interviews Khun Panarat Anamwathana about the bombing of Bangkok during World War II. Beginning with a discussion about how Thai people today perceive Thailand’s involvement in the Second World War, K. Panarat notes that many Thais’ attitudes are actually shaped by popular culture and specific romantic stories about that time period in Thai history. Most Thais today don’t realize the tragic nature of the conflict and the truly precarious nature of Thailand’s relationship with both Japan and the western powers. Next, K. Panarat discusses the fascinating role of Seni Pramoj, the Thai Ambassador to the United States and his role in leading the Seri Thai, or ‘Free Thai,’ movement, the pro-Western faction of Thai society. Because of his role, Thailand largely escaped punishment after the West’s victory. We also discuss which areas of the city were bombed, how the locals reacted and what role the government took vs grassroots groups in organizing evacuations. Greg and K. Panarat also elaborate on the unique role of Prime Minister Phibunsongkhram, one of the more colorful characters in Thai history as mentioned previously on the podcast . In short, although the Prime Minister officially supported the Japanese, he also sought aid from both Britain and America in a complicated game of diplomatic brinkmanship, shades of which you can still see in Thai society, where playing both sides can sometimes be a bit of an artform. Listen in for more details on what Greg and Ed think is the most fascinating period in Thai history.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E20 · Tue, July 27, 2021

Cultural Refresher: Books & Movies to Rouse Your Thailand Mojo

On a suggestion from listener Emily, Greg and Ed go back to basics with book and movie recommendations for people new to Thailand and Southeast Asia, or old-timers looking to refresh their knowledge after being disconnected during all this covid hullabaloo. Ed begins with three foundational books: the all-time classic ‘Lonely Planet Thailand,’ written by friend of the podcast Joe Cummings, the insightful (if a bit outdated) ‘Culture Shock: Thailand,’ and the super creative ‘Very Thai,’ by Phillip Cornwall-Smith (not to mention his followup ‘Very Bangkok’). Greg follows with his own key recommendations, including ‘The Thai Book’ by Ron Morris and  ‘A History of Thailand’ by Chris Baker and Pasuk Phongpaichit . Ed concurs and also puts a word in for ‘Thailand: A Short History,’ by David K. Wyatt. Turning to movies, Ed notes that all foreigners interested in Thai culture should see the ghost film ‘Nang Nak,’ which relates possibly the most popular story in all of Thai pop culture. For some history perspective, Francis Ford Coppola’s cut of ‘Suriyothai’ is a good place to start, but seeing some version of the famous (partly fictional) story ‘The King and I’ is probably a good idea. To appreciate the Thai fascination with animism and experience Thailand’s most accredited filmmaker, check out ‘Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall HIs Past Lives’, by the filmmaker whose name only Greg can pronounce (that’d be Apichatpong Weerasethakul). In closing, the guys make a few final suggestions. To learn about the man who has shaped modern Thai politics (for better or worse), read ‘Thaksin’ by Chris Baker, or grab ‘Anand Panyarachun and the Making of Modern Thailand’ by Dominic Faulder for a look at another legendary figure. Greg concludes by suggesting the under-appreciated film ‘City of Ghosts’ with Matt Dillon, a crime thriller set in Cambodia and Thailand.  These recommendations likely won’t shock anyone, but you gotta start somewhere, and this is it. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E19 · Tue, July 20, 2021

Fostering Hope in Khlong Toey with Bangkok Community Help

Things are not so great right now, and they’re even more desperate for people who live on the edge, which is why we’re pleased to chat with Friso Poldervaart, Greg Lange, and Kerv Chittaropas about their organization Bangkok Community Help .  The three are instrumental in providing the community of over 100,000 with food, medical supplies, living essentials and care packages in Khlong Toey, Bangkok’s biggest slum community. The discussion gets into the history of Khlong Toey, how the English word ‘slum’ does the people who live there a disservice, and the intricacies, difficulties, and triumphs of giving people a helping hand amid Thailand’s complicated lattice of permissions and regulations.  And of course all of this becomes exponentially more difficult - and necessary - in the midst of Covid-19. From cooking food to buying ambulances to painting bare concrete, Bangkok Community Help is putting charity first to help the underprivileged in Bangkok, and our guests give listeners an up close view of what it’s like. To donate to Bangkok Community Help, click here . Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E18 · Tue, July 13, 2021

Ed Reports Back: Visiting the Phuket Sandbox

Ed relates his 4-day adventure in the much-reported-on Phuket Sandbox. But spoiler alert: It wasn’t a great trip, mostly due to bad luck: it was gray and rainy almost the entire time, thus denying him quality beach time. Oh well.  But what was not bad luck was the way that the Thai government has marketed the Sandbox. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has repeatedly stated that Phuket is ‘open’ to tourism as of July 1st, and Ed took that to mean that the most popular area on the island, Patong, would actually be ready for tourists. Alas, this was not the case, with only a third of restaurants open and 95% of everything else closed.  With bad weather and not much to do, the trip was more or less doomed, but a glimmer of hope presented itself with a chance meetup with friend of the podcast Dan Fraser, travel expert extraordinaire, who coincidentally has been hired by the TAT to market Phuket to foreign tourists. Dan was able to explain that the TAT was focusing on ‘non-beach activities’ on the island of Phuket, such as environmental tours, museums, and local arts and culture events. Ed and Greg discuss this approach and largely agree with the TAT’s strategy; Ed just wishes he knew about it before booking a hotel in Patong. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E17 · Tue, July 06, 2021

Some Good (and Bad) Ways That Being an Expat Has Changed Us

Greg and Ed bare their souls and discuss how living in Thailand has changed them for the better - and for the worse. Greg begins by noting that since being in Thailand he has a much greater appreciation for the life struggles of the average person, in Thailand as well as the rest of the world.  Raised middle class in the West, it is easy to see yourself as ‘normal,’ when in reality you are quite lucky compared to many people around the world.  Ed then observes that living overseas has helped him to realize what is universal in the human experience and what is more cultural or unique.  The truth is that a lot of ‘Thai’ behavior is just human and not uniquely Thai, and the same goes for things that we think of as American. Greg follows by pointing out all of his accomplishments of the last twenty years and how making his way in the world as an expat has given him a different angle on the world than his friends back home. Not necessarily a ‘better’ angle, but certainly a different one.  Not being able to escape all the classes he teaches, Ed notes that he has learned a much greater appreciation for the boring subject of the ‘rule of law.’  Simple things that you take for granted back home - such as everyone who breaks the law gets punished - are not always true in Thailand, and the consequences can be grave.  As for how Thailand has made Greg and Ed worse, you’ll have to listen to the show to hear those confessions. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E16 · Tue, June 29, 2021

Entrepreneur Derek van Pelt on Business and Success in Thailand

It’s a dream of many to move to Thailand and start their own business - be it a spiffy e-commerce site, a beer bar on a beach, or some type of consultancy. But navigating the tricky cultural and bureaucratic hurdles isn’t something to be taken lightly. We’re joined by Derek van Pelt, a Thailand resident for 24 years and someone who has had a number of successes in a variety of different arenas. Currently a partner at Stonelotus Ventures and a long-time friend of Greg and Ed’s, Derek talks about what brought his past businesses success and why he chose to shut some, his advice to people who want to start their own business here, his role as President of the Thai-Canadian Chamber of Commerce , and insights into Bangkok’s business community. And of course, to discuss one of Greg’s favorite restaurant chains, getfresh , which Derek helps manage. It’s not an easy road for anyone, but as Derek notes, if you have the three Ps - patience, perseverance, and presence - making it work in Thailand will be a lot easier. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E15 · Tue, June 22, 2021

Between Two Worlds: Raising a Western Kid in an Eastern Culture

Diving into one of their more complex topics, Greg and Ed explore some of the questions that arise when raising a child with an appreciation for skepticism and science in the middle of a culture known for its superstitious beliefs. With Ed teaching a critical thinking class to Thai college students and Greg’s son asking questions about ghosts and praying, the boys have some interesting insights. Greg stresses the delicacy of parents in his situation: were he to directly state his opinion that ghosts are not real and praying for something has no effect on the outcome, it could create friction between his son and the Thai side of his family, who sit more on the ‘probably/definitely’ side of the scale. While trying to ensure his son grows up with an appreciation for evidence and science, this also provides a good lesson on respecting others’ beliefs, despite having different ones yourself. Where exactly is the instruction manual for this situation? The guys wrestle with the issue, doing their best to come up with some guidelines. Perhaps just appreciating the importance of threading the needle between the two cultures is the key to being a good parent. Greg’s not gonna be able to get it perfect, but maybe just trying is the point. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E14 · Tue, June 15, 2021

Tourism, Covid & Secret Recipes with Chin From Chili Paste Food Tours

Greg interviews Chin Chongtong, the founder of Chili Paste Food Tours , a food-based tourism company in Bangkok. Khun Chin first relates her difficult early days as an untrained tour guide, giving informal tours around Bangkok, having to negotiate both massive floods and military coups that shut down half the city. After getting a formal tour guide certificate from the Thai government, she and a friend developed the concept of food-based tours around Bangkok and occasionally other parts of Thailand. Chin is known for her highly specialized tours and her ability to seek out the most unique or hole-in-the-wall locations serving hard-to-find-food for any audience - vegetarians, spice-lovers, or those who are simply adventurous and want a surprise. Greg and Chin then trade some behind-the-scenes stories about being a tour guide, in particular the need to be flexible and to have backup plans for every eventuality.  Obviously operating a business that relies on tourism right now is not easy, and Chin explains how she’s adapted during Covid. In a city famous for having a million food options, it’s great to have Chin and a company like Chili Paste Tours to do all the legwork and research for you!  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E13 · Tue, June 08, 2021

Dealing With Annoying Expat Requests

On this show the guys keep it real by discussing things they do not like about being an expat. Plus, patrons and listeners write in with their own pet peeves about being a stranger in the strange land of Thailand.  Ed begins with his number one complaint: being mistaken for a tourist. Even after 20 years in Thailand, he is still clearly not Thai, and Thais (especially those looking to make a buck) assume that ‘not-Thai’ equals tourist. This annoyance manifests itself in many ways, from constant pestering to buy tchotchkes to take home (wooden frog anyone?) to taxi drivers that won’t use the meter. Ed wishes for a permanent sign (or maybe a tattoo?) that makes clear he’s not fresh off the plane. Greg follows with a whole series of annoyances sent in by listeners, from the classic ‘can you take care of my friend’s friend while they are in Thailand’ to the more obscure favors asked by former expats who still need help from someone in-country (power of attorney, really?). The complaints run the gamut, but with one overriding certainty: if the positives didn’t outweigh the negatives, we wouldn’t still be here. That doesn’t mean there are no negatives though. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E12 · Tue, June 01, 2021

History & Diplomacy with Canadian Ambassador Sarah Taylor

Greg and Ed interview Dr. Sarah Taylor, the Canadian Ambassador to Thailand to discuss her role in Thailand, Thailand’s role in Asia, and what Canada and Thailand have in common...and don’t have in common.  Ambassador Taylor comes from a long line of diplomats, with parents who met while on mission overseas. Once bitten by the travel bug, she ended up majoring in archaeology but later began a career in the Canadian foreign service. She has had stints in several countries around the world, including Indonesia, the Philippines, and China, before becoming Canada’s Ambassador to Thailand in 2019. The ambassador discusses her job as well as Canada’s relationship with Thailand, especially in light of Canada’s much larger neighbor often hogging the international spotlight. She also discusses how Canada’s experience dealing with indigenous peoples could be helpful to the Thai government in its relationship to the various hill tribes scattered throughout North Thailand.  Among other things, the guys pepper the Ambassador with questions about the trouble in Myanmar, the role of Asean, Canadian companies in Thailand, feminism in Thailand, and the most important issue of them all: the exorbitant price of maple syrup in Thailand.  Listen in if you want proof that a person can be both insanely erudite and successful and ‘aw shucks’ down-to-Earth as well.    Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E11 · Tue, May 25, 2021

Bangkok's Seven Deadly Sins: Sloth

The guys return to their ‘Seven Deadly Sins’ series to discuss the sin of ‘Sloth.’ Greg notes in an introduction that sloth can be a little hard to define in that all the other sins involve actively doing something, whereas sloth of course can refer to simply being really lazy. The guys agree that for the purposes of the show they will rule out simply staying home and being a slug on the couch to answer the question - what are some of the best ways to spend a day in Bangkok being as slothful as possible? Greg begins with a simple idea: hanging out at one of Bangkok’s many swanky 5-star hotels. Sounds simple but long-term expats often overlook the awesome infrastructure built to cater to tourists. We can use it too! He also recommends dailypass.com , a membership service that allows you to take advantage of a hotel’s full amenities (such as gym and swimming pool) without being a guest...for a fee. Last, Greg goes back to the old faithful, the ultra 5-star cinema experience where you can be insanely pampered while catching Hollywood’s latest. Ed pimps one of his old standbys, the Thai massage: undeniably cheap and relaxing, especially if you choose a variety to your liking. Next, weather permitting, he recommends simply chilling at one of Bangkok’s many parks as the Thais do, especially the idyllic Lumpini Park on Wireless Road. Rent a mat, bring some food, and become sloth. Last, Ed notes that Bangkok is world-famous for its many spas, where it’s actually possible to know what it’s like to be treated like royalty. The Bangkok Podcast thinks you're worth it! :)

S5 E10 · Tue, May 18, 2021

Co-Producer Oliver Ackermann on Making The Serpent in Bangkok

Greg and Ed interview Oliver Ackermann, one of the co-producers of the Thailand-based Netflix series “The Serpent,” about 1970s era serial killer Charles Sobhraj. Oliver is a partner in Living Films, a prominent production company based in Thailand famous for shepherding large foreign productions (such as Hangover 2, which our buddy Chris Lowenstein talked about on season 1 ) through the maze of Thai government regulations as well as Thai culture in general. Oliver walks through his process of finding locations in Thailand that can mimic almost any place in the world, and laying the groundwork for a small army of people to make a globetrotting series about murder and deception in Bangkok. Oliver also discusses his role helping foreign actors adjust to Thai culture and temperature, interfacing with the Thai film board that must approve all scripts, the amazing local Thai film crews, the BBC’s obsessive research on the source material for ‘The Serpent,’ and how to find dozens of genuine, functioning 1970s era automobiles in Thailand. In short, if you want to know anything about foreign film productions in Thailand, Oliver is your man. :)  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E9 · Tue, May 11, 2021

Joe Cummings Talks Thai Ganja, Protests and CIA Recruitment

This is the second episode of Greg and Ed’s interview with Joe Cummings, expat extraordinaire. This episode begins with a bang as the guys discuss the future of cannabis in Thailand and then goes right into the kind of story that has to be heard to be believed, but basically it involves an attempted recruitment of Joe into the CIA while he was a graduate student at the University of California at Berkeley. Enough said. The guys follow with a discussion of Joe’s take on the current round of protests and how they relate to all the protests of the past (and Joe has seen MANY). Ed and Greg give their perspectives about what may be different about the current protesters while Joe offers a fairly skeptical perspective but with a hint of optimism. Last, Greg asks Joe a question from our patron Phil, about what adventures are left in Thailand. Joe explains that there are actually plenty of islands in the South that are relatively untravelled in Thailand. Greg finishes off with a few classic ‘Joe stories’ from his long friendship with the legend.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E8 · Tue, May 04, 2021

Joe Cummings Talks Movies, Writing and Tourism Recovery

Greg and Ed do a tag team interview of legendary Thailand expat Joe Cummings, a renaissance man and expert on Thai culture if there ever was one. Joining us during a break on his latest film role, Joe and Greg discuss how they met in the jungles of Mae Hong Son 18 years ago, and discuss how Joe went from being known primarily as a writer (most famously founding Lonely Planet Thailand) to being an actor, musician and consultant on Southeast Asian mythology and culture, most recently for the Disney film ‘Raya and the Last Dragon’. Although a consummate traveler and consumer of Thai nightlife, Joe also explains that he has two Master’s Degrees, one in Southeast Asian Studies and one in Applied Linguistics. It’s safe to say Joe’s expertise is grounded both in the academic world and the real world of his hundreds of adventures in Thailand and around the world.  The guys then traverse a wide range of subjects from the apparent increase in Asian representation in American cinema to the extent to which both the U.S. and Thailand are really ‘melting pots’ of different ethnicities. Joe then discusses a recent documentary film on the controversial Dhammakaya sect of Buddhism that is based in Thailand.  Part One of the interview concludes with Joe’s take on the future of Thai tourism in light of the COVID pandemic. Many more interesting topics await in next week’s Part Two.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Bonus · Tue, May 04, 2021

Bonus Episode: Vaccine Travel and Quarantine!

Hey there! This type of content usually goes out to our patrons only, but we figured it was important and relevant to everyone, so we're putting it out to y'all! Our buddy Kevin and his wife Tip have just landed in Bangkok from the US after getting vaccinated and doing a whackload of paperwork. We check in with him to see what the process was like and get an idea of what people may have to deal with as they start to return to Thailand. Enjoy!

S5 E7 · Tue, April 27, 2021

A Few Unwritten Thai Cultural Rules You Gotta Learn

Utilizing a topic suggested by listener Wes, Greg and Ed discuss the unwritten ‘rules’ of Thai culture - the ones that everyone knows but aren’t written down anywhere, despite Ed wishing they were because he really has no idea what he’s doing right and wrong! As Greg notes, we all have to fake it until we make it. Greg then begins a series of specific puzzles that farangs have to navigate, including the proper use of the expletive ‘arai wa,’ knowing when or how much to lower your head when passing in front of someone, trying to determine the correct use of ‘nong’ and ‘phee’ when interacting with a stranger of indeterminate age, and how to wai someone when your hands are otherwise occupied.  The guys discuss each puzzle, but Ed notes his overarching problem: what to do when Thai people treat him as a foreigner and don’t follow Thailand’s cultural norms. Should farangs follow Thai rules when Thais don’t? No one knows! But Greg and Ed agree that the impact of these difficulties is lessened by Thais flexibility and general forgiving nature. So do your best out there fellow expats, but don’t worry about it too much. It’s all ‘mai pen rai’ in the end. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E6 · Tue, April 20, 2021

Being Funny in Bangkok: Three Local Comedians Weigh In

Greg interviews three local comedians, Justin St-Denis, Chris Raufheisen, and Tana Sukke, about life as a stand-up in Bangkok. After a few quick bios Greg dives right in with his brief experience as a standup in Canada and then later in Bangkok, which kicks off a discussion about the recent history of western-style stand-up comedy in Bangkok.  Tana discusses the difficulty of doing comedy in a foreign language, as well as the difference between English comedy and Thai comedy. Greg and the gang try to figure out the seeming Thai preference for silly gags and sound effects and discuss famous Thai comedian Note Udom and his Netflix special. According to Tana, Note is unique in that he’s truly doing stand-up as opposed to playing a character on stage.  Greg then takes questions from the patrons, and the first question involves the effect of ‘pc’ or ‘woke’ culture on comedy in Bangkok. Luckily, the local comics agree that the Thai scene has largely been immune to the sometimes judgmental audiences in the West, partly due to tourists’ expectations that Bangkok is a somewhat raucous and racy place to begin with. But audiences filled with Thai people tend to carry on the ‘mai pen rai’ attitude that Thais are famous for, rarely taking offense and rolling with most jokes. Yeah Thai culture! Check out Raw Comedy Bangkok for information on future shows.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E5 · Tue, April 13, 2021

Is There an Expat Hierarchy - and Does it Even Matter?

We think almost every long-term expat has been asked how long they’ve been here before, only to see the challenge, throw down their card, and ask the inevitable: “How about you?” It’s an unspoken contest. But does it even matter? Greg and Ed tackle this issue of status, noting that although they’ve been in Thailand TWENTY YEARS, that number is dwarfed by such legendary expats as Joe Cummings (soon to be a guest on the podcast), who arrived in Thailand in 1977. Ed jokes that part of the appeal of the podcast is that the guys love to talk about all their mistakes and misunderstandings, but certainly they have learned a lot in twenty years. Greg throws out the distressing thought that simply being here twenty years may not lead to any more wisdom than being here ten, as Ed notes he probably is at his peak knowledge of Thailand now only because of his role as co-host of the podcast, which forces him to raise his game. The boys end up trading stories about various old timers they have met, with Joe C. leading the pack for Greg and a Catholic priest doing so for Ed. In the end, it’s clear that the number of years you have in Thailand doesn’t really mean diddly squat unless you spend that time pushing yourself into learning more about the country and engaging with its endlessly fascinating culture and people.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E4 · Tue, April 06, 2021

The Ups and Downs of Retiring in Thailand

Greg interviews Colonel Johnny Thoyts, an old friend who has been retired in Thailand for over 20 years. Johnny has had an interesting time in Thailand - as the former British military attaché, he summarizes his career and his various experiences living in Thailand and dealing with some of the country’s top military and diplomatic brass.  Next, Johnny recounts his life in Bangkok, Hua Hin, and more recently Khorat. Greg and Johnny discuss the cultural quirks of Thailand, from the Thais reaction to older foreigners living in Thailand to the Thai attitude of ‘mai pen rai.’  Then, Johnny relates the changing retirement rules in Thailand, including the cash required in Thai banks to support a retirement visa. He emphasizes the fairly harsh nature of Thai laws that apply to resident expats, as opposed to the laws of neighboring countries such as Malaysia. Although he likes his life in Thailand and has resigned himself to it, his dream (and the dream of many expats) is that Thailand revise the laws that apply to long time foreign residents who pay taxes, support their local communities, and have families. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E3 · Tue, March 30, 2021

Oh Crap, What Now? Losing Your Job in Thailand

The guys discuss the sticky situation of what it means to lose your job in Thailand as an expat, and the relative insecurity that all of us have, no matter how long we’ve lived here.  Ed gives a quick overview of the law: if you have a non-immigrant ‘B’ visa connected to a work permit and a Thai company, and your work permit is canceled, then your visa is also automatically canceled and you have exactly 7 days to leave the country. Now it may be possible to re-enter as a tourist, of course, but even that can cause significant life disruptions because it is not possible to get a new work permit with a tourist visa! Greg jumps in with a personal story of losing his job last year due to the ravages of COVID on the travel industry. He was in a particularly scary situation given that he is married with a kid, and even with all his years in Thailand, he would have been subject to the same 7-day rule as everybody else. Thankfully he had some luck and found a new job. Bullet dodged.  Greg and Ed discuss the fairness (or more accurately, unfairness) of the rule and if there are any possible ways around it, and in general lament the harshness of some Thai laws as they relate to expats, as opposed to tourists. Suffice it to say that they don’t call Thailand the ‘Land of Smiles’ because the expats here are always smiling. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E2 · Tue, March 23, 2021

Fighting the HIV Stigma in Thailand

Greg interviews Midnight Poonkasetwattana and Inad Rendon, the Executive Director and Program Director at APCOM , a nonprofit organization that advocates on behalf of gay men who are facing discrimination. We begin by raising the issue of the image of Thailand as a very gay-friendly place. Does the reality match the reputation? According to Midnight, in some ways, because Thai culture is less confrontational and LGBTQI people in Thailand are unlikely to face violence. However, Midnight notes that the West often provides legal protections lacking in Thailand, such as same-sex marriage or partnership rights.  Inad tells his story of living in the Philippines as a gay and HIV-positive man, and the differences between his past life and what it’s like living in Thailand. In general, the Philippines was more conservative and traditional, given the influence of Catholicism and Islam. But Inad concurs that it’s a mistake to think of Thailand as a gay paradise. Check out TestBKK for more info on what’s being done in this regard. The men continue with details on the myriad obstacles and difficulties that LGBTQI individuals encounter in Thailand, and the role that NGOs play in countries that don’t have an extensive social safety net. Greg and the guests focus on the treatment of HIV-positive men in Thailand, how education can help remove ignorance around the situation, and how the situation is improving. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S5 E1 · Tue, March 16, 2021

Looking Back, Looking Forward: Welcome to Season 5!

Welcome to season 5! Greg and Ed discuss the new season, which admittedly is mostly a continuation of the last season - if it ain’t broke, etc. But some nostalgia is warranted, and the guys reminisce about the last two seasons since Evo’s departure. Ed can’t believe he’s done 150 shows plus, and both guys make some modest suggestions for changing things up. Maybe some shows should include video, at least for the patrons? Ed suggests revisiting earlier topics and updating them with new info. Greg concurs, and talks about some plans he has to get some higher-profile guests.  Inserted are interviews with our gracious former co-hosts, Tony Joh and Evo Terra. Tony and Greg reminisce about the let’s-see-if-this-works experience of season 1 and gives a few updates on his current status in Canada, planning a return to Japan and/or Europe, and re-launching the Tokyo Podcast . Evo then talks about his life in Arizona, and his insistence on using Thai in every Thai restaurant he can find in the States. Turns out Evo has is keeping very busy as a podcast producer extraordinaire and making his own show, Podcast Pontifications - unsurprising from one of the earliest podcasters on planet Earth.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E73 · Tue, March 09, 2021

Taking a short break!

Hey guys, Greg and Ed are taking this week off for a short break, but we'll be back with the first episode of SEASON FIVE (OMG) of the show on March 17. See you then!

S4 E72 · Tue, March 02, 2021

Becoming Thai: Talking With Chris Larkin from ThaiCitizenship.com

Greg interviews Chris Larkin, creator of ThaiCitizenship.com , a website that answers all the confusing, conflicting, confounding questions about getting citizenship in Thailand. Half Thai-Half Australian, Chris grew up mainly in Australia and got his Thai passport in his early twenties. Now married to a woman from New Zealand, it was their yearly slog up to Chaeng Wattana to deal with visas and work permits that led them down the path of getting Thai citizenship for her, and setting up a site to help others get the info they need. Greg and Chris walk through the two main routes to citizenship: via permanent residency, or applying directly via marriage. The requirements are similar but not exactly the same, and some strategy is needed to determine what is best for you. Chris runs through some common misunderstandings (that you must be fluent in Thai for example), discusses the process, and lays out what he has learned over the years about best practices.  In short Chris says that the process is definitely somewhat complicated and a lot bureaucratic, but if you dot all your i’s and cross all your t’s, you are very likely to end up with a shiny Thai passport. Good news for Greg and Ed, and our listeners too! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E71 · Tue, February 23, 2021

Wonderful Weirdos: Tales of Bangkok Characters Good, Bad & Strange

If Thailand is good for one thing, it’s ‘interesting’ expats, and Greg and Ed keep it light with a humorous discussion of some of the crazy characters they’ve met over the years in Bangkok. All names have been changed of course, but Greg recounts a few stories of ‘Chandler’, an out-of-control, heavy drinking, motorcycle riding, jacket busting, wrecking ball of an expat, as well an African refugee who recounted stories of civil war that sobered Greg up real quick. Ed counters with a few stories of a chap who couldn’t open his refrigerator door lest he be electrocuted and spent his evenings dropping acid and watching his pet turtles race, as well as a Swedish friend who ended up getting deported and incarcerated back home on the continent. There are always stories to entertain and lessons to learn if you ask a question and listen, and Bangkok is a fantastic place to mine for stories and lessons. And remember - if you’re bored in Bangkok, the problem ain’t Bangkok. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E70 · Tue, February 16, 2021

Ganjapreneur Kitty Chopaka Discusses the Marijuana Landscape in Thailand

Ed interviews Chokwan ‘Kitty’ Chopaka, an expert on the cannabis industry in Thailand. The interview begins with a discussion of how Kitty ended up in this field - strangely, it was her mother that suggested she’d make a great ‘ganjapreneur.’ After trying a cannabis venture in the U.S., Kitty founded the Thai company Elevated Estate , which serves as both an educator to the entire industry and a consultant to cannabis startups in Thailand.  Ed and Kitty work through the roughly four categories of the cannabis industry: hemp products with very low levels of THC, CBD oil also with low levels but designed as a medical treatment, medical marijuana with high levels of THC, and full blown recreational cannabis. It turns out the Thai government just recently started accepting applications from prospective hemp farmers, and Kitty thinks that products could hit the shelves by the end of the year. Kitty walks us through what’s available in Thailand, what might be available soon, and where the gray lines (and red tape) are that make this burgeoning industry such a fascinating and potentially important one. The future is bright even if the current state of affairs is murky and confusing.  Listeners are encouraged to contact Kitty at Elevated Estate with questions or queries about cannabis-related startups in Thailand.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E69 · Tue, February 09, 2021

Neighborhood Focus: Soi Suan Phlu

In a return to our Neighborhood Focus series, Greg and Ed check out Soi Suan Phlu and some of the surrounding area, broadly known as either Sathorn or Yen Akat. We start with a discussion about Suan Phlu of yesteryear, when almost all foreigners had to go there for a miserable immigration ritual. Perhaps unsurprisingly, Suan Phlu seemed dreary and certainly not a place you would hang out once you were done wrestling with the Thai bureaucracy. However, over the years, Soi Suan Phlu has slowly changed. Although the immigration office is still open, it is used primarily for ASEAN immigrants, with most farangs relegated to a long ride out to the super dome at Chaeng Wattana. But the effect on Suan Phlu has been undoubtedly positive. Although far from the gentrification of Thong Lor, it has its share of cocktail bars, cozy coffee shops, farang food, and a serious plethora of Thai street food of all types.  The long and short of it is that Soi Suan Phlu is well worth a visit for the cozy neighborhood atmosphere that combines a majority Thai population with farang-friendliness. The Bangkok Podcast says: Check it out. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E68 · Tue, February 02, 2021

Mark Wiens on the Joy of Eating Thai Food

Greg interviews Mark Wiens, an old friend known far and wide for his awesome YouTube videos about eating food. Good food. Weird food. Scary food. Any type of food. Mark tells us how he started as a regular food blogger, slowly morphing into video as the technology improved, and his efforts to keep up with Google’s demands while still putting out quality content. The effort seems to have paid off - 7 million subscribers can’t be wrong! Greg and Mark also discuss the nuts and bolts of running a YouTube channel, the video equipment he uses, his SEO strategies, and, of course, favorite street stalls, favorite restaurants, and favorite food inside and outside of Thailand. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E67 · Tue, January 26, 2021

Bangkok’s Seven Deadly Sins: Greed

This week Greg and Ed return to the Seven Deadly Sins series with a discussion of GREED in Thai culture. As an opening caveat, Greg makes clear that greed exists in all cultures, and the guys aren’t saying it’s worse in Thailand than anywhere else, but every country and culture deals with it in different ways, and the guys want to talk their way through its different facets to try and understand it better. Ed begins with the claim that there is something in Thai-Chinese culture about the pursuit of wealth that is more open and less modest than in the American Midwest where he grew up. He speculates that it might be the northern European influence on the area, built on the Protestant Work Ethic which values labor but tends to be low key and not ostentatious when it comes to money. The guys continue their discussion, touching on data about the high consumer debt in Thailand, how expensive things like cars and bags give you status (even if you can’t afford it), and some choice words from previously published studies on Thais and greed that ponder if the country’s endemic corruption is something that can ever be solved. It’s a big, deep, messy, and complicated topic, and Greg and Ed just scratch the surface. What are your thoughts on how greed presents itself in Thai culture?  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E66 · Tue, January 19, 2021

Sawatdee Cough: Bangkok’s Air Pollution Crisis

Greg interviews Khun Weena, founder of the Thailand Clean Air Network and an expert on air pollution in Thailand to discuss the who, the what, the why and the WTF behind Thailand’s annual season of poisonous, toxic air.  She begins by outlining the fundamental problem: more or less unchecked economic growth, not only in Thailand but around Asia as well, especially in gigantic countries such as India and China. Although the problem has been around for a while , public interest has peaked due to the increased spread of information about the problem. According to Khun Weena, one problem is Thailand’s actual standard for what counts as a problem: the current cutoff of PM 2.5 is 50 parts per million, but the WHO recommends a level of 25 parts per million. Further, there is a misperception of the actual risk of bad air: although the coronavirus has killed 65 Thais, it is estimated that 66,000 (!) Thais die per year due to illnesses directly related to air pollution. Greg and Khun Ween continue to discuss many facets of the problem, including what changes Thailand can make to move in the right direction. Although the problem is complex and longstanding, there is increased focus on the issue by the general public and NGOs such as Khun Weena’s, and the Thai government is slowly...slowly moving into action.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E65 · Tue, January 12, 2021

The Eclipse That Changed the Course of Thai History

S4 E64 · Tue, January 05, 2021

Kicking 2020 to the Curb: New Year’s Eve Stories from Better Times

In order to wash the bad taste of New Year’s Eve 2021 out of our mouths, Greg and Ed discuss what New Year’s Eve means in Bangkok. Normally it’s one of the biggest nights of the year, but due the resurgence of COVID, this year was fairly tame. So the guys decided to discuss the holiday during better times.  Ed begins by noting that the two biggest places to witness the countdown and fireworks in Bangkok are at Central World in the shopping district, and near Saphan Taksin bridge on the river. Both guys strongly prefer the river, as the view is better and the crowd less oppressive. Greg shares an anecdote from noob NYE that required a LONG walk home due to lack of cabs. (NYE tip: Don’t forget to plan a way home!)  The guys also reminisce about their epic New Year’s on a boat that got a little too close to the fireworks , resulting in an unexpected bath for a few party goers. This leads to a discussion of several memorable Bangkok New Year’s - some a blast and unfortunately some tragic. NYE always seems to be an adventure in Bangkok, one way or the other. On a positive note, the guys want to do a podcast Meetup next New Year’s on the river, so mark your calendars now. :) Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E63 · Tue, December 29, 2020

Confronting Thailand's Problem With Violence Against Women Part 2

The issue of violence against women in Thai culture is not often discussed. Awareness is low and even when the topic is brought up, the default reaction is to shussssshhhhh, forget about it, don’t make waves. Obviously this is not a tenable solution. Emma Thomas ( Under the Ropes ) and Nana Wipaphan Wongsawan ( Thai Consent ) are two women who are fighting to change this. In part 2 of a 2-part interview Greg sits down with both of them to discuss why Thai culture is like this and the issues and frustrations that arise from trying to help it evolve. In the course of the conversation we hear stories about how dismissive the police can be when a victim comes forward, the role Thai languages plays in preventing the problem from being understood, how bro culture often just lets it slide, and insights into why sexual assaults are sometimes treated as a minor annoyance rather than a serious attack. But it isn’t all bad news - just the fact that organizations like theirs exist is a big step forward, and they also report on some green shoots as awareness around the issue slowly but surely starts to grow. For some further insight into the issue, you can read this great article that Emma wrote for Unearth Women. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E62 · Tue, December 22, 2020

Confronting Thailand’s Problem With Violence Against Women Part 1

The issue of violence against women in Thai culture is not often discussed. Awareness is low and even when the topic is brought up, the default reaction is to shussssshhhhh, forget about it, don’t make waves. Obviously this is not a tenable solution. Emma Thomas ( Under the Ropes ) and Nana Wipaphan Wongsawan ( Thai Consent ) are two women who are fighting to change this. In part 1 of a 2-part interview Greg sits down with both of them to discuss why Thai culture is like this and the issues and frustrations that arise from trying to help it evolve. In the course of the conversation we hear stories about how dismissive the police can be when a victim comes forward, the role Thai languages plays in preventing the problem from being understood, how bro culture often just lets it slide, and insights into why sexual assaults are sometimes treated as a minor annoyance rather than a serious attack. But it isn’t all bad news - just the fact that organizations like theirs exist is a big step forward, and they also report on some green shoots as awareness around the issue slowly but surely starts to grow. For some further insight into the issue, you can read this great article that Emma wrote for Unearth Women. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E61 · Tue, December 15, 2020

The Annual Bangkok Podcast Listener Q&A Spectacular

It’s been a while, but the guys jump into a Q&A show, where they answer questions from listeners. The topics are incredibly wide-ranging - everything from our first Thailand memory to the equipment we use to record to our rules for ‘wai-ing’ service staff! We also touch on questions about whiskey, COVID, Thailand’s tourism outlook, whether or not the infamous commuter vans are safe, and of course, things that Thailand does better than they do back home.  Lots more where those came from, so listen in for our deeply insightful answers to our listener’s most probing questions. :) Huge thanks to everyone who sent us their queries! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E60 · Tue, December 08, 2020

Artist Alex Face on his Iconic Work, Inspiration, and Space Art

Greg interviews celebrated Thai artist Alex Face ( https://www.facebook.com/Alexfacebkk ), known mostly for his large building-sized murals, which appear not only in Bangkok but also in other cities around the world. Alex begins by recounting his interest in art as a child, which slowly developed into a passion and later a career. He explains his love of graffiti (both legal and illegal) and then discusses his education and attempts to live in other countries, including Korea and later England.  Interestingly, Alex mentions becoming a parent as a major turning point in his life, but not one that led him to a more conventional job. Instead, he focused on finding a way to support his family as an artist and continuing the struggle no matter what obstacles got in his way. Greg and Alex wind through multiple topics, including the art scene in Thailand relative to the West and the role of politics in modern Thai art. Listen in for an in-depth discussion with a truly unique Thai artist.  Also, here’s a link to a neat expat promotion - basically a free 500 baht! https://www.facebook.com/socialgiver/posts/4692824567458610 Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E59 · Tue, December 01, 2020

How Would You Rate Your Thai Cultural Assimilation?

Greg and Ed dive into a great question for expats in Thailand: to what extent are you actually integrated into mainstream Thai culture? Greg posted a quick survey on our Facebook page and uses some responses as a jumping-off point for discussion.  Ed begins by guessing he’s probably a 5 on a scale of 1-10. He never socializes with only Thai people, but has good enough Thai language that he can handle himself on his own in the city. He does note though that Thailand may be different than some Western countries, in that there may be a level of assimilation that Thai people don’t really want foreigners to achieve. Greg states he’s probably a 5 or 6. His Thai is getting better and he sometimes attends family events that are 100% Thai, but still...by this point he should be busting out soliloquies in the park!  Greg then reads a number of quotes from listeners about their relative absorption into Thai society with a variety of answers, but most long-timers seem to come at the 4-6 range.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E58 · Tue, November 24, 2020

Bangkok’s Craft Brew Godfather: A Chat With Khun Chit

Greg interviews the fascinating Wichit Saiklao, godfather of craft beer in Thailand and founder of Chit Beer , with podcast friend Scott Coates sitting in for fun. Khun Chit relates how he first learned about homebrewing while living in the States, and after returning to Thailand and buying a small house on the river island of Ko Kret, he decided to give it a try with a kit he bought on Amazon. Just seven years later, he is a legend of Thai brewing, not just because of his own popular craft beers but also because of his brewing school which now has thousands of graduates.  Khun Chit explains his approach to Thai law, which in general prohibits small batch brewing: by focusing on staying under the radar while campaigning to change the law and spreading his love of brewing to his ‘army’ of brewers, he hopes to push Thai culture in the right direction. He estimates that there are already tens of thousands of Thai people brewing quietly at home, a number so large that eventually the Thai government will likely have to accept as a fact of life.  Greg, Scott and Khun Chit discuss the community of brewers that he has fostered and spread around the country, his ignoble first attempts at brewing, and what drives him forward. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E57 · Tue, November 17, 2020

Thailand’s Freedom-of-Expression Minefield

Greg and Ed consider the issue of freedom of expression in Thailand and the extent to which it is or is not compatible with Thai culture. The topic is sparked by THAT case...the one about a TripAdvisor reviewer who harshly criticized a Thai resort, only to have the Thai resort file a criminal defamation action against him.  After two days in jail and a negotiated settlement, all was well until TripAdvisor put a warning on their website indicating what the resort had done. Ed gives a basic rundown of Thai defamation laws and the sad fact in the case of a criminal defamation action, the ‘truth’ is not necessarily a defense unless the court determines the issue is a matter of ‘public interest.’ The guys go back and forth on whether Western-style freedom of expression is a true universal or whether it is more specific to a country’s culture. Last, the boys consider the younger generation of Thais and whether they may be ready to actually push traditional Thai culture to evolve in a free-er direction, at least when it comes to speech.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E56 · Tue, November 10, 2020

Linguist Rikker Dockum on Raising Multilingual Kids

Greg interviews repeat guest Rikker Dockum about the ups and downs of raising bilingual children, beginning with an update on (now Dr) Rikker’s life back in the US - including his own two kids, both products of two cultures.  Next, Rikker segways into some common myths and truths about language acquisition. First, he dispels the idea that a parent needs to have a high level of fluency in a language to avoid hurting a child’s ability to learn it. In fact, kids are so adapted to learning languages that any exposure, even imperfect, is helpful. Second, Rikker discusses the ‘critical period’ of language learning for children, something this is true but subject to much debate about its depth and extent. Greg chimes in with his own experiences raising a bilingual son in Thailand.  The guys move on to discuss many other language issues, such as how to motivate children, the difference between spoken acquisition and learning how to read and write, techniques for getting kids to focus on language lessons, and mixing multiple languages together.  Listen in for a quite broad discussion of a common issue facing expats in cross-cultural marriages.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E55 · Tue, November 03, 2020

Bangkok's Seven Deadly Sins: Wrath

The boys reenter the world of the Seven Deadly Sins with a discussion of ‘Wrath’ in Thai culture. What’s the angle? Well, here is Ed’s theory: every society has roughly the same amount of total anger, but in the West negative feelings are expressed in small amounts over time. However, in Thai culture, where there is pressure to always say ‘mai pen rai,’ negative emotions build up over time and come out in an explosion. In an entirely unscientific discussion, the guys give examples that might support the theory, ranging from musings on why Thailand is the world leader in penis hackings (and thankfully, penis reattachments), to the time a mentally ill man unfortunately attacked the statue of Brahma at the Erawan Shrine only to be beaten to death by the crowd, to the effect that soap operas have on impressionable viewers - and even a scientific paper on the repressed emotions of Thai children from 1976!  No definitive conclusions are reached, but with a combined nearly 40 years in Thailand, Greg and Ed have plenty of interesting anecdotes to discuss.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E54 · Tue, October 27, 2020

Phra Pandit on the Buddhist Concepts of Birth, Death & Rebirth

In this episode of Bangkok Podcast Metaphysics, Greg interviews our favorite guest, Phra Pandit, about notions of heaven and hell in Thai Buddhism. Phra Pandit begins by explaining the difference between reincarnation and rebirth. In Theravada Buddhism, there is not a belief in a constant, steady soul. Instead, life force, for lack of a better term, passes from one lifetime to another, like a flame from one candle to the next. In general, a person cannot remember his or her past lives, but a few, enlightened individuals can.  Phra Pandit continues by explaining that a person can be reborn in this world, but may very well be reborn into a layer of heaven or hell, all determined by one’s build up of karmic merit or sin. He outlines what specific behaviors will result in someone moving ‘down’ or moving ‘up’ in the afterlife. Next, he discusses the role of angels or ‘devas’ in the system. The guys also touch on the topic of enlightenment, and Phra Pandit explains that an ‘Arahant’ is someone who has stepped out of the cycle of rebirth completely and is simply not reborn at all. We all have something to look forward to! And just for our patrons, the worst selfie ever taken by Greg with Phra Pandit at his temple. Double chins FTW! Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E53 · Tue, October 20, 2020

Greg and Ed Debate the Merits of Thai Massage

In this episode, the guys debate the pros and cons of one of Thailand’s most famous cultural pastimes. Despite being friends for going on 20 years now and agreeing on a lot of things, Greg and Ed do NOT agree on Thai Traditional Massage (TTM). Ed loves it, Greg...does not.  Ed argues that while TTM may not be for everyone, its unique mix of pain and pleasure are deeply relaxing and well worth it in the long run. Greg contends the pain ain’t worth it, and there are countless better ways to spend your time (such as taking a nap - they’re free!). The boys go back and forth in their deeply lucid and insightful way on the nuances of the experience, but in the end both agree that all visitors to Thailand should try it at least once.  For specific DO’s and DON’Ts and recommendations on where to go, listen in to the full episode.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Tue, October 13, 2020

Bangkok’s Evolving Health & Fitness Mindset

If you’ve been in Bangkok for any length of time you’ve seen the ‘healthy lifestyle’...uh...lifestyle...change a great deal. But why, how, and to what end? Greg interviews Jack Thomas, founder and CEO of BASE Fitness to chat about the evolution.  After several years of high-pressure sales and overly-packed gyms, the scene kind of imploded in the mid-2000s, led by one famous name that rose higher and fell harder than any. But the industry is back and healthier than ever, driven in part by the changes in cultural attitudes towards health and fitness that seem to have taken place in the last 10 years.  From places like BASE and the strategies they use to help their clients get fit to home-based businesses delivering healthy food and drinks, Jack and Greg discuss why Bangkok is now a much more hospitable place for the genuine health enthusiast than it once was. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E50 · Thu, October 08, 2020

David Robinson Talks Heritage and Creativity on the Chao Phraya River

Greg interviews David Robinson, co-founder of the Creative District Foundation, which promotes the mighty Chao Phraya River community for tourism and cultural purposes through the excellent website Bangkok River , which provides resources, history, and insight into the communities that line it. But before all this happened, David - a former resident of Sydney and London - felt the neighborhoods around the river in Bangkok were under-utilized and under-developed. (Greg and Ed wholeheartedly agree.) He decided that Bangkok needed an organization that united all the varied groups that had an interest in promoting these areas and BAM - Bangkok River Partners was formed.  Greg and David discuss the unique neighborhoods along the river, noting how the communities often vary by common profession or craft, while David also points to their great ethnic diversity. Both guys riff on the controlled craziness of Bangkok culture and the extent to which neighborhoods along the river exemplify this fact.  Last, David details the concept of the ‘Creative District’ a stretch of neighborhoods particularly packed with religious and artistic sites that has become a tourist attraction in Bangkok. There are great things planned for Bangkok, and the Chao Phraya River will play a central role far into the future.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E51 · Tue, October 06, 2020

Neighborhood Focus: Chinatown & Talad Noi

Greg and Ed return to their ‘Neighborhood Focus’ series with a review of the Chinatown-Talad Noi area of Bangkok, a neighborhood is near and dear to the boys’ hearts, as Greg used to live there, and back in the day he introduced Ed to the area’s many charms.  Greg begins with a mini-history of Chinatown and its many historic streets, most of which you can still walk on today. Ed summarizes Chinatown as ‘chaos with street food.’ Its popularity is extremely high with both Thais and foreigners but even during current COVID times with its dearth of farangs, the neighborhood is still crowded.  Speaking of food, Greg recommends Nai Lek Ouan, the ultimate noodle shop on Yaowarat Soi 11, while Ed throws his two cents in with Chijuya, a vegetarian sushi place off of Song Wat Road.  Despite not having many great opportunities for long-stay living, there are many small hostels and a few nice hotels, like the Grand China Hotel and the gorgeous Shanghai Mansion. Next, the guys herald the ‘Creative District’ along the river in Talad Noi, an area mentioned in last week’s show. A neighborhood of old apartments and working-class shops with a vaguely Chinese-slash-‘Blade Runner’ feel, it is the ultimate place for a casual walk through intriguing back sois, especially if you like to take pictures. The boys even chanced upon a very hip club on the river called Baan Rim Nam , a perfect place to hang for food and drink along the river, and the site of our next meetup - whenever that is. Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E49 · Tue, September 22, 2020

The Unique Role That Teachers Play in Thai Culture

Ooooh, topical! This week, Greg and Ed discuss the unique role of teachers in Thai society, where educators occupy a uniquely reverential role, often in stark contrast to western countries, where it is ‘just another job.’ Ed notes that the issue of how teachers are treated is near and dear to his heart, given that he has spent the last twenty years teaching Thai students. But Ed makes clear that (in his opinion) there’s a contradiction between the type of independent-minded graduates that Thailand would like to create and a traditional education system that requires this level of reverence for teachers. It’s almost as if critical thinking and independent thought actually depend on disobedience (at least a little anyway). Greg reads an interesting passage on the history of Thai education that notes that monks originally worked as teachers, which leads to his theory that some of the extreme respect afforded monks was transferred to the concept of “a teacher” as they split off into their own profession. Ed concurs and adds that Chinese culture is steeped in Confucianism’s reverence for social hierarchies, and Thailand likely was affected by the spread of Chinese culture across Asia. Either way, there’s no need to listen to us - the Thai students protesting now are pretty much saying the same thing! We also take a listener voicemail all about the best pizza in Bangkok! We’re not experts, but our friends at BK Magazine have something to add . Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E48 · Tue, September 15, 2020

An Economist Speaks: The Numbers on Thailand's COVID Economy

First, we want voicemails from our listeners! Become a friend on LINE (scan the QR Code below) and send us your thoughts, greetings, or an awesome joke.  In a great show for economics nerds and anyone just interested in how the Thai economy is faring, Dr. Jessica Vechbanyongratana returns to discuss the Thai economy during the pandemic and what - if anything - we can do to help the recovery. Spoiler: not much  Beginning with anecdotes of how economists were already predicting a bad 2020 at the end of 2019, Greg and Jessica get into just how badly the economy is doing with stats on some of Thailand’s major sectors. On top of that, the Thai GDP is down 12% and meets the official definition of a recession. Unemployment numbers look a little better but are difficult to evaluate due to Thailand’s very large informal economy.  Next, Greg and Jessica get into the Thai government’s response to the worsening economy and the good and bad moves they have made, from efforts to reduce interest rates on loans to attempts to boost domestic tourism. Jessica gives good marks to the Thai government for doing what they can, but jeez...it’s a nearly impossible situation.  Last, Greg presents questions from our listeners for Jessica, from issues relating to the Thai central bank to comparisons between the current crisis and the 1997 ‘Tom Yum Goong’ economic calamity.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E47 · Tue, September 08, 2020

Ten Laws Expats Should Understand in Thailand

After a brief intro explaining the podcast’s decision to accept advertising (within strict guidelines), Greg and Ed jump into a topic important to anyone travelling to Thailand: What are the most important Thai laws to know? Ed gives a quick lawyerly disclaimer: don’t rely on this podcast to make important decisions, but instead just use it as a guideline to do your own research and talk to a real lawyer. :) Next, Greg and Ed bring up ‘the enforcement problem’: as regular podcast listeners well know, many Thai laws are not frequently enforced or enforced haphazardly. On this show, however, we focus on laws that are usually or maybe even always enforced. In other words, knowing them has actual practical value during your stay in Thailand. In total, the guys go through ten categories of laws, ranging from the obvious but important, such as not criticizing the monarchy, to lesser known but equally valuable, such as the high fines for littering that have ruined many a visitor’s day, or what the increasing number of drone operators should know before whipping out their, uh, gear. Suffice it to say, there’s a lot more good info on the show, so listen in and up your Thai legal knowledge.  Don’t forget that Patrons get the ad-free version of the show as well as swag and other perks. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E46 · Tue, September 01, 2020

Jarrett Wrisley & Chalee Kader Discuss Bangkok's Restaurant Biz in the Time of Covid

Greg interviews Jarrett Wrisley and Chalee Kader, well-known and successful restaurateurs in Bangkok. After quick bios, they begin by dispelling some myths about the restaurant business and explaining some of the harsh realities of competing in a big city such as Bangkok. Even during good times, it’s a tough business, but during the COVID era it is nearly impossible. Greg and the guys discuss strategies for surviving and how to bring customers back when things improve. There are also some great stories about genuine Wagyu beef cattle in Isaan (true story) and sourcing Nordic-bound rice from ex-communist farmers. Greg then asks about the changing tastes of Thai people, and the two experts discuss at length the nuances of the expanding Thai palette.  Last, the guys try their best to explain all the ‘ingredients’ that go into a successful restaurant experience, and although it would be great if it was always about the food, in fact many variables are at play. Our guests are two of the not-very-many business people who have figured them all out in Bangkok.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E45 · Tue, August 25, 2020

Bangkok’s Seven Deadly Sins: Lust

Greg and Ed continue their ‘Seven Deadly Sins’ series with LUST - yep, we go there. Well, figuratively, anyway. On the record, the guys don’t actually recommend that you visit any of the red light districts in Bangkok - there are so many more interesting things to do in the city that aren’t as...potentially icky. But let’s be honest - they remain a huge draw, and if you live here long enough, you’ll eventually end up at one of them.  Topics include where to go, how to behave, what to do, what not to do, and in general, what to watch out for while still having a good time. Whether you are an actual fan of these ‘adult’ districts, just curious, or a long-term expat who might agree or disagree with our take, have a listen so you can avoid the ‘noob’ mistakes that Greg and Ed may have, hypothetically, made. (OK, we did.) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E44 · Tue, August 18, 2020

Crossing Cultures: From Small-Town Thailand to the USA & Back Again

Ed interviews Putsawan ‘Poy’ Tipsakorn, a friend and former student of his who did an exchange year in the U.S. while in high school. Ed and Poy begin with her background in a small town in Nakhorn Ratchasima province and her conservative all-girls school and how she got the idea to go to the States in the first place.  From there the story moves to upstate New York, where she met her host family and dove right in, making friends in marching band and choir. The academic transition was more difficult, and she had to quickly improve her English and adapt to American customs. Listen in for some classic funny ‘clash of cultures’ stories. Thankfully, Poy thrived in the US, but eventually had to head back home. Classic reverse-culture shock followed, as she had to work to fit back into her own culture. She and Ed discuss what happened upon her return, and her decision to study in an international program for university in Bangkok, which is where she learned even more details about her second home from Ajarn Ed. Follow Poy on Instagram here! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E43 · Tue, August 11, 2020

Holding a Mirror Up to Thailand: Thisrupt's Voranai Vanijaka

This week Greg interviews Khun Voranai Vanijaka, a well-known Thai journalist, social commentator, and founder and editor-in-chief of Thisrupt.co , an English language website and social media enterprise that focuses on social and political issues in Thailand. Khun Voranai explains his unique background as a Thai man who grew up in Austin, TX, and also that Thisrupt is currently self-funded by him, but that he is negotiating with investors. He and Greg next elucidate Thisrupt’s vision: politics, society, and economics are really all just aspects of culture, and Thisrupt’s goal is to focus on all facets of ‘Thainess.’ After Greg asks about the site’s edgy content, Voranai contends that it is a journalist’s duty to ‘push the envelope’ and not simply be PR for the government. He explains that a society cannot improve without first being able to speak and generate dialogue on a topic, and he insists that he will not be cowed in bringing up sensitive issues. They also discuss Thailand’s changing younger generation and the impact of new technology and social media on Thai society. As Voranai states, he doesn’t like Thailand’s past or present, but he’s looking forward to its future.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E42 · Tue, August 04, 2020

A Quarantine Interview & Media Recommendations

After a very strange intro in which Greg extols the virtues of a mind-numbingly happy Finnish folk tune , we get into the main episode, which comes in two parts. First, Greg interviews his friend Yining, who is just finishing a two week quarantine after returning to Thailand from Singapore. She explains the quarantine process in Bangkok, her COVID test (which came back negative, as expected), her hotel accommodations arranged by the Thai government (but that she had to pay for), and how she’s amused herself over the nearly two weeks spent alone. In short, it was no party, but Yining has gotten through it OK. In the second half, Greg and Ed give advice to anyone in Yining’s situation (or actually anyone stuck at home during a lockdown), who is looking for recommendations for a book to read or a movie, documentary or series to watch. From Vikings to video games to the skinny on Buddhism, the guys’ recommendations are shockingly insightful and arguably life-changing to anyone who follows up on them. We may be biased. Listen to the show to find out exactly what they all are. :) We also do a special Patron shoutout to our buddy Nicholas, and announce that we’ve donated $100 to a school he used to teach at, the Karenni Social Development Center in Mae Hong Son province . Can you join us in showing this great organization some love? As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E41 · Tue, July 28, 2020

Building a House in Thailand

Greg and Ed interview Florian, an old friend of Greg’s and coincidentally the occupant of Greg’s old apartment in Chinatown with a beautiful view of the Chao Phraya River.   Florian is a man of many talents, but this interview focuses on his multi-year project to build a modern house in the jungles of Mae Hong Son province, in northwestern Thailand.    Many expats dream of building a house in Thailand, but Florian has actually done it, and not just any old house either. His house is essentially in the middle of the jungle, off of both the water and power grids. Solution: solar power! Florian explains the entire process from conception to research to designing the building, with many pitfalls and close calls along the way. Although considerable sweat and tears have gone into the project, you’ll be surprised at the relatively modest cost of such a unique house. If you really want to follow along at home, Florian even kept a blog of the entire process , with plenty of photos. And since you’re a patron, we’ll include a few photos of the completed house below. To top it off, Florian is making his house available on AirBnB, so you can even check it out yourself! Unfortunately, due to COVID, flights and rental in Mae Hong Son are a bit unpredictable, but if you want more info, send us an email and we’ll put you in touch with Florian. But when the situation improves, consider a jungle adventure in Thailand for your next holiday - be it from overseas or just from Bangkok. On Love Loathe or Live With, Ed tests Greg with a question about receipts, which makes him pine for this great bit by the late, great Mitch Hedburg . As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E40 · Tue, July 21, 2020

Bangkok's Seven Deadly Sins: Pride

In a new series cooked up by Greg’s evil brain, the guys explore Bangkok through the prism of the Seven Deadly Sins. Each of the seven shows (not in a row, thankfully) will see the guys pick one of the sins and discuss how it relates to their own experience in Bangkok.  Starting with the Sin of Pride, Greg and Ed each come up with a few things that make them proud to call Bangkok home. From history and architecture to musical talent and one very specific bit of food, Greg and Ed discuss the little things that they never forget to show off to Bangkok n00bs - things that make them say, “You’re goddamn right Bangkok rules, and this is why!” As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E39 · Tue, July 14, 2020

Entrepreneur and TV Host Dan Fraser on Filming, Language, and Absorbing Thai Culture

This is Part 2 of Greg’s interview with Dan Fraser, an old friend, Thai TV star, and owner of adventure travel company Smiling Albino. Continuing their conversation, Dan talks about the challenges of transitioning from a business manager ‘control freak’ (his words) to a TV entertainer whose role is mostly to be the goofy foreigner having crazy experiences in Thailand. The key is finding his inner child and having faith in his producer to watch his back and make the kind of show that the producer wants. Although it might not always work out how he wants it to... From cultural mishaps to running to catch planes to eating a wild variety of food - from ‘orgasmically delicious’ (his words) to ‘vile and violent’ (also his words). An example of the latter would be lightly steamed ‘gooey swamp toads.’ Suffice it to say that someone picky about what they eat could never do Dan’s job on the show! Last, Greg asks Dan about any lessons he has learned about Thai culture being on the show, and, with a laugh, Dan points out that being on the show taught him that he really knew very little about the real Thailand, even though the show began after he had already been an expat for 10 years. It’s a great lesson for foreigners in Thailand: almost all of us know far less about the country we call home than we think. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E38 · Tue, July 07, 2020

Entrepreneur and TV Host Dan Fraser on Filming, Language, and Absorbing Thai Culture

Greg interviews Renaissance-Expat Extraordinaire Dan Fraser, an old friend of both Greg and Ed and a former guest of the podcast in season 1. As both the star of a Thai TV show called ‘ Long Ruk Yim ’ and the owner of Smiling Albino , a high-end adventure travel company, Dan is afforded some really unique opportunities for understanding Thai culture, and seeing things from the inside. Among the topics discussed in this episode - part 1 of a two-part show - Dan discusses the difficulties involved in filming a television show where he must explain his adventures in Thailand, in Thai to a Thai audience, and the logistics of putting a weekly show together while running a mid-size company with a few dozen staff. He also goes into detail on some of the incredibly awkward situations that he often finds himself in while filming, and how he uses them as tools to better understand Thai culture. Suffice it to say, if Greg and Ed have had ‘interesting’ lives in Thailand, Dan has had something that’s hyper-super-mega interesting. Approximately.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E37 · Tue, June 30, 2020

The Gun Show: How a Few Thai Cannons Helped Shape History

We return to our Thai history series with a fascinating look at the role that several Thai cannons played in some important historical events.  First, with the help of a cool blog on Thai history from our friend Ken Lohatepanont , Greg tells the story of some silver cannons gifted by King Narai of Siam to Louis XIV of France. It turns out that during the world-changing storming of the Bastille in 1789, those very same cannons were used by the revolutionaries to bring down the notorious prison. Who would have thought that Thai military equipment would play such a key role in world history? Next, Greg tells the story of two large cannons, known as Seri Negara and Seri Pattani, used by the southern Sultanate of Pattani. When Pattani eventually challenged Siam and lost, the Thai King seized the cannons as spoils of war. Alas, one ended up at the bottom of the sea, but the other is on display in front of the Thai Ministry of Defense to this day. Last, Greg relates the use of cannons by the famous Thai developer Nai Lert to mark the boundaries of his property that borders Sukhumvit and Wireless Road. The concrete remains can still be seen today outside of Central Embassy shopping mall.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E36 · Tue, June 23, 2020

Jobs, Wages and Napoleon Dynamite: The Hard Data on Thailand’s Economy

It’s an extra-long show this week as Greg interviews Jessica Vechbanyongratana , a professor at the faculty of Economics at Chulalongkorn University, about the numbers that make up Thailand’s economy.  Beginning with Thailand’s notable jump up the list of countries with the biggest inequality gap, Jessica explains the methodologies and data that led to the change - although as she mentions, depending on what data you look at during what year, Thailand may not necessarily be any more unequal than a country like the United States. Next, they tackle the question of the minimum wage and the average monthly income of residents of Bangkok vs other areas of Thailand, with Greg drawing an interesting analogy between that and Napoleon Dynamite (you see, Bangkok - like Napoleon Dynamite - tends to throw a bomb into many predictive models). The two also cover how teaching is considered a really good job in Thailand, how Jessica’s students are usually overly optimistic about the wages they’ll earn upon graduation, and finish with an addendum - recorded just the other night - on the devastating effect the Coronavirus is having on Thailand. And don’t miss our patron Thomas’ sweet DJ sets on Twitch ! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E35 · Tue, June 16, 2020

How Thailand Changed Our Views on Fake Stuff

Inspired by a great post on a Thisrupt , the topic is counterfeit goods. Most people are aware that all types of counterfeit goods are available for sale in Thailand, whether it is watches, handbags, DVDs, or software.  Greg and Ed trade stories about how Thailand allowed them to embrace counterfeit culture in their early days of living in Thailand, simply because it was so cheap, so readily available, and ‘everybody was doing it.’ The boys talk over some reasons why pirated goods are more common in Asia, and Greg recounts visiting the Museum of Counterfeit Goods at a prominent Bangkok law firm. But as technology advanced, markets matured, and Greg and Ed got older, they both now see the value in (most) intellectual property, and happily pay more for the real deal. Thailand seems to be heading in the right direction at least.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E34 · Tue, June 09, 2020

The Thai Foreign Ministry & Public Communication During COVID-19

Greg interviews Khun Natapanu Nopakun, the Deputy Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs . You’ve probably seen him on TV - he’s the guy who gives English language updates of what’s going on with the Thai government, and especially the coronavirus situation.  Khun Natapanu begins by explaining exactly what his job is - giving info on foreign affairs to both foreigners and Thais in English. Interestingly, his job is not just to interpret or translate the normal Thai public affairs information into English, but to select and in some cases add information that is more relevant to foreigners. In short, Khun Natapanu crafts Thai government news to better fit a foreign audience. Simply put, there’s stuff foreigners need to know that Thais don’t, and vice versa.  While we’ve long held the belief that expats in Thailand really SHOULD speak Thai, we really appreciate any English language info we can get, so it’s good news that Khun Natapanu explains that this is actually very much on the roadmap of the Thai government - not just for expats in Thailand but also for the global community in general.  We also get some insight into how the MFA and other government agencies are structured, the daily schedule Khun Natapanu and his team must stick to, and even if he’s ever had any pressure to alter or censor his briefings (spoiler alert: nope). Learn more about Covid in Thailand on Thai PBS , or watch Khun Natapanu’s briefings on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday on the MFA Facebook page .  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E33 · Tue, June 02, 2020

Lockdown: A Few Small Upsides to a BIG Downside

When you are a kid, you are taught to look on the bright side of everything. In that spirit, Greg and Ed search for any possible positives in their lives as a result of the lockdown (which, generally speaking, SUCKS). Ed begins by noting that his relative lack of social life has given him more freedom to experiment with his diet, which consequently resulted in him losing 5 kilos. Greg notes that the increased time home has meant more bonding with his son and many priceless moments that otherwise might not have happened during more normal times. Next, Ed notes the rather mundane but still meaningful fact that while staying home, he simply spends less money. At the end of the month, there’s actually money left in his account! You can’t argue with that. Greg then brings up the convenience of finally being able to fix troublesome aspects of his condo, those little niggly things that bother you for years cause you are too busy to focus on them. Well, thanks to the lockdown, he can tamp down that annoying nail that sticks up from the floorboard! Last, Ed appreciates the new restaurants and food he has discovered while searching for food to order for delivery. With most restaurants closed to walk-in customers for most of the last two months and an unfinished kitchen, delivery has been a godsend. For Greg, his extra time hanging out in his condo has allowed him to meet and get to know more of his neighbors. Little did he know, there’s actually a cool community of peeps that’s been right under his nose this whole time. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E32 · Tue, May 26, 2020

Up Close & Personal With Thai Culture: The National Museum Volunteers

You know how foreigners aren’t allowed to be tour guides in Thailand? Well guess what - there’s an interesting little loophole to that, and it’s a great opportunity to get to know Thai culture in a very real way. Greg interviews Dr. Peter Hufschmid-Hirschbuehl (hereinafter referred to as ‘Dr. Peter’ for obvious reasons), the President of the National Museum Volunteers , the only museum that allows foreigners to train and work as tour guides. The training program provides a quite extensive background in Thai culture, and many go through the program just for the education. Once finished, graduates lead tours in English, German, Japanese and French.  Dr. Peter goes into detail on the National Museum, highlighting both its positives and negatives, and relates insights into its collection and what it says about the Thai culture, and the artistic and creative things that it’s produced over the millenia.  Dr. Peter then explains the training program, which involves quite a few hours of work, and has a nuanced focus depending on where the tour groups are coming from (for  example, the French have a very different history in Southeast Asia than the British or the Germans or the Japanese).  All in all, the National Museum should be on the itinerary of any tourist to Thailand, and the guide program should be on the list of any expat with an interest in Thai culture.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E31 · Tue, May 19, 2020

Big Brother Says Hi: Do You Have More or Less Privacy in Thailand Than at Home?

Greg and Ed tackle the complex question of privacy in Thailand, especially as it compares to privacy back home. But there are lots of types of privacy, so what do we mean? Firstly, as an expat, you live in a kind of bubble of privacy anyway - often left alone and largely cut off from the Thai-language media, which only increases the sense of privacy. Second, Thai culture is famously indirect, with Thais tending to be less confrontational about a person’s private life, so from a social and cultural perspective, you might say there is more privacy here. BUT! But...Ed contends that, from a legal perspective, there is overall less privacy in Thailand. Does it balance out? Greg - a noted non-lawyer - agrees to some extent, but says that while Thais may be indirect, they also love to gossip (just ask his neighbors). All of this on top of the fact that the Thai gov’t can pretty much access whatever it wants and has used the pandemic to increase the stickiness of its fingers, means Greg thinks that we all need to be careful about what, when, and to whom we say anything. Listen in as we go into detail on all of the above. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E30 · Tue, May 12, 2020

Pain, Disease & Illness: The (Thai) Language of Medicine with Stu Jay Raj

The topic is a bit morbid but these are strange times - Greg interviews polyglot and podcast favorite Stu Jay Raj on the roots of the Thai language as they pertain to pain and medicine. They begin trading stories over the fiendishly tricky (for Westerners anyway) pronunciation of the Thai language, and the often hilarious (and obscene) mistakes that can happen, with Stu explaining that (roughly) Sanskrit and Pali are to Thai what Latin and Greek are to English. Stu explains most formal Thai words, especially scientific and academic ones, come from Sanskrit and Pali.  This segways into a discussion of how to interact with medical personnel in Thailand, and all the different Thai words for discussing pain and sickness. Stu emphasizes that Thai words can have double meanings, being positive in one context but negative in another, which turns into a discussion on the Thai words for excrement (really!), which are kind of important to get right, if you think about it. :) Last, Stu gets into the physical differences of pronouncing various sounds to explain Thais’ difficulty in saying various English words. It turns out that pain works in both directions!  Don’t forget to check out Stu’s excellent book Cracking Thai Fundamentals ! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E29 · Tue, May 05, 2020

Thailand’s Booze Ban: Good Strategy or Pointless Folly?

Greg and Ed recorded a show that goes in-depth on Thailand’s alcohol ban and whether or not it makes sense as a way to combat the coronavirus. What they did NOT count on was the ban being lifted 3 days AFTER they recorded the show! No worry - it’s still a very relevant discussion.  First up, the boys try to give the ban the best spin possible - does it really help reduce irresponsible partying - social gatherings in large groups where people are not wearing masks or social distancing? Next they discuss a WHO report in Europe that supported alcohol bans on the grounds that alcohol causes multiple diseases that increase the lethality of the virus. Finally, the guys consider another side-effect of the ban - with many people stuck at home, women with abusive spouses may suffer increased attacks with alcohol easily available. The boys weigh each argument, accepting that each point must be true at least to some extent. But for each of them, multiple holes appear. Why can’t alcohol sales continue but no drinking in bars or big groups? Doesn’t it take time for alcohol to cause disease (or for not drinking to cure it)? And can’t the absence of alcohol enrage domestic abusers even more? There are not one-size-fits-all solutions here. Greg also notes an excellent email from a reader on the logic of sympathy for the hundreds of thousands of people in Thailand who are dependent on alcohol to function properly. And last, Ed notes that the massive impact to small and medium businesses in Thailand might not be worth it in the long run.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E28 · Tue, April 28, 2020

Author Phil Jablon on the Disappearing Legacy of Thai Cinemas

Greg interviews Phil Jablon, a true connoisseur of Southeast Asia’s old movie theaters and author of the fantastic book Thailand’s Movie Theaters: Relics, Ruins, and the Romance of Escape . As noted on the show, you can order from the Amazon link above, but if you would like a free vintage movie theater ticket as well, reach out to Phil on his Facebook page and order his book there. Phil grew up a movie lover but developed an interest in older, stand-alone movie theaters as they began to fade away in the States. In 2008, he started a blog where he documented old movie theaters he found on his travels in Thailand, and eventually, all of Southeast Asia. Phil discusses his research methodology, which basically consists of showing up in small towns across the country and asking people about the history of theaters there. Phil notes that something as specific as the history of movie theaters in a small town actually reveals quite a lot about how Thailand has changed over the years, both economically and culturally. Greg draws a parallel between the role temples play in local Thai communities, and Phil concurs that theaters, at least in the past, were meeting places for all kinds of events in small Thai towns.  Greg and Phil also discuss their mutual appreciation for Thai movie posters, which were often hand-drawn by local Thai artists because foreign productions rarely produced marketing materials for the Thai market. And naturally, Phil’s book includes plenty of photos of Thai posters for classic Western films.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E27 · Tue, April 21, 2020

We Discuss: Myths and Misconceptions About Bangkok

This week is a dose of keeping it real: What are some common beliefs about Thailand that Greg and Ed just don’t buy? Ed starts off with a fairly nuanced point: many people think of Thailand as a very religious country because of so many outward signs of Buddhist culture, whether it’s temples, monks, or statues that Thais are very respectful of. However, Ed argues that in general Thais are not very pious: alcohol consumption, gambling, and infidelity are quite common throughout Thailand. Greg walks equally risky territory by claiming that although Thais definitely smile a lot, the moniker ‘Land of Smiles’ has succeeded too much in that it has convinced many foreigners that all Thai people have nothing but hearts of gold. Unfortunately, scammers, as well as straight-up thieves, regularly target foreigners, and it is best to be as wary in Thailand as you would be in any country around the world. Ed next contends that those who view Thailand (and more specifically the city of Pattaya) as sleazy places in general are very mistaken. Although prostitution does exist throughout Thailand, most of it is in isolated areas and not apparent in day to day life. Although Ed and Greg don’t see eye to eye on Pattaya, Greg concurs that most of Bangkok and Thailand are very family-friendly. Last, Greg refutes those who think of Bangkok as a dirty, third-world city. Considering the unorganized, chaotic mess that Bangkok is, it’s surprisingly clean, with garbage showing up only temporarily before being swept away by the city’s ubiquitous street cleaners. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E26 · Tue, April 14, 2020

Pious Isolation? The Day-to-Day Life of a Thai Monk

First of all, a public service announcement: Our friend Adam is coordinating a project to get soap, disinfectant, and food to some of Bangkok’s poorest communities. Just 300 THB provides supplies for a family of 4. We donated 2,000THB - can you match or or beat us? Head here for more info. As everyone is now dealing with isolation and minimalist living in a way they never had to before, Greg interviews our returning-est guest Phra Pandit on the day to day life of a monk. From Phra Pandit’s austere lodgings - a bare 3m by 4m room, including little more than a few appliances, books, and a sleeping mat - Phra Pandit reminisces about his early days after ordination, when his only link to the Western world was BBC World which he had to delicately find on a shortwave radio.  Eventually he found his way into a Thai university for monks where he studied psychology (in Thai) as an undergraduate. That followed with a long stint as a Master’s student, largely to maintain an education visa. Phra Pandit reveals that although there’s a separate process for foreign monks, they largely have to deal with as much bureaucracy to get visas as other foreigners do. Just because you wear the robes does not mean you get special treatment from the government. Greg and the Venerable Pandit also discuss a monk’s social life and even the rivalries and cliques that form in a temple, the eventual goal of a person who joins the monkhood, the rules (and un-rules) that monks are expected to follow - and what happens when a monk wants out. Phra Pandit finishes with some examples of those who left the monkhood, thinking they wanted a ‘normal’ life with a wife and family, only to hit ‘ctrl-z’ and become a monk again! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E25 · Wed, April 08, 2020

Lockdown! How Does This One Compare to Others?

In their continuing effort to find something to talk about besides coronavirus, Greg and Ed decide to compare the current crisis to the past crises that they have lived through in their combined 38 years in Thailand. This is their first pandemic but they have survived coups, floods, assassinations, curfews, and violent protests that have shut down huge parts of the city. So how does today compare? Well, first Ed notes that the oddest thing about the 2006 coup - the first for both Greg and Ed - was how un-tense and untroubling it seemed throughout the city. Greg agrees that the weirdest thing about it was trying to figure out how unbothered Thai people seemed to be about it. However, the countless protests that occurred between the two coups (2006 and 2014) were a different story. The guys trade stories about the unsettling nature of large mobs that at one moment can seem tranquil and in another menacing, whether it be just a sense of impending danger or an actual gunfight. The boys also reminisce about their many flood experiences, from ‘the big one’ in 2011 and 2012 that led to Greg postponing his wedding to the many smaller ones that required Ed to wade down his soi to make it to his office for work.  Of course, none of those events is exactly like the present crisis and the boys wrap up with a discussion of what makes the current lockdown unique. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E24 · Tue, March 31, 2020

WHO’s Dr. Daniel Kertesz Talks COVID-19, Pandemics & Silver Linings

Greg interviews Dr. Daniel Kertesz of the World Health Organization, to confirm, deny, or simply explain in better detail some of the information that’s going around about the COVID-19 pandemic. It certainly is a strange time we’re living in. Beginning with questions about herd immunity and information gathering, Daniel explains that above all, we must be humble given the lack of information we have about this particular virus. This is not surprising, considering that the world barely knew anything about it only a few months ago, but still...we are incredibly well positioned to adapt and overcome.  Daniel notes that a huge number of minds are focused on the problem around the world, and that disease researchers are much more connected than they were in the past. This new medical landscape allows data to travel faster and hopefully will lead to a vaccine. The big question, of course, is how long this will take...and at what cost.  Next, the guys discuss Daniel’s two decades with WHO in Africa, the extent to which that continent is ready for coronavirus, and what lessons Daniel took from his time there that he and his time can apply in Thailand. The big question is - is Thailand on the right path to stamping this thing out? Daniel opines on the country’s preparedness plan and gives them an overall passing grade, but notes - most importantly - that we are all still learning about this virus. There are models that predict all kinds of endings, but when the day is done, all we can do is listen, learn, and do what we think is best based on previous experience.  With that in mind - stay home, wash your hands, and do your part to ensure that we can all come out of this smarter and better prepared.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E23 · Tue, March 24, 2020

Mixed-Culture Relationship Advice from Dr. Greg

Taking a personal turn thanks to an idea from Wes, one of our patrons, Greg discusses his dating experiences in Thailand and what it’s like to be married to a Thai woman. From early dating stories as a clueless n00b to strange stories of getting used to Thai culture Greg (and Ed!) both start off with a few funny stories Next, Greg tells the story of meeting and eventually marrying his wife. Their story was a traditional one of a dinner with several groups of friends, a flirty Greg...and the rest is history as they say. Greg gives his thoughts on how we, as foreigners, must be flexible in everything from dating to having kids, to building relationships with the parents...luckily, Greg’s wife (and her family) are pretty open-minded and reasonable about his weird western ways.  Finally, the boys try to piece together some advice to help the next person looking for a serious relationship in Thailand, including being patient and open-minded, especially if you actually live in the country. The quick version: patience, flexibility, and quality over quantity! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E22 · Tue, March 17, 2020

How Tim Hortons Came to Thailand

Thailand’s food tastes have changed a lot since Greg and Ed first got here two decades ago, and in that time, things have gone international, yo! With this in mind, Greg interviews Nick Wattanavekin, who opened the first Tim Hortons, the iconic Canadian donut shop, in Thailand just a few short months ago. The journey from investment banker to restauranteur is a long one, but Nick explains how he transitioned from his early career to franchising restaurants in Thailand, discusses how much Bangkok has changed in the last twenty years, and what drives the increasingly cosmopolitan palette of Thai consumers. Nick then goes into detail explaining just how one brings a “famous overseas” but not “famous in Thailand” brand to Thailand, including consumer research, business plans, market strategies...and what happens when those famously long lines outside of hip new places go away. And of course - why Tim Hortons? If you’re Canadian, you get it, but if not...well, Nick’s done his research. The boys wrap up talking about some of the unique characteristics of the Thai market compared to other Tim Hortons locations around the world.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E21 · Tue, March 10, 2020

Mixed Messages: Thailand's Confusing PR Machine

The big news of the day is of course the coronavirus, something Greg and Ed have talked about frequently on the bonus show, which goes to our patrons. But on this show, though, the guys dive right in and address the Thai government’s bizarre and inconsistent public declarations about the virus and the government’s policy towards it.  Ed does his best to recount the government’s statements of the last few days: first, an apparent mandatory quarantine of all travelers from nine countries, followed by that statement disappearing and radio silence from the government. Then, a new statement indicating an ‘optional’ quarantine of travelers from fewer countries, followed by a new statement from TAT apparently discouraging tourists to travel to Thailand from high-risk countries. The boys lament the fact that bad PR by the Thai government would be laughable in some circumstances, but in the case of coronavirus it is potentially deadly. At the very least, hundreds of thousands of tourists - not to mention Thais in the hospitality and service industries - are affected by Thai governmental policies, so professionalism and clarity are of utmost importance. To wrap things up, Greg and Ed discuss various theories to explain the government’s strange ineptitude at communicating with the public. Greg introduces a theory that it could be be partly due to Thai cultural communication styles, while Ed considers a more mundane explanation: military-bureaucratic incompetence.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E20 · Tue, March 03, 2020

Media, Politics, Tech & Censorship with Cod Satrusayang

Greg interviews Cod Satrusayang, editor-in-chief of ThaiEnquirer.com, one of Thailand’s newest news sites. Cod explains that after a decade of experience in the foreign press in Thailand and abroad, he felt that Thailand’s English-language press had been somewhat diluted by corporate meddling and special interests. What the country needed was true independent media from a Thai perspective.  Greg and Cod discuss ‘woke’ culture and the similar role that comedians and journalists play when pushing boundaries regardless of the risks, in the same way that the leaders of the Future Forward Party, recently dissolved, have done by expressing no regrets about starting a party that challenged the Thai military. Greg and Cod also discuss the history of student involvement in politics in Thailand, from the original protests in 1973 through 1976 and later Black May in 1992. Cod argues that although students were less involved in the 1990s, they have become more involved since the coup of 2014 - something that we see happening in greater numbers as this episode goes to air. Last, the guys discuss some of the ways that the new generation of Thais think and act differently from their predecessors, especially when you take into account the role played by overseas travel and education, and the influence of the Internet and social media.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E19 · Tue, February 25, 2020

We Ask An Economist: Is Thailand a Poor Country?

People are often quick to call Thailand ‘developing’ or even ‘third world’ - but what do those terms even mean? We decided to find out.  Ed interviews Dan Honig, a professor of international development at Johns Hopkins University. After explaining Dan’s unique educational background and world travels, the guys dig into some basic questions about the Thai economy. Right off the bat, Dan notes that when compared to the entire world, it is not accurate to consider Thailand poor. Instead, it would probably be categorized as ‘upper middle income’. But that describes Thailand as a whole - what about other indices like inequality, development, or poverty? Dan discusses different ways of measuring these things and notes that Thailand has a very low poverty rate, with most Thais generally having access to health care and education. But the extreme gap between the one percent at the top in Thailand and everybody else impacts the political situation, and in Dan’s mind definitely is a problem.  Last, the guys riff on the oddness of having salaries that put them in the top one or two percent in the world, but at the same time feeling ‘disadvantaged’ in some way. In the end, it’s only traveling and seeing the way most people live that lead to really appreciating what you have. Something listeners of the Bangkok Podcast should know already. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E18 · Tue, February 18, 2020

The Big Bangkok Statistics Episode

You might be surprised to learn that two fellows as cool as Greg and Ed can be a bit nerdy, but it’s true! So, in keeping with that theme, this week your hosts jump into a potpourri of Bangkok statistics. Do you know how many sqkm Bangkok is? Or how big Thailand’s GDP is? Or how many airports or kilometers of rail track the kingdom has? In a wide-ranging discussion about the numbers that make up Bangkok (and Thailand), the boys cover geography, population density, population demographics, religion, the economy, minimum wage, education, transportation, telecommunications, and even electrical consumption! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E17 · Tue, February 11, 2020

Bangkok History Highlight: The Surprising History of Patpong

Greg and Ed interview Michael Messner, long time expat, Patpong bar entrepreneur, and the founder and curator of the Patpong Museum. Opened this year, the Patpong Museum is meant to educate the public on the entire history of the Patpong area, stretching from its earliest development more than 100 years ago until today - and there’s way more to it than just go-go bars! Michael exemplifies the ‘interesting expat,’ having first come to Thailand to expand his art business only to meet a Thai woman and begin to plant roots in Bangkok. Through a chance encounter he found a mentor close to the Patpong family, and this gave Michael the opportunity to enter the hectic world of Bangkok bar and restaurant ownership. Many years later and after much (eventual) success, he decided to open the Patpong Museum. Why does Bangkok’s most famous red light district deserve a museum? Well, you need to hear Michael tell the story but suffice it to say that the Patpong area has a long and fascinating history much before the modern era of the night market and go-go bars, involving family drama, CIA intrigue, and straight old-fashioned corporate commercialization. And in a nice twist, Michael offers listeners of the Bangkok Podcast a 20% discount on admission. Just mention BP when you arrive to cash in!  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E16 · Tue, February 04, 2020

Neighborhood (Re)Focus: Thonburi, Bangkok’s Brooklyn

In another Neighborhood Focus, the guys revisit an area discussed in Season 2: Thonburi, roughly defined as the ‘other side’ of the river from downtown Bangkok. ‘Revisit’ on the show that is, cause both Greg and Ed have lived in Thonburi for a while - we never left. :)  So why talk about it again? Well, a lot has changed on our side of Bangkok in the two years since we first covered it. The mega chic complex at Icon Siam has sparked a lot of development in the area properly known as Khlong San. The guys discuss their thoughts on Icon about a year after its opening and conclude that it seems to have improved considerably, with more food options and a greater community feel. It’s still ‘just a mall,’ but props to the developers for trying to do something different, and both Greg and Ed consider it worth a visit.  The boys then wander the neighborhood, noting the ramshackle homes practically touching the super expensive residences at Icon Siam before hitting a few notable bars and restaurants along the river, ending up at Klong San market and noshing on some great raisin bread. Greg ponders that the Khlong San area of Thonburi is poised to possibly become the Thong Lor of the other side of the river. Listen in for details and the names of places the guys recommend. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E15 · Tue, January 28, 2020

Discussing Thai-Farang Relationships - With an Uncommon Twist

Everybody knows that intercultural relationships in Thailand are most likely a Thai woman with a foreign man, but things are changing! It’s not as common, but there are plenty of farang women in relationships with Thai men - partnerships that carry their own unique set of challenges! Greg interviews Sam Ormond, an Australian and long-term Bangkokian who has been married to a Thai man for many years. Greg and Sam discuss stereotypes of Thai men that may tend to scare away western women, although Sam notes that while these stereotypes may be true of some Thai men (especially younger ones), there are plenty of fantastic Thai men out there.  Sam also shares several interesting anecdotes about her unusual life as a farang wife in Thailand, from filling out paperwork that doesn’t even have options for women, to the unique requirements of being married to a Thai man who (temporarily) enters the monkhood - and their “re-marriage” when he came back into civilian life! There’s also a discussion of Asian stereotypes in pop culture, and the fact that Greg really needs some Thai male friends! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E14 · Tue, January 21, 2020

Who Are You? Remaking Yourself as an Expat

Your hosts get a little deep with the topic this time by kicking off a discussion on expat identity. Can expats reinvent themselves and become someone new in their new country? Should they? Ed chimes in with some immediate support for people doing what they can to get out of a rut or ‘stretch their personalities,’ but also offers concerns about people acting superficial or fake. Greg clarifies that he’s not talking about lying or just making stuff up, but rather breaking free of old, bad habits and giving yourself a chance to try something new. Although good friends and the comfort of home certainly make life better, they also can sometimes be constraining, especially after a long time in the same place.  The guys discuss a magazine article on the advantages of expatdom when it comes to improving yourself and creating a new ‘you,’ largely agreeing with the article’s optimistic view of expat life - at least if you are someone who WANTS to change things up. The boys also note that sexual identity is often one of those things difficult to experiment with around family and old friends, and a new country is often the ticket to explore new experiences. And what better place to do that than Bangkok? No surprise that the guys think being an expat is a great way to find the real ‘you’ that’s just been dying to come out. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E13 · Tue, January 14, 2020

Expat Insights: Tony Joh Talks Travel, Fitting In…and Moving Back to Asia?

Greg interviews Tony Joh, an old friend and co-host of Season 1 of the Bangkok Podcast to reminisce about their true noob status as pioneer podcasters and re-living their early successes (and screw-ups).  Tony then explains his move to Japan and how he liked his job (at first) due to his ability to work from home (and avoid Japanese corporate culture). Lo and behold his small company was bought by a big corporation, and Tony was required to work in the office, significantly decreasing his job satisfaction. Tony and Greg trade stories about working for Asian companies (which Greg has done in the past), and compare and contrast Japanese and Thai culture.  The last stage of Tony’s journey was to move back to Canada, where he has been for the last year and a half. Tony recounts his re-adjustment to his home country, and ironically talks about how weird it is to have everything work well and being ‘normal.’ This leads to his possible interest in heading back to Asia for more adventures, because, let’s be honest, Asia’s where it’s at. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E12 · Tue, January 07, 2020

Five Observations on What Makes Thai Culture Thai

In a first for the podcast, the boys decide to review a part of the Bangkok Podcast website - the relatively new for Season 4 ‘Resources’ section. A few weeks back we posted a page called ‘ Some Thoughts on Thai Culture ,’ and it elicited some responses from friends of the podcast, so we decided to dig into it. We don’t want to rehash what’s already there, so if you haven’t read it yet, mosey on over and check it out. In brief, the page lists 5 key characteristics of Thai culture: 1) Respect for authority; 2) Being indirect; 3) High context; 4) Fitting in; and 5) No problems. Greg and Ed discuss each, trying to find exceptions and bring some nuance to the characteristics.  At the end, Ed brings up an ‘honorable mention’: an important characteristic that didn’t quite make the top five: Thais also are particularly concerned about appearing proper in public, but in private are no more conservative than most Westerners.  Of course, these are just our opinions and observations - we’d love to hear thoughts, feedback, or dissenting opinions. Listen in for the details! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E11 · Tue, December 31, 2019

The Rules & History of Giving (and Receiving) Alms

It’s been a long time since we sat down with our most returningest guest ever, so we’re psyched to chat with Phra Pandit for our first show of 2020.  We’ve all seen monks going on their daily alms rounds, walking slowly and stoically as laypeople put food and other items in their บาตร, or alms bowl. But how many of you know the history of giving alms? Phra Pandit gets into the details of the practice and answers a few questions - why only go in the morning? Why do monks look so sombre when they do it? Can you refuse an offering? And what types of items in their bowl makes a monk light up with an (inner) smile?  Phra Pandit also gives us his impressions of how the desire for ‘the perfect alms photo/video’ can sometimes corrupt the purity of the process ( watch the video he mentions here ), and tells a story that is, as Greg puts it, “the most metal story about Buddhsim ever.” As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E10 · Wed, December 25, 2019

The Cost of Living in Bangkok 2020

A new annual tradition begins with a discussion of the cost of living in Bangkok. Greg cites a recent study that puts Bangkok as the 47th most expensive city in the world for expats to live, which might not seem so bad except Bangkok has moved up 43 places (!) from last year.  Ed notes that while things do seem to be getting more expensive, the cost of living is notoriously difficult to measure because it really depends on the specific good or services that you measure. Greg concurs, noting for example that in the recent study, the cost of international school was NOT included, which could potentially even move Bangkok higher.  Ed also points out that Bangkok is a weird city that seems to cater to people at almost every income level, such that the average cost may not be super cheap, but that does not mean that super cheap options are not available.  But what about gas, food, rent, milk, a car, and buying a McDonald’s meal? Greg compares the prices in Bangkok with the same thing in his home town of Calgary. The boys conclude by reminding listeners that it’s only in places like the Bangkok Podcast that you can receive the ‘wisdom of the Bangkok elders’ and find out how to do the City of Angels on the cheap.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E9 · Tue, December 17, 2019

Sai & Luther: What’s it Like Being Blind in Bangkok?

In our ongoing series about living in Bangkok with a disability, Greg interviews Sai Techawongtham, a Thai citizen who is blind, and who has something very rare in Thailand - a guide dog (his name is Luther and he’s a very good boy). Sai has recently received a lot of social media attention due to the fact that many Thai people are unaware of the purpose of guide dogs and often fail to accommodate their use. Sai discusses the difficulty of being blind in Thailand, and compares Bangkok to the U.S., where she goes to university. As Sai notes, exposure and awareness are slowly changing minds in Thailand, but many businesses in Bangkok still will not allow dogs to enter, even though guide dogs are allowed by law. But all the laws in the world won’t do much good if no one knows about them. Sai says that while it might be normal to blame the government for lack of accessibility for the disabled, there’s still a lot that private citizens can do to make their places of businesses easier to negotiate for the blind or people in wheelchairs.  And don’t forget to check out Sai’s Facebook page , which has frequent posts in Thai and English about life as a blind person in Bangkok.    As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E8 · Tue, December 10, 2019

Bangkok History Highlight: The Samut Prakan Radiation Incident

Greg tells the true story of the ‘Samut Prakan Radiation Incident,’ which happened in Thailand in 2000. A piece of medical equipment that contained the highly radioactive isotope Cobalt 60 was improperly disposed of, and after a series of transactions ended up in the hands of everyday trash collectors. Unaware of its true nature, the men cut open the container with an acetylene torch, unwittingly releasing deadly radiation into the atmosphere.  Those involved soon started showing up at local clinics with strange burns and other mysterious symptoms. Thankfully, the doctors were on the ball, and soon realized they had a full-blown nuclear incident on their hands. After alerting authorities, the Thai Government office in charge of atomic safety jumped into high gear to stop things from going from bad to way, way worse. Greg and Ed dig into the significance of the incident and how it resulted in improved regulations, agreeing that even though lives were lost, Bangkok was very lucky to avoid a much broader tragedy.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E7 · Tue, December 03, 2019

Agoda CEO John Brown on Corporate Culture in Bangkok

We’re happy to welcome to the show John Brown, the CEO of Agoda, one of the world’s largest online accommodation platforms. Headquartered in Singapore but with a large support office in Thailand, John explains how the company began and how it’s grown.  Greg and John also discuss what difficulties arise when trying to hire top-tier talent from around the world to come and work in Bangkok, a city not known as a hub of high-tech companies. How do they prove that the move is worth it, and what type of sales pitch on Bangkok do new staff get?  John also discusses how Bangkok’s vibrant local culture affects the culture of an office made up of many different nationalities, as well as the obvious question - what does Agoda do when things in Bangkok’s boisterous political arena go a bit sideways? How does this negative news affect tourism in Thailand, and what measures can companies like Agoda take to compensate?  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E6 · Tue, November 26, 2019

Did That Just Happen? A Few Stories from Bangkok

In a lighter episode after a few weeks of serious guests and topics, Greg and Ed trade ‘hard to believe that happened’ stories about living in Thailand. Ed begins with a call of nature nightmare that required an impromptu stop at Lumpini Police Station that ended with a terrified woman and a very relieved Ed in the female toilet. Greg follows with a cultural ‘no-no’ in one of the least expected places - a go-go bar - where he innocently used his foot to get the attention of one of the girls. After sitting in silence while the woman mercilessly tore strips off of him for what seemed like an eternity, Greg used the experience as a lesson for the tourists he was shepherding through the red light district. Ed next recounts an utterly bizarre experience that occurred when the Thai government had to verify his marriage during his residency application process. Two government officers came to Ed’s house on the weekend and interviewed him and his wife, which ended up with the couple posing in their bedroom for the overly-demanding officers. Thankfully, they remained fully clothed. Yes, that really happened. Not to be outdone, Greg concludes with a hilarious story of an audition for a commercial, only to be asked to wrestle bare chested with a strange guy while someone filmed and yelled out instructions. Numerous strange contortions were followed by an impromptu Thai lesson for good measure. And to top it off, he didn’t even get the gig! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E5 · Tue, November 19, 2019

Director Tom Waller on The Cave, Thai Film & Telling Stories

Director/producer Tom Waller has made a lot of films, but his latest movie might be his most important yet. The Cave tells the story of the rescue of the Wild Boars football team from a flooded cave in northern Thailand.  On a special extended show, Greg and Ed are happy to have Tom on the show, as well as two special guests, diver/actor Jim Warny, who helped rescue the boys and starred as himself in the film, and composer Olivier Lliboutry! Tom tells us how he walked the line when writing the script of telling a compelling story without being exploitative, filling his movie with non-actors, as well as his race against the clock to get something to market when others were working hard on their own projects about the same story. Tom also talks about the film industry in Thailand, and how projects like The Cave can serve as ambassadors of sorts for Thailand around the world. We’re also delighted to talk to Jim about his experience bringing the story to life, what is was like to go from regular dude to high-profile actor overnight, and whether he now considers himself a diver/actor, or actor/diver. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E4 · Tue, November 12, 2019

Are Expats Ambassadors for All Expats?

A bit of news first - the Bangkok Podcast has LINE stickers! Go here to check them out and increase your expressiveness. Sadly, Thai-based users only. On this show, Greg introduces a fascinating question for expats: to what extent should they see themselves as ‘ambassadors’ who represent the country they come from - or indeed, expats in general? Ed opens a bit contrarian, arguing that expats only have a duty to obey the law and not act like jerks, the same as if they were at home. Greg counters that while that sounds good in theory, in fact locals will blame expats’ countries and cultures for expats’ individual misbehavior. This leads to a fascinating (if we do say so ourselves) back and forth from two long term expats on exactly what duty should guide expats while overseas. They boys also discuss a related but slightly different issue: to what extent should expats ‘do as the Thais do’? Do we have a duty to assimilate and ‘act Thai’? Your hosts discuss the minimum (taking shoes off, bowing, etc.) but also possible limits on how ‘Thai’ foreigners should be in the Land of Smiles.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E3 · Tue, November 05, 2019

Future Forward MP Taopiphop Limjittrakorn: Beer, Business and Politics in Thailand

This episode is the second half of our interview with Taopiphop Limjittrakorn, beer advocate and member of Thai Parliament from the Future Forward Party. Ed asks Tao about his decision to run for parliament and how his life has changed since taking his seat. Turns out that once Tao decided to run, he chose Bangkok Yai, a district in Bangkok that is traditionally a stronghold for the Democratic Party. With no experience and a low budget, Tao had to develop his own grassroots campaign strategy, His approach worked, and he won his district (where Ed happens to live) comfortably.  Tao also talks about how humble he felt taking his seat in Parliament and working with some old Thai politicians he heard of as a kid. He discusses his life as an MP, his workload, and how voting works in the Future Forward Party. But as Tao explains, his real interest is in promoting equality of opportunity in Thailand. All he really wants to do is have his own small brewery and bar. Is that too much to ask? Unfortunately, to make his dream happen, he had to become a member of Parliament and do his best to change the Thai laws that always seem to favor big corporations and the wealthy.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E2 · Tue, October 29, 2019

Future Forward MP Taopiphop Limjittrakorn: Beer, Business and Politics in Thailand

Greg and Ed are very happy to welcome to the podcast Taopiphop Limjitrikorn, a beer entrepreneur and current member of Thai parliament from the Future Forward Party.  In this first of a two-part interview, Greg and Tao discuss Tao’s background as a lawyer and how he transitioned from that into brewing his own beer, which - believe it or not, he got arrested for! Greg explains, with Tao’s help, that Thai law is shockingly unfair to small brewers, essentially making it impossible for anyone but larger corporations (or ultra-rich families) to make beer in the Kingdom. So then what’s up with Thai craft beer around Bangkok? Well, Tao explains that all (legal) Thai craft beer is actually made over the border in Cambodia and then imported into Thailand and subjected to heavy duties.   Coincidentally, Tao heard about a new political movement in Thailand made up largely of young people who wanted to move beyond the red-yellow divide of previous generations. This movement morphed into the Future Forward Party, and without big money or a big family name (or any political experience), Tao jumped into the Thai election held earlier this year. Although he was in a district traditionally controlled by Thailand’s biggest political party, Tao pulled off a huge upset win! Make sure to listen to next week’s show when Ed and Tao discuss his new life as a member of Thai parliament.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S4 E1 · Tue, October 22, 2019

Same Cool Hosts, Cool New Season

Greg and Ed discuss the absolutely EPIC beginning of season 4 of the Bangkok Podcast. Why start a new season? Well, it turns out that seasons 1 and 2 were in the 70ish episode range and 80 seemed a good round number. Plus, the guys were just ready for some changes! But first - a book giveaway! Listen in to learn how you can win a copy of Working in Thailand by our buddy Karsten, who co-authored. So, what are all these changes about, you ask? First, more content for our Patrons, especially photo and video content, including interviews with people like Taopiphop, a member of Thai Parliament.  Second, a cool new segment called ‘Token Thai,’ where a real live Thai person will talk to Greg and Ed about cross cultural issues, including questions that Thai people have about westerners. Third, a ‘resources’ section of the Bangkok Podcast web page that includes posts of useful information that our fans can easily access, such as basic Thai language, Thai culture, and the Bangkok transit system.  Listen in to hear about a few more small changes coming up in Season 4. Let’s get this train rollin’! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E80 · Tue, October 08, 2019

Neighborhood Focus: Sukhumvit Soi 71 (Phra Kanong)

Big News: This show will be the final episode of Season 3! We figure 80 episodes is the right number given the length of previous seasons, so the Bangkok Podcast will be taking a week off next week before commencing Season 4, which will include a few interesting changes to the show. (Spoiler Alert: Ed is coming back, woo hoo!)  And a quick note - if you want to read the esoteric-yet-fascinating Harvard study on Bangkok’s khlongs that we talk about in the show, you can get it here . So in the last show of the season, the boys venture out to explore the ‘Phra Khanong’ area, which includes Sukhumvit Soi 71 (aka Soi Pridi Banomyong) and the area immediately around the Phra Khanong BTS station. Why Phra Khanong? Well, it turns out the area is in the news this week, as it was named the 12th coolest neighborhood in the world by Time Out Magazine ! Greg and Ed were so surprised by the designation that they ran out, met up with a buddy who lives in the area, and checked it out. This episode is their report. Beginning at ‘W District’, they sample the excellent outdoor food court and beer garden in the back, as well as a number of cool restaurants and cafes dotted throughout the complex. The soi immediately behind W District, Pridi Soi 3, is an eclectic mix of bars, small restaurants, barbershops, clothes shops, karaoke parlors and massage places, with its own personality.  As for the side sois off of Soi 71, despite walking up and down and in an out, your hosts struggled to find interesting places to hang out, but perhaps it was the evening hour. That being said, the entire area was bustling with activity and all of the small Thai restaurants and shops were fairly busy. The guys did manage to find a cool little cocktail bar called Clouds Across the Moon on Pridi Soi 14, cheaper than the ‘mixology’ joints on Thong Lor and Ekkamai but just as delicious. Pridi Soi 2 also proved interesting with many street restaurants, an Irish hole-in-the-wall pub, and a fun looking Mexican restaurant with great drink specials.  Although both Greg and Ed liked what they saw and consider the area (especially W District) worth a visit, they were a bit amiss as to why (or how) this area got ranked so high on TimeOut’s list. But who knows, maybe the guys just aren’t cool enough to know cool when they see it. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be <a href= "http://bangkokpodca

S3 E79 · Tue, October 01, 2019

Thailand's Evolving Attitude on Mental Health

Greg interviews Rex de Koening and Johanna de Koening Schaaij from New Counseling Service , who have been working as therapists in Thailand since 2001. Rex and Johanna begin by explaining that traditionally in Thailand there was no concept of mental health other than the idea that a person is either fine or crazy - nothing in between. Slowly this idea has been changing, however, sparked significantly by the tsunami crisis of 2004, which caused large scale trauma. Johanna notes that traditional sources of emotional support - the family, monks, and fortune tellers - are playing less of a role in modern Thai life, especially in Bangkok, where many people are working long hours, often estranged from their families or home towns.  Rex discusses his and Johanna’s deep understanding of Thai culture, which comes from their decades of experience treating Thais with a variety of mental health issues, from depression and anxiety to obsessive-compulsive disorder and ADHD. Johanna talks about the changing role of the family in both Thailand and the West, which may be the root cause of the rise in attention-related disorders, among others.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E78 · Tue, September 24, 2019

Are Bangkok's Floods Getting Worse?

Greg and Ed dive into the flooding crisis in Thailand. (Get it?) Ed begins with some sobering statistics on the recent spate of floods that have affected 34 provinces, including Bangkok, which kicks off some not-so-nostalgic discussions about previous Bangkok flood stories, from wading down the soi in flip flops or simply being trapped at home on an ‘island’ until the water subsides. Granted, considering the flooding issues that some people have dealt with, this is small potatoes.    But have things gotten worse? The guys admit they lack the expertise to know for sure, but it does seem that the annual problem of flooding hasn’t gotten any better, even though the rainy season is largely predictable. Adding to the gloomy situation are Bangkok’s precarious position at near sea level and the rising oceans due to climate change. The boys end with a somewhat desperate hope that the Thai government has a team of world class experts working on a master plan to save our beloved city. Does it? Greg and Ed don’t know, but if you have confidence in the Thai government to deal with this immense problem, the boys have some swampland in Florida to sell you. It’s also near sea level by the way. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share. Photo by Philip Roeland

S3 E77 · Tue, September 17, 2019

Making Thai Subtitles: Culture, Slang, and Curse Words

Greg interviews Palm, a professional translator of English to Thai, but in a very specific context: subtitles for film and television. Palm begins by explaining that she literally learned English by being a couch potato and watching a lot of Western TV shows and movies, surviving by figuring out the subtitles word by word. This led naturally to an interest in doing it for a living, and lo and behold, her dream came to when she got a job translating for MTV Thailand. Eventually, this led to translating for a major video distribution company (which shall remain anonymous).  Greg quizzes Palm on the difficulties of her job and how she can possibly find Thai equivalents for all the weird expressions and slang in English. Palm notes that this in fact makes her job fun, as she often has to do research to first make sure she has the proper understanding in her own head before she can determine the best Thai equivalent. Unsurprisingly, curse words are quite difficult, and Greg and Palm discuss some rude expressions and how Palm approaches translating them.  They also discuss the difference between simply translating a word, and translating intentions, concepts, and context. Apply this to, say, hip-hop culture, or RuPaul’s show “Drag Race”, and you can see where it becomes difficult!  Palm concludes with some advice for wannabe subtitlers, so listen in for some excellent career guidance if you are so inclined.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E76 · Tue, September 10, 2019

Neighborhood Focus: Sukhumvit Soi 11

Greg and Ed discuss one of their old stomping grounds - Sukhumvit Soi 11, perhaps the most famous destination on Sukhumvit that doesn’t involve a red light district! Beginning with stories of their early days on the soi, when it was primarily known as home to swanky Q Bar and Bed Supperclub, it’s gone through several iterations since then. Indeed, Greg notes that it always seems to be going through a transition, and not just construction-wise. The identity of the soi also seems to change over time and the hi-so feel of old Soi 11 was replaced by more of a sports bar, burger joint, live music, and tourist vibe.  The boys discuss their ‘research trip’ to Soi 11, where they discovered that it is yet again undergoing massive renovation, with large swathes of the soi actually inaccessible due to construction. However, there are still multiple excellent restaurants and pubs along the way - The Australian, the rebuilt Hemingway’s, Limoncello, and Daniel Thaiger. Listen as Greg and Ed discuss why they think each place is a standout - and shed a tear over the original Cheap Charlie’s. On top of that, just around the corner at the end of the soi lies a newly relocated Villa Supermarket as well as Apoteka, one of the better venues for live music in all of Bangkok. Although Soi 11 may be in a ‘rebuilding phase’ at the moment, it’s still worth a visit now - in one to three years, however, it should be back into its prime.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E75 · Tue, September 03, 2019

Roger Crutchley: Writing About 50 Years in Bangkok

Readers of the Bangkok Post will need no introduction to this week’s guest. Roger Crutchley - or Old Crutch, as he’s known - arrived in Bangkok in 1969 by accident, never intending to stay. Yet here we are, 50 years later, and after a multi-decade career at the Bangkok Post and adventures too numerous to count, he sits down to riff on the past 5 decades in Thailand. From bullet-riddled visa runs to Cambodia, to Vietnam-era beer bars on Phetchburi Road, to Thai protests and coups, Roger has seen it all, reporting on it in the pages of the Bangkok Post, which was first printed in the same year Roger was born. We also discuss his new book, The Long Winding Road to Nakhon Nowhere , which recounts some of his misadventures, and provides some great insight into why Bangkok was, is, and probably will always be, such a fascinating city. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E74 · Tue, August 27, 2019

Second Opinions & Jedi Lies: Stories from Bangkok's Hospitals

Sooner or later, we all spend some time in the hospital, so Greg and Ed riff on their myriad experiences in Bangkok hospitals over the years. But before we get into that, we should note - due to Thailand’s strict defamation laws, some of the places we talk about will remain nameless.  But with that out of the way, we can say that Thailand in general has pretty good medical care, and it is standard advice for travelers in neighboring countries to get over the border into Thailand if they have any medical problems. But, as Ed notes, Thailand does not have very good legal protections against medical malpractice: if a doctor makes a mistake, don’t expect significant financial compensation from the Thai justice system. Greg and Ed then trade anecdotes about their own experiences in the Thai medical system, each with some good and bad things to say. Ed’s life has been literally saved by competent doctors; Greg passed himself off as a Jedi in lieu of a real religion; both have been saved a ton of grief by getting a second opinion. Your mileage may vary, but both Greg and Ed agree, as a pure value proposition (i.e. what you get for the money), Thailand, though far from perfect, is a pretty good deal.  Listen in for some great advice on how to maximize your chances of getting a good experience at a Bangkok hospital.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E73 · Tue, August 20, 2019

Bangkok Social: Conversations That Matter at Aristotle’s Cafe

Greg talks to Hassan Ghiassi, the creator and organizer of Aristotle’s Cafe , a Bangkok group that focuses on meetups that involve discussions and debates on questions voted on by the participants themselves.  Firstly, Aristotle’s Cafe is a format, and the location is not fixed. At the beginning of each meetup, the attendees submit questions and then vote on what to discuss. But does the same format work equally well in different cities and cultures? Greg raises issues from his own experience about difficult people dominating discussions, as well as cultural issues involving Thai people supposedly being ‘shy.’ Have now worry, Hassan says, his long experience running the ‘cafe’ in several different countries have shown him that most participants - including Thais - often shed their reluctance to express opinions in the right environment.  But AC isn’t just for youngins! Hassan says that the group gets all types - older farangs yearning for English language contacts, Thais wanting to improve their English, and people trying to network and make friends. The one thing they all seem to have in common is the desire to make real connections. Hassan also stresses that since topics are not announced ahead of time, you never know what will be discussed other than that the most popular topics are typically current and relevant to whatever is going on in the world at that time.  No doubt Aristotle’s Cafe is one of the many Bangkok subcultures that make this city the best in the world for expats!  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E72 · Tue, August 13, 2019

Expat Destinations: Bangkok vs. Phnom Penh

First up - apologies for Greg’s bad audio on this episode! Small technical problem, and it sounds like he’s talking on a phone from Peru. Luckily, Ed does most of the talking! Speaking of Ed, he recently returned from 4 days in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, his first-ever visit. The city’s going through somewhat of a renaissance of late, with plenty of discussion online about PP vs BKK. So what’s Ed’s verdict? As a matter of course, Greg introduces the subject by urging listeners to learn about Cambodia’s tragic history and to take that into account when evaluating its level of development. With that in mind, Ed notes that in many ways, it’s not fair to compare Phnom Penh to Bangkok, and a fairer comparison would be to Chiang Mai. Still, many expats are considering is an alternative to Thailand for various reasons. Next, Ed also points out that there are many factors at play and there’s no truly objective way to judge the cities. What works for one expat may not work for another, so this represents only Ed’s point of view, with Greg chiming about his trip many years ago. On the plus side, Ed notes that Phnom Penh seems more chilled out, with less traffic and more open spaces than Bangkok. The result is a real ‘holiday vibe’ for seemingly everyone there. Further, there’s less of a police presence overall and alcohol is cheaper due to lower import taxes. On the negative side, Phnom Penh has significantly fewer restaurant and nightlife options and the infrastructure, such as mobile internet, is not up to Bangkok standards. And certainly don’t expect subways and skytrains. Greg and Ed run through all of these points, plus a few more, and ponder if - and in what circumstances - a move to Phnom Penh would be advised if you’re thinking about moving on from Bangkok. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E71 · Tue, August 06, 2019

Transport Engineer Don Siridhara Digs Deep into Bangkok’s Rail Network

With the iminent opening of the MRT Blue Line extension, we sit down with Don Siridhara, a lecturer and transportation planning engineer, to geek out over Bangkok’s expanding rail network. But first - you might want to consult this handy Google Map that Greg made as you listen that shows all future rail lines. It’s our first interactive show! Don discusses why Bangkok’s first train line only opened in 1999, why it’s taken so long to get up to speed, the challenges of grafting a modern rail system on top of a 250-year old road network, what’s happening with the Taksin Bridge rail expansion, and why simply “adding more trains” to solve congestion isn’t as easy as it sounds. We also discuss the story behind Bangkok’s two ‘ghost stations’, the holdup with the long-promised one-ticket system, the new Bang Sue rail terminal, and how maybe, just maybe, the old old rail depot along Phectchaburi Road will be turned into a sweet new park. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E70 · Tue, July 30, 2019

Why Do Expats Leave Thailand?

Greg and Ed address an important but tricky question: Why do expats leave Thailand? How do you know when the right time to leave is? The boys ponder the various reasons why to find out what’s more common - work or family issues, personal problems with fitting in, or more Thai-centric problems such as just plain growing tired of Bangkok, Thai culture, or the confusing politics. Greg recounts several expat families who have left due to the expense of international schools for their kids, while Ed points out that that certain expats seem on a very specific timetable due to the length of a posting, either at a private company or NGO. And as evidenced in our two-part expat women dating show, many foreign women leave due to lack of dating opportunities.  Then Ed runs through some specific cases of his friends: one left due to a relationship ending, another due to visa issues, but a third did leave after being harassed by Thai cops and getting frustrated with the Thai political situation. All in all, it does seem that most people seem to leave over work related or personal issues, rather than problems with Thai society itself.  To conclude, the boys offer some advice to expats who are bored with Bangkok but have a choice over when to leave: check out another city in Thailand such as Chiang Mai or consider another city in Southeast Asia such as Kuala Lumpur or Phnom Penh. Just because you are tired of Bangkok doesn’t mean the adventure has to end! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E69 · Tue, July 23, 2019

Making Bangkok Accessible for All: Khun Saba Keeps Fighting

First - don’t forget our meetup on 27 July at Smalls. Get more info here . And also don’t forget that both Greg AND Ed will be speaking at Bombyx on 26 July. Get more info here . Okay, on this episode Greg interviews Khun Saba, a disabled rights activist in Bangkok. It’s a topic near and dear to the Bangkok Podcast, because we want everyone to enjoy Bangkok, which is very hard to do if you don’t have full mobility. Khun Saba explains that he became aware of the difficulty of moving around Thai cities, especially Bangkok, after he became disabled, and notes that while physical and structural issues are important, the key issue is really awareness. Simply put, if people blindly accept all the problems with transportation in Bangkok, then of course they will never be solved.  Greg asks Khun Saba about a notorious incident in which he broke a pane of glass when he couldn’t use the elevator at Asoke BTS Station. The circumstances were unusual and need to be fully listened to to be understood, but the incident highlights the daily frustration of disabled people in Bangkok.  Khun Saba also makes clear that his organization fights for the rights of all Bangkokians to safe and convenient access to transportation in the city and not just the rights of people who are actually physically disabled. He describes his dream of making Bangkok a city of truly international standards where all citizens are equal in terms of their access to the city. We urge you to like the page of Accessibility is Freedom - you’ll get some great insight into Bangkok from a whole different point of view. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever

S3 E68 · Tue, July 16, 2019

Dr. Vorapot Discusses Bangkok’s Dengue Dangers

Dengue infections are off the chart this year, and it pays to know the dangers. Do you? ARE YOU SURE? Greg interviews Dr. Vorapot, an expert in travel medicine and in particular tropical diseases such as dengue fever. Greg and Dr. V review the scary data on the increases in dengue cases in Thailand, noting that different types of mosquitoes breed in different environments. Luckily, the type that carries malaria tends to breed in clean water in the jungle, but other types can breed in cities such as Bangkok, especially during the rainy season.  Dr. V goes through the stages of dengue fever infection. Surprisingly, about 90% of dengue infections result in little or no symptoms, but about 10% of people suffer serious effects. A further complication is that sometimes later exposure to dengue can result in more serious consequences, and the dengue vaccine itself must be carefully administered to not put patients in a more vulnerable state. Dr. V also reviews the symptoms of dengue fever, which unfortunately can mimic the symptoms of other viral infections.  Last, the good doctor runs through a great mnemonic device to help prepare you for many tropical diseases. Listen in to get some great advice that might keep you out of trouble while travelling in Thailand.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E67 · Tue, July 09, 2019

Director Pailin Wedel Talks About Her Film ‘Hope Frozen’

A bit of self-promotion first - we’re happy to see that the Bangkok Podcast was chosen as one of 2019’s top 25 expat podcasts over at Feedspot . A great honor! Now to the show... Greg and Ed are psyched to sit down with Pailin Wedel, a Thai-American journalist and filmmaker based in Bangkok, about her new film “Hope Frozen.” Pailin talks a bit about her background as a journalist making short documentary pieces for Al Jazeera and other news outlets. Her new film, however, sprang from a chance meeting with a Thai family suffering an extraordinary tragedy. In brief, the young daughter of a very scientifically-minded Thai family was suffering from terminal cancer, and the family made the decision to ‘cryo-preserve’ their daughter in the hopes that she could possibly be revived in the future with superior technology.  Pailin saw the opportunity to tell a unique story, and luckily the family agreed to be filmed. What ensued was a more than two year process of following the family through the twists and turns of this nightmare scenario, including sometimes unflattering coverage in the Thai media. Pailin relates the tale of making the film and the multiple cultural and religious questions raised by the family’s decisions. She details not only the family’s struggles, but also her own fight to find adequate funding to do the story justice.  The story of ‘Hope Frozen’ reached an incredible (and thoroughly unexpected) climax when the film won the highest award at North America’s largest documentary film festival, HotDocs. Listen in for Pailin’s first hand account of discovering and telling this amazing story, and make sure to follow its continuing journey on the Hope Frozen Facebook page. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E66 · Tue, July 02, 2019

Bangkok History Highlight: The Cambodian Thai Soap Opera Riots of 2003

Continuing our series on interesting events in Thai history, Greg introduces the Thai-Cambodian ‘crisis’ of 2003. It started when rumors began spreading that a Thai soap opera actress, Suvanant Kongying, had said Cambodia had ‘stolen’ Angkor Wat from Thailand. After the Cambodian Prime Minister repeated the allegations and banned Thai radio programs and TV shows, anti-Thai mobs began to form in Phnom Penh and soon became violent, leading to looting, evacuations, threats of military action, and even a border closure!  The sad kicker is that there was actually no direct evidence that the original comments had even been made, with the best theory being that a character played by the actress may have been the original source of the rumors! Listen in for Greg and Ed’s theories of why the relationship between Thailand and Cambodia is so fragile and for more incredible details from this bizarre saga.  As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E65 · Tue, June 25, 2019

Dating in Bangkok: Expat Women Share Stories & Advice

Part 2 of a panel discussion with four guests! Why four? Well, everyone knows that cliche about Bangkok being a heaven for expat men, but we didn’t know much about what it’s like for expat women. It stands to reason that one woman can’t speak for all women, so we upped the game a bit. We discuss a myriad of stories that show how complex, nuanced, and (depending on the person) important the issue is to a life well lived in the capital. Among many other things, the ladies discuss dating horror stories, advice for new joiners, adjusting standards and expectations, and expat women-only social media groups to vet potential mates, advice for newbies. Also discussed - after a move to Thailand does a male 5 become a 7, and does a female 7 become a 5? Why are Thai men shy about approaching expat women, and why are so many expat men bitter against expat women? What is a “gik”- and does Greg have one? (spoiler - hells to the no). As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E64 · Tue, June 18, 2019

Dating in Bangkok: Expat Women Share Their Stories - Part 1

It’s a very unique episode of the Bangkok Podcast! Greg and Ed do a first for the the show, with a panel discussion with four guests! Why four? Well, everyone knows that cliche about Bangkok being a heaven for expat men, but we didn’t know much about expat women. It stands to reason that one woman can’t speak for all women, so we upped the game a bit. After some introductions, we get into the meat of the show, with a myriad of stories that show how complex, nuanced, and (depending on the person) important the issue is to a life well lived in the capital. Among many other things, the ladies discuss the differences between the attention they get back home and what they get in Bangkok, what it’s like to date Thai men (and women), the quality of farang men in Thailand, and a host of other issues. There are also some hilarious(ly awful) Tinder stories, anecdotes about being approached on the street, issues that single moms have to deal with, discussion about western women who leave Thailand bitter and angry, and how Asian American women are treated in Thailand. Suffice it to say more than one can of worms are opened up in part one of a two-part mega interview. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E63 · Tue, June 11, 2019

Ed vs. Reverse Culture Shock

When you’ve been an expat for a long time and don’t visit home regularly, what’s it like going back?  Is reverse culture shock even real? Greg and Ed discuss Ed’s first trip back to the States in 4 years to see how ed digested it all. Usually one to enjoy his trips back, Ed notes two major things that struck him: first, without the language and cultural barriers, things unexpectedly just work, and the feeling of standing there not knowing what to do when things go well is a little weird. Second, in the American suburbs, you can travel pretty far very quickly, while in Bangkok, all travel seems to take a long time. So while back in the States, all time estimates have to be re-calibrated. Greg then asks a few interesting questions: Did Ed find his hometown boring compared to Bangkok, as Greg did with his own? Did Ed get distracted by all the conversations around him that he can now understand? What type of questions did he get about Thailand? And how were Ed’s friendships affected by staying away for so long? As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E62 · Tue, June 04, 2019

Driving in Bangkok: Cars vs. Motorbikes

With Ed still on vacation, Greg is joined by special co-host Scott Coates to discuss a question of the ages - when driving in Bangkok, what’s the best way to do it - car, or motorbike? Despite neither of the guys having their own transportation for their first 15 or so years in town, both now drive regularly - Greg in a car, and Scott on a motorbike. So which one is best? They discuss the ups and downs of each type of ride, special gear bike riders need, the limitations that car drivers face, and pet peeves they have about trying to find a parking spot in places where you’d think it would be easy. Plus, a bike-related Love, Loathe or Live With - as a bike rider himself, what does Scott think about motorbikes using the sidewalks to bypass traffic - including (probably) Greg sitting in his car at a red light? Listen to find out. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E61 · Tue, May 28, 2019

Talking with Phra Pandit: Amulets, Talismans, Relics & Faith

It’s been a while, but one of our favorite semi-regular guests is back! Bangkok Podcast’s official Buddhist correspondent, Phra Pandit, welcomed Greg at his temple to talk about amulets, talismans, and Buddhist relics - and what ties them all together. The burning question Greg had was - if seemingly every third temple claims to have a piece of Buddha’s body - what exactly happened to the poor guy when he died? Phra Pandit explains the history behind the idea of Buddhist relics and what Buddha said about them, as well as their link to Sri Lanka and how a wooden mannequin brought to life kicked the whole thing off. Greg and Phra Pandit also dive into the topic of amulets and talismans, including the famous Jatukham craze of 2006, and discuss what - if anything - makes one amulet worth more than another one. Does it make them more effective? Do people act differently if they think they’re more effective? They finish with a fascinating discussion about how stories and tokens can be a powerful tool in helping us solidify and understand abstract concepts such as marriage, death, and even architecture! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E60 · Tue, May 21, 2019

Up Close and Personal: Live Storytelling at Bombyx

Bangkok’s live performance scene is evolving in some interesting ways, and nowhere is that more clear than at Bombyx , the city’s most popular live storytelling event. We chat with organizer John Englander about the history of the event and what makes it special, including how speakers are chosen (and rejected), and what ingredients it takes from Bangkok’s eclecting local and expat communities. John also tells us about his own first experience as a Bombyx speaker, and how terror quickly turned into pure adrenaline when he learned how to properly shape a story for his audience, how to prepare to entertain a bunch of strangers, and how he finally cracked the sad:funny ratio when telling a touching story. Ed - as a Bombyx presenter multiple times himself - also tells the stories behind his own stories, and Greg reveals that he will give his first Bombyx presentation at the event that happens on 24 May - two days after this episode drops! We hope to see you there. And yes, we do ask John why it’s called Bombyx and what exactly that means - you’ll have to listen for the answer. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E59 · Tue, May 14, 2019

Gadget Geeks in Bangkok

Are you a gadget geek? Greg and Ed sure are, and they discuss some of the key places in Bangkok for people to get their gadget geek jollies. But it ain’t all e-wine and circuit board roses in Bangkok; Ed notes that the best places in the world to buy technology are still in the United States, Singapore and Hong Kong. That being said, Thai prices might be better than certain places such as Australia and Europe. The boys next discuss the main places to go if you’re on the hunt for gear - Pantip Plaza, MBK, and Fortune Town, as well as the legendary (though slightly less well known among foreigners) Baan Mo market. Each has its own pluses and minuses, and all have changed a lot in the past 5 or 6 years, which Greg and Ed discuss. But will the old-school brick and mortar shops be around much longer? The boys consider online options and both admit they are becoming much more viable. Recommendations include Lazada, InvadeIT, Shop4Thai, Shopee, and Ali Express. All are worth checking out but be wary of cheap projects from China - if it looks too good to be true, it probably is. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E58 · Tue, May 07, 2019

Bangkok Informed: What It’s Like Moderating an Expat Facebook Group

Most of us have used one type of expat group or another, so you know that they’re often a chaotic mix of helpful advice, strange questions, and angry debates. Helpful? Sometimes. Boring? Never. On this episode, Greg interviews Blake Sibbitt, the creator of a relatively new Facebook group called Bangkok Informed , who talks about what goes on behind the scenes. Blake explains the basic goal behind his forum: to split the difference between highly curated forums where participants must follow a strict set of rules and wild west style forums that quickly devolve into vulgar nastiness. According to Blake, most people want something in the middle, and that’s the service he is trying to provide. Greg and Blake discuss some of the common problems - trolls, how to define ‘offensive’, and members who are determined to be offended no matter what they read. Blakes overall advice is simple - members should focus on just posting content they would like to see, causing the forum to naturally head in the direction they would like. Although he’s had to deal with a few problematic members, Blake maintains quite a Zen attitude and refuses to be bothered by the troublemakers. As all of us need to be reminded now and again, the Internet is not the real world, and there’s no reason to to get too bent out of shape. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E57 · Tue, April 30, 2019

Dealing With Common Expat Problems in Bangkok

Bangkok is a great city to be an expat in, but it’s not without its challenges. On this show, Greg and Ed compare Bangkok to other expat destinations around the world based on a number of issues from an article Greg read about expat life. From missing your support network, to worry about finances, to worries over romance and dating, the issues are very real, but also very different, depending on which city you’re in. For instance, both feel that Bangkok is a very easy city to find a new support network, but disagree on how many opportunities Bangkok offers for financial or business success - listen to hear each opposing side. The boys continue to debate and discuss how Bangkok shapes one’s approach to other common problems from the article - business networking! New friends! Language barriers! Long-term planning! All the greatest hits are here. Ultimately, the expat life is not for everyone, but discussing the pros and cons of each issue, and understanding how your chosen city - in this case, Bangkok, duh - can add or detract from the journey, is key to your success. The boys conclusion should be no surprise:  Bangkok is a great place to be an expat! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E56 · Tue, April 23, 2019

Charity, Kindness & Food: Talking With Courageous Kitchen's Dwight Turner

Greg interviews Dwight Turner, the founder of Courageous Kitchen, a nonprofit organization that centers on food and nutrition education for at-risk youth and families in Bangkok. Dwight recounts the start of the organization and how it sprang from a simple desire to find something more meaningful in his life after the traveling and partying were done. Over time, the organization evolved into a program that teaches young people how and what to cook. Seems easy, but for those at risk - such as Bangkok’s refugeee communities - mastering kitchen skills open up all kinds of doors in empowerment and confidence building. To make practical use of potentially dangerous things such as knives and gas stoves and to plan and prepare a meal with a team of peers instills a sense of responsibility and leadership in the children who have gone through the program. When all is said and done, cooking is harder and scarier for kids than you might realize at first. Along the way, Courageous Kitchen passes on nutrition information that the students can then disseminate either formally or informally in their communities, inspires entrepreneurism, and provides English lessons to help the kids function in an international community. Dwight also relates some of the success stories of young people and families that have gone through his program, some of whom who have gone on to successful education and careers in the U.S. Last, Dwight gives advice on how anyone can help out, either through donations or through volunteering. For more info, watch these short YouTube videos profiling Courageous Kitchen   here , here , and here . As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and <a href= "http://bit.ly/2iVKohx"

S3 E55 · Tue, April 16, 2019

How Quickly Are You Prepared to Leave Bangkok?

On this episode, Greg and Ed discuss the concept of a “Go Bag” - that is, a bag that always stays packed in case you need to get outta Dodge. Both hosts know people who have them, but it’s a concept that’s different for everyone. It might seem alarmist, but here in Bangkok, things can sometimes go bad in a hurry. But how do you define a Go Bag? As Greg explains, it could be something as simple as making sure you have the supplies to work from home for a few days in case of something bad happening, like the fire at Central World mall last week. Or as Ed discusses, you could be one of those folks who has made a full-on evacuation plan, with alternate routes to the airport, and a plan to pick up family members on the way. And of course, not everyone will react to the same emergency in the same manner - many long-term expats are used to the occasional social hiccup that requires some flexible planning, but others might have a lower tolerance for interruptions, and will feel the need to leave Thailand in the rearview if things get dicey. Either way, the concept of a Go Bag (or even just a Go Plan) is something that we think every expat should at least think about. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E54 · Tue, April 09, 2019

HUBBA Thailand CEO Talks Real Estate, Coworking & Entrepreneurism

Greg interviews Aim Chareonphan, the CEO of Hubba Thailand, a coworking pioneer in Thailand. From humble beginnings borne out of a frustration with coworking spaces that weren’t...quite...there yet, Aim and his partner conceived of a place that was more than just a workspace; somewhere that provided a community that supports entrepreneurs and startups, a resource itself rather than just a place to get work done. Aim details the many obstacles his company has faced, not the least of which was educating the Thai market about the nature of startups and the role that a supportive workspace could play in their success. Another main factor is the rapid change happening in the workforce in Thailand and around the world. In short, the traditional ‘office’ is slowly but surely becoming less popular. According to Khun Aim, right now only 1% of office space in Asia is coworking, but by 2030 that number is expected to be 10-15%! Aim gets into some stats and figures that portend a drastic change in how people - and companies - get work done amidst this new paradigm.   The best news of all is how companies like HUBBA can bolster the pledges made by government to push Thailand’s young generation to be innovative, risk-taking, out-of-the-box thinkers. While skepticism abounds, Aim indicates there are at least some reasons to be optimistic. That’s always good to hear. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E53 · Tue, April 02, 2019

Bangkok History Highlight: The Amazing Career and Tragic Death of Mitr Chaibancha

First of all - we’re on YouTube! Well, just the audio of each show, but still...makes it easier to listen. Head on over to our channel and subscribe ! On to the show… In a continuation of the series on Thai history, Greg and Ed discuss the fascinating career and tragic death of Mitr Chaibancha, perhaps Thailand’s greatest movie star. From his early days growing poverty to a promising career as a lightweight Muay Thai fighter, to an Air Force flight at Don Meuang Royal Thai Air Force base, Khun Mitr’s life was interesting from the start. After a chance meeting, Khun Mitr met a film producer and was cast in his first small movie role. From there, his career took off, and he would eventually star in an insane 266 films over a 14 year career (averaging one every three weeks!). Specializing in both romance and action, most of his films were made on a small budget but were a hit across the country as his legend grew. Unfortunately, Khun Mitr’s last film, The Golden Eagle (don’t miss the awesome plot summary by Greg), would end in tragedy as his refusal to use a stuntman would result in his untimely death. His cremation was mobbed by hundreds of thousands of fans, something that the Bangkok Post called "The most riotous and trouble-plagued funeral rite in living memory". Click here to see a documentary on Mitr (in Thai), including footage of his cremation . As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E52 · Tue, March 26, 2019

Season 3 Retrospective: Looking Back on 1 Year

Greg and Ed reminisce about Ed’s first year as co-host of the Bangkok Podcast. Ed begins with a big ‘thank you’ to Greg for giving him the opportunity, and Greg gives a brief history of the BP over the years, from Season 1 with Tony Joh, which lasted for about a year and a half, to Season 2 with Evo Terra, which lasted about the same amount of time, and then to the last year with Ed. Ed talks about what he has liked and disliked about being the co-host, such as the weekly deadlines that are a bit stressful, and what it does to your brain to dive deep into Bangkok on a weekly basis. The best part for Ed? He particularly enjoys the less serious nature of the podcast, a break from the heaviness of being a professor all day- it’s just been a surprisingly fun side gig! Greg also discusses the effect of having to work with different co-hosts, and admits that each one has added a unique flavor to the show (with Ed bringing in new philosophical takes on on Thailand), but that in general, his vision has been the same over the years - honest talk from two regular guys about what it’s like living in the wacky, wonderful world of Bangkok. Both agree that the show has also helped them to reconnect to their early days in Thailand, helping them to revisit a lot of their earliest memories of being here. Finally, one of the things Ed appreciates most is how the show doesn’t involve incessantly bashing Thailand, but also does not shy away from honest criticism. Here’s to another year of the dynamic and dare we say dangerous duo of Greg and Ed! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E51 · Tue, March 19, 2019

Bored Expats: Getting Your Groove Back in Bangkok

Bangkok is a giant, chaotic, constantly evolving megalopolis. But guess what? If you live here long enough, you’ll get bored. Happens to everybody. You’ll lose your groove and get stuck in a rut. So what to do? Greg and Ed give their best advice as long term expats, focusing mainly on relocating to a lesser known, more Thai parts of the city. With a quick introduction interview by Greg’s buddy Dom, who recently had his attitude changed by moving across town, the boys recount moving to new neighborhoods themselves - Ed to Rachada and later Thonburi, and Greg to Chinatown - and reinvigorating their Bangkok experience.   Greg then goes into detail about three unheralded parts of the city - the area along Chan Road, Bang Ko Laem on the far end of Rama III Road, and the Dusit/Nakhon Chai Si area on the Northern end of Samsen Road (see a map here ). Each of these has easy access into Bangkok, but retain a unique Thainess that would present a great adventure for any farang. Ed puts in a vote for Bang Kachao, the green lung of Bangkok, a near island in the middle of the Chao Praya that is like no other part of the city. The boys conclude with some advice for those not ready to make a big move: a lot of times we think we know our own neighborhoods, when in fact there’s plenty to explore right around the corner. A little curiosity and a lot of Google go a long way! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E50 · Tue, March 12, 2019

Talking Muay Thai With Fighter Matt Lucas

Greg interviews writer, commentator, and Muay Thai fighter Matt Lucas about the life of a foreigner in Bangkok practicing the Thai national sport. Matt begins with his background story - living in San Francisco and choosing between working in a bar and being becoming a drunk or practicing Muay Thai and only drinking on weekends. :) Muay Thai won out, and he Matt became serious about the sport, travelled to Thailand, and eventually relocated here. Matt is not only a fighter, he’s also a chronicler of the sport, a proper ‘Muay Thai journalist.’ Matt talks about how Muay Thai has changed over time, moving out of the pure gambling context into the world of being a popular sport, and a form of entertainment. Greg and Matt talk about the difficulties he’s faced as a foreigner practicing the national sport of another culture, the natural barriers expats encounter, such as use of Thai language, and the way the Muay Thai is ingrained in the culture of the rural countryside, which also makes it hard for foreigners to participate directly. He also discusses the difficulties that foreigners have when trying to understand the world of Muay Thai, including some of its problems (like injuries to children), while lacking a deep understanding of Thai culture in general. Foreigners, as he points out, don’t always know better. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E49 · Tue, March 05, 2019

Bangkok's Best Photography Spots

The guys discuss something of great interest to many of our listeners - where to take the best photos in Bangkok. Ed begins by discussing main tourist attractions such as temples; they have been photographed millions of times, but if you aren’t looking for something unique, Bangkok’s disparate temples are a great place to practice. For something a little out of the way, Ed also recommends a trip to Ayutthaya for a ‘mini-Angkor’ experience, which, while also over-photographed, is something special for the noobie. Greg chimes in with a vote for Talad Noi, his old stomping ground, which is filled with odd architecture, abandoned vehicles, industrial equipment, and a vibe right out of Blade Runner (especially when it rains). Ed next points out that Bangkok’s skies can provide dramatic photographs, both at sunup and sundown, and during storms, (partially due to the air pollution), but who are we to question where beauty comes from? Greg puts a vote in for Phahurat (aka Little India), and most especially the gnarled mass of sois behind a large Sikh temple, amidst other photo ops. Ed also suggests the back of Benjasiri Park, where some great action shots can be grabbed of the takraw players there. To close, a discussion of Bangkok’s coolest architecture, including a few iconic buildings and bridges that lend themselves to some dramatic vistas. Did we miss any? What’s your favorite place in Bangkok to snap a few awesome photos? As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E48 · Tue, February 26, 2019

Thailand in the Rearview: Catching Up With Evo Terra [Season 3, Episode 48]

Has it already been a whole year? Greg interviews former co-host Evo Terra, who has been back in the United States for one year since leaving Thailand. What does he miss? What doesn’t he miss? And more importantly - can Evo get his precious fish sauce in Phoenix? But before that, we gotta mention our giveaway of sweet, sweet jerky by Siam BBQ Company - listen to learn how you can win a box of free meat! (That sounds dodgy, but trust us, it’s delicious). Evo begins - naturally - with Thai food, saying that it’s everywhere but none tastes exactly like the food in Thailand. Nevertheless, he praises the cuisine of ‘Glai Ban,’ a local restaurant that is about as close as he can get to the real thing. Further, Evo has to run outside of Phoenix to a genuine Asian market for his Ma Ma noodle and (ack, ugh) fish sauce fix. Other comparisons are made too - healthcare, weather, and funerals. That’s right - Evo sighs when he remembers that his day was never ruined by funeral processions in Bangkok,  leading to a discussion of modern mortuary practices. Yeah, it got dark. Finally, Evo admits that he misses being “the guy who doesn’t belong,” as he and Greg discuss the relative peace that can (sometimes) come with being a stranger in a strange land. But while he misses Thailand greatly, Evo finishes with a few creature comforts that he enjoys greatly back home that Thailand simply couldn’t give him. She’s a harsh mistress, my friend.    As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E47 · Tue, February 19, 2019

Do Thais Really Smile More Than Anyone?

“The Land of Smiles” has been one of the most successful marketing campaigns in history. So much so, that many people come to Thailand thinking that every single person in the country is a smiling angel, and are shocked when someone is mean or tries to scam them. This is Greg’s theory anyway, and it’s one of many that he and Ed discuss as they ponder if Thailand really is deserving of its title as one of the friendliest countries in the world. Spoiler - both Greg and Ed think it probably is, but there are a few caveats. How does social structure dictate outward friendliness? Is there a difference between being friendly and being nice? And how much of this reputation comes from dumbass foreigners like us misinterpreting subtle social cues that are embedded deep in Thai culture? Much like one’s opinion of Thailand will be colored by their individual experience, so are Thais colored by their individual personalities, and a sweeping generalization - even a positive one - doesn’t do any country justice. As Greg subtly explains: “Some of the biggest dickheads I know are Canadians, and we’re all supposed to be nice!” As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E46 · Tue, February 12, 2019

Sueching Chin Talks Tech & Thai Culture

Searching for some insight into how technology is shaping the next generation of Thais, Greg interviews Sueching Chin, a TV host, writer, editor, emcee, and media personality who focuses on technology in Thailand. Greg and Sueching begin with the unique way that Thais use social media such as LINE or Instagram to set up, manage, and advertise a small business, which is something not often seen outside of Thailand. This leads into a discussion about the limitations on social media in a country ruled by the military, and some clever ways Thais have found to work with them while still retaining a sense of independence. Sueching then shares a few Thai analogies for living in an online ‘bubble,’ and expresses her concerns about how young Thais will handle the world when they don’t regularly encounter enough new or challenging ideas. Along the way they discuss YouTube as an education medium (possibly one that’s replacing the traditional role of fathers), the Thai education system’s lack of preparedness for a digital future, and the role AI is likely to play in the future job market. Resistance is futile, krap. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E45 · Tue, February 05, 2019

Neighborhood Focus: Thong Lor

In a return to ‘Neighborhood Focus,’ Greg and Ed dive into the jam-packed area surrounding Sukhumvit Soi 55, aka Thong Lor, describing a recent night out they planned in order to give them a refresher on the quickly-evolving area. At the beginning of the soi near Thonglor BTS, Ed sings the praises of Hummus Boutique while Greg emphasizes the excellent street food and, on the other end of the cost spectrum, the rooftop bar Octave at the Marriott on Soi 57. Wotta view! Before entering the soi proper, the guys prepare themselves for ‘Little Japan’ (as Greg calls it) due to the shocking number of Japanese restaurants in the area, that their friend Paul (longtime resident of Thong Lor) said numbers over one hundred! The boys next discuss the plethora of expensive condos throughout the Thong Lor area and where to find some deals, as well as the multitude of mini-malls, like Eight Thonglor or hipster hangouts Seenspace and the Commons. Speaking of hipsters, Greg points out a bunch of premium cocktail bars including Just A Drink Maybe and J. Boroski, one of his favorites - if you can find it. Greg and Ed continue down the soi giving their thoughts on favorites old and new, including Sway, Iron Faeries, Bad Motel, Shades of Retro, Nothing But the Blues, and Game Over, noting that the one thing that makes each of these places a winner is their effort to do something new, rather than go the ‘more of the same’ route that so many beer bars tend to go for. But it ain’t all wine and pastries - Thong Lor has its negative elements too, which Greg and Ed discuss, although ultimately, the area comes out on top as one of Greg and Ed’s favorite areas. Suffice it to say, if you have the dough, there are definitely enough food and drink options on Thong Lor to keep you busy for a lifetime. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E44 · Tue, January 29, 2019

What's it Like Teaching Political Science in a Thai University?

In this episode, a curious Greg queries Ed about what it’s like to teach political science in Thailand, a country that has suffered two coups since the boys arrived and which has been under military rule for the last four years. Ed talks about his early days in the Kingdom, and his naive belief that Thailand had broken out of the ‘vicious cycle’ of semi-democracy and military intervention. Haha, silly Ed, because his happytime thoughts were followed, to his shock, by the 2006 coup and its following red/yellow dustups. Subsequently, Ed kept his mouth shut in class about Thai issues, while he tried to get his bearings. That only lasted until about 2013, when the endless dramas of street protests led Ed to finally snap. Since then, he has spoken his mind about Thai politics to his students on a regular basis. How has he (and his students) fared since? Ed has some very interesting stories to tell. (For what it’s worth, Greg - in his ‘most Buddhist moment yet’ - stopped caring about it all years ago, after getting too wound up over things he could not change.) #breathe Last, the boys ponder the weirdness of growing up in strongly democratic countries only to find themselves living in an authoritarian society which is far from perfect but which, to the average Joe Somchai, seems relatively stable and eminently livable. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E43 · Tue, January 22, 2019

Christopher G. Moore on Bangkok, Creativity & Storytelling

Greg interviews author and noted man-about-town Christopher G. Moore, who returns to the show after appearing in Episode 44 of Season 1. In a wide ranging and philosophical discussion, Greg and Christopher dive into all the bells, whistles, and otherwise that come up in the complicated, messy, and very rewarding journey to putting down a story on paper and making it relatable, exciting, and new. They discuss the creative process, the need for writers to create empathy in their characters, the effect of social media on attention span, ‘theory of mind,’ the endless intricacies of Bangkok, ‘free will,’ and how curated content on the Internet constantly feeds us things we are already interested in. Christopher also gives us a preview of his latest nonfiction work Rooms , which explores the way that living indoors has transformed human psychology and culture over the last six thousand years. ‘Narrow’ would not be a good word to describe Christopher’s endlessly curious mind! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E42 · Tue, January 15, 2019

The Good, the Bad & the Embarrassing: Thai Maid Stories

In this episode, Greg and Ed discuss a very common issue among expats: how to find a good maid. While very common here, finding a maid is one of the most talked-about tasks when it comes to domestic logistics. The boys first frame the issue by pointing out that maids are much more common in Thailand than in the West and that many middle class people in Bangkok employ domestic help. Greg relates the awkwardness he felt while sitting around in his apartment while his maid cleaned because as a kid he was taught to always help out. Ed, on the other hand, admits he was pretty spoiled by his mother and sisters and that he jumped on the opportunity to get a maid as soon as he could. They discuss the difficulties in finding a good maid and trade embarrassing maid stories (most involving nudity). Greg eventually tells a friend’s ultimate uptight maid story, which you’ll have to listen to hear, but suffice it to say, if you have an adult movie collection, you might want to keep it under lock and key.   As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E41 · Tue, January 08, 2019

Yoga, Spirituality, and Meditation in Thailand with Marisa Cranfill

Ed welcomes back Marisa Cranfill, who was a guest on episode 61 of season 1 , where she educated Greg and Tony with her deep knowledge on Thai spirit houses . This time Marisa - a long-time Bangkok resident and noted expert in various styles of yoga and meditation - tells her story of studying abroad in China for university and finding the traditional Chinese practice of ‘qigong’ or life energy mastery, which gave her a whole new perspective on life. Since then, she has spent her time between Bangkok and San Diego, studying Ashtanga-Vinyasa yoga under teacher Adrian Cox at Yoga Elements Studio, as well as building her vipassana meditation practice with various teachers in Thailand and at the Little Bangkok Sangha . Marisa gives advice to beginners interested in yoga or meditation, stressing that the teacher is probably more important than the specific style, and she recommends two specific places in Bangkok: Yoga Elements Studio and the Little Bangkok Sangha. Marisa also explains her own unique integration of Yoga and Qigong into ‘Yoqi ,’ a form of yin-yang yoga that combines what Marisa has learned from her years of studying Hinduism, Buddhism and Taoism. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E40 · Tue, December 25, 2018

MAQE COO Drew Kamthong Talks Tech, Design & Management in Bangkok

This week Greg interviews Drew Kamthong of MAQE, a digital consultancy that started as a web design firm that has transformed into a full blown consulting agency for a myriad of digital solutions. Drew talks about some of the challenges companies face in Thailand, particularly when they implement modern management techniques such as Scrum and a workplace culture that rewards full transparency and merit-based promotions. Drew explains MAQE’s unique system of ‘guilds and crews’ to train and reward their people, the nuances of hiring (and employing) Thai and foreign staff, and the confusing process of applying for the coveted BOI status - and the benefits it brings - in the fast-paced tech industry. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E39 · Tue, December 18, 2018

Merry Christmas from the 'Kok!

It’s the annual Bangkok Podcast Christmas Blowout, with free gifts to all of our listeners! Well, that’s a complete lie, actually. But it IS Christmas, which means the boys feel compelled to discuss what it’s like to spend Christmas in Bangkok. From newbies experiencing their first working yuletide, to the sticky weather when it should be a winter wonderland, to most Thais shrugging their shoulders at the whole thing, Greg and Ed discuss how their own Christmas habits have evolved over the years, with Greg largely ignoring the holiday (with the exception of annually watching the film ‘Die Hard’) and Ed making efforts to keep it alive by having holiday dinners with friends and exchanging gifts with his wife and Thai in-laws. Greg does note though that as a new father he has re-discovered the holiday and made it a part of his young son’s life (although it’ll be a few years until he can watch Die Hard). The boys even throw in some speculative theology, from conspiracy theories about Jesus (India! France!) to the apparent similarities between his teachings and the Buddha’s, including a book on the topic by a very respected Buddhist monk from Vietnam. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E38 · Tue, December 11, 2018

The Expat Hassle of Keeping Old Friendships Alive

This week the guys address a common concern of long term expats: how best to keep in touch with family and friends back home. That is...if you want to. We’re lucky that modern technology such as Facebook and Skype make it technologically easy to keep in touch, but the simple fact of being 5,000 miles away makes it impossible to keep track of the minutiae (and sometimes even the broad strokes) of people’s lives. Both Greg and Ed admit that some triage is required; difficult choices must be made about who to keep in touch with and who to drop. But surprise! After Greg complains about a friend back home who doesn’t answer emails, Ed admits the he is that guy. Ed discusses his guilt over doing such a bad job maintaining relationships even though (in theory) modern technology should make it easier. Although the boys don’t come up with any perfect answer to this problem, they air some thoughts and advice about how not to alienate important people back home. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E37 · Tue, December 04, 2018

Community, Philanthropy, and Condoms with Mechai Varivaidya - Part Two

In Thailand, there are plenty of household names, but not many of them bring a smile and a twinkle to the eye the way that “Mechai” does. If you’re unfamiliar with Mechai Varivaidya, you’re missing out. Known as Mr. Condom, Mechai’s career began in the 1970s when he became famous for traveling around the country giving out condoms - a truly unconventional (even controversial) thing to do at the time. His tireless promotion of condoms, family planning, and community health have made him a household name in every corner of the Kingdom; indeed, if you ask for a “Mechai” in 7-11, you will be given a box of condoms - a distinction he’s thoroughly proud of. Khuh Mechai also founded the Population and Community Development Association (PDA), one of Thailand’s largest NGOs, twice served as a senator, as Minister of Tourism, and a number of other high profile private and governmental roles too numerous to list here. In 2007 the PDA was given the Gates Award by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in recognition of its pioneering work in family planning and AIDS prevention. In part two of our interview with Khun Mechai - delightfully feisty and sharp as a tack - he chats about the success of his family planning and AIDS prevention measures, his innovative education system known as the ‘Bamboo School’ initiative, and educates the guys over a handful of haggis potato chips. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E36 · Tue, November 27, 2018

Community, Philanthropy, and Condoms with Mechai Varivaidya - Part One

In Thailand, there are plenty of household names, but not many of them bring a smile and a twinkle to the eye the way that “Mechai” does. If you’re unfamiliar with Mechai Varivaidya, you’re missing out. Known as Mr. Condom, Mechai’s career began in the 1970s when he became famous for traveling around the country giving out condoms - a truly unconventional (even controversial) thing to do at the time. His tireless promotion of condoms, family planning, and community health have made him a household name in every corner of the Kingdom; indeed, if you ask for a “Mechai” in 7-11, you will be given a box of condoms - a distinction he’s thoroughly proud of. Khuh Mechai also founded the Population and Community Development Association (PDA), one of Thailand’s largest NGOs, twice served as a senator, as Minister of Tourism, and a number of other high profile private and governmental roles too numerous to list here. In 2007 the PDA was given the Gates Award by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation in recognition of its pioneering work in family planning and AIDS prevention. In part one of our interview with Khun Mechai - delightfully feisty and sharp as a tack - we chat about his condom nickname, how Thai culture’s views on sex and family have changed over the years, the best way to handle the ubiquity of porn, and how he got help from the Buddhist clergy to support his condom campaign. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E35 · Tue, November 20, 2018

Bangkok History Highlight: The Blue Diamond Affair

Continuing our series on interesting episodes in Thai history, this episode focuses on the infamous Blue Diamond Affair , It all started when a Thai gardener named Kriangkrai Techamon, who was working in Saudi Arabia, decided to make off with $20 million worth of gems and jewelry belonging to a Saudi royal. Although the thief was caught shortly after his return to Thailand, he had already sold much of the loot, including the famed 50 karat ‘Blue Diamond.’ No problem - the gems were returned to Saudi Arabia and an apology issued. Case closed! But ! Soon after the treasure was returned, Saudi authorities claimed that over half of the returned gems were fake, including the Blue Diamond. The Saudi authorities sent a special team of investigators to Bangkok to investigate...and what followed was a tale of murder, kidnapping, and black magic, with the ultimate result being a near-total diplomatic breakdown between the two countries that continues to this day. It’s a plot almost too twisty for Hollywood, but listen in for details on one of the strangest episodes in Thai history. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E34 · Wed, November 14, 2018

Insight Into Thailand's Burmese Refugees

Anyone familiar with Southeast Asia knows how complicated the issue of refugees is. Thailand, as the wealthiest country in the region, plays an important role in this. To gain some insight into things, Ed interviews Ploy Singthainiyom, an expert on refugees in Thailand. Ploy explains that she has worked in Bangkok, northern Thailand, and the United States on various refugee issues, focusing on Burmese refugees from the Karen minority who have fled into Thailand and live in camps near the border. She explains how the issue of paperwork, citizenship, and even formal recognition as refugees is not as clear cut as you may think, which leaves refugees in a kind of limbo with limited options. Indeed, most are not permitted to enter Thailand proper, but also do not want to return to Burma, which leaves the long and daunting road of applying for refugee status in a third country, such as the United States, their only viable option. Ploy talks about this long process and discusses some of the current problems facing the Thai government in addressing this complex issue. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Wed, November 07, 2018

Nov 16 Meetup

Hey guys, Greg here. I know this will only be of interest to some of you, but a few listeners pointed out that on the most recent show about our favorite farang food joints in Bangok, we said the upcoming meetup was on the 10th of November. Well, yes we did say that, but were VERY WRONG! The meetup is actually on Friday, 16th November at Smalls. You can find all the details on our Facebook page. Sorry about this short little podcastlet, but the next regular episode won't drop until after the 10th, so we wanted to make sure no one showed up on the wrong day. Sorry about the confusion, but if you're in town, we hope to see you on 16 November.

S3 E33 · Tue, November 06, 2018

Our Favorite Farang Food Joints in Bangkok

This week is a special on-location show at a Pizza Company restaurant in a highly secret, undisclosed location (to ensure the BP hosts are not mobbed by adoring fans), where Greg and Ed kick things off by daring to try the new ‘durian pizza.’ Alas, as anyone who listened to last week’s bonus show might know, neither Ed nor Greg are huge durian fans, so - what’s the verdict? You’ll have to listen to find out. The hosts then discuss the best places (in their not-so-humble opinions) to eat farang food in Bangkok, opinions accumulated over their nearly 40 combined years of living in Bangkok. Thai, Indian, Vietnamese, Chinese and and Japanese will all appear in a later episode, but pizza, burgers, Mexican, and Lebanese are all covered in great detail. From tiny little joins at the ass-end of long sois to bright, centrally located places known by many, it’s all in here. Did we miss some? Most certainly, but these are the ones that tide us over best when we jones for something other than Thai. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E32 · Tue, October 30, 2018

A Look at Bangkok's Contemporary Art Scene

To get some insight into Bangkok’s art scene, Greg interviews Nim Niyomsin, an independent art curator. She gives her views on the ups and downs of being an artist in a culture that is widely known as extremely creative, but which lacks the support and infrastructure other countries take for granted. For those not in the know, getting insight into the creative culture of Bangkok might seem difficult, but Nim says it’s really just a matter of putting a bit of research into it, and hitting the pavement. First stop - the BACC, where you can find resources, meet people, and pick up the all-important Bangkok art map . They also discuss how the lack of government support has pushed the artists to build their own support networks, how economics helps shape the community, and why 2018 - with the Bangkok Art Biennale and the Thailand Biennale , among other events - is a very important year in the continuing development of Thailand’s creative culture. This jives with the amazing art Greg saw at the Museum of Contemporary Art, and Nim agrees - the climate for Thai artists is improving, albeit slowly. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E31 · Tue, October 23, 2018

Neighborhood Focus: Victory Monument

The Victory Monument area of Bangkok is unique in that it combines the old - the monument itself is of a Thai victory against the French in WWII - and the new - the skytrain and multiple modern condo developments. Click here to see a great blog by Greg where you can compare old and new photos of the same area - including the Victory Monument, taken in 1946. Greg uses the compass to circle around Victory Monument, describing the various areas that surround the chaotic transport hub. One nearly universal theme is great street food, as an apparently unlimited number of Thais seem to live and work in the area. Another gem is of course Saxophone Pub, probably the most well known live music venue in all of Thailand (but check who’s playing before you go !). Just around the corner is Soi Rangnam, packed with street food, restaurants, condos, and a unique mix of both Thais and foreigners heading to dine, drink, see movies, and shop at the iconic King Power HQ - although you’re not allowed to leave with any of the merchandise you buy. It’s a duty-free thing...listen for details. All in all, Victory Monument may not be first on your list of places to check out in Bangkok, but if you want a great, local experience (usually meaning shopping, eating, and also eating), Victory Monument is a must-visit. And don’t forget to check out our friend Ivan’s Kickstarter page . Help him get his Thai-language book on English-language pronunciation into schools throughout Thailand! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E30 · Tue, October 16, 2018

Expat Insights: Owning a Restaurant in Bangkok

A common dream for many expats in Thailand is to open their own bar or restaurant. Ed interviews Matthew Fischer, a local restaurateur and bar owner, who has successfully started two bars in Bangkok - Fatty’s on Rama IX, and the Fat Tap off of Ekkamai. Matthew recounts the trials and tribulations that took Fatty’s from a mere whisper of an idea to a six-year Bangkok institution. But it certainly ain’t for everyone - Matthew’s tale is a cautionary one. Long hours in the kitchen, the stress of finding the right location, and the complications of working with your partner all present real (but surmountable) obstacles. Even with his success, he insists that bars are bad as pure investments - but there is a bright side: foreigners with a true passion can succeed at starting their own bar or restaurant in Thailand. Matthew has taken his Wisconsin cuisine of burgers and beers (and lots of cheese) and transplanted it to the other side of the world, giving Thais, expats, and tourists the taste of real, homegrown American food, all at a reasonable price. If you want to follow in Matthew’s path, just get ready to sweat. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E29 · Tue, October 09, 2018

Thai Ghost Stories: Myth and Terror

This week’s subject is the fascinating mythology of Thai ghosts, which, as anyone who has spent any time here knows, are a pretty big deal in Thai culture. In the west, ghosts and the supernatural are met with skepticism by most, so it’s easy to be dismissive. But Ed puts things in perspective by saying that Thailand’s ghost stories work better if you think of them like the mythology of Greek gods - huge, varied, and very creative. As someone who teaches a critical thinking class, Ed opines about urban vs rural belief stats, before both he and Greg get into some of the more interesting Thai ghosts (Ed’s favorite - creepy banana ghost. Greg’s favorite: floating head attached to intestines). No matter how you take it, Thai ghost mythology deserves heaps of appreciation for its sheer creativity and ties to Thai culture ancient and modern. If you want a crash course in understanding what makes Thailand different from other countries, start researching Thai ghosts! To get your started, here’s the trailer for a really creepy-looking Thai video game about ghosts, as well as this very funny commercial that shows how ubiquitous they are. Enjoy - but keep the lights on. :) As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E28 · Tue, October 02, 2018

Gay Rights in Thailand

Ed interviews Thanita ‘Ninar’ Wongprasert, a former UN employee and long time activist in the LGBTQI community in Thailand. Ninar talks about what it’s like to be gay in Thailand in general and points out that every individual’s experience is different. Ed and Ninar then discuss whether Thailand is liberal or conservative - and why such black & white classifications might be doing the pontificator and country a disservice. And speaking of disservice - given Thailand’s non-confrontational culture, it can sometimes be hard to determine whether gays are accepted  or just tolerated by Thailand’s  mai pen rai culture. Each person’s take will be different, of course, but Ninar points out that the government has traditionally been conservative and very reluctant to extend equal rights to the gay community. In the end, they discuss the somewhat ironic possibility that the current non-democratic military government may grant marriage rights to same sex couples before the expected elections early next year. Love is love, y’all. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E27 · Tue, September 25, 2018

Bangkok History Highlight: Phlaek Phibunsongkram

Greg and Ed try something new with the first in a series of episodes that look at interesting events in Bangkok’s history. For this one, they delve into one of Thailand’s most interesting personalities - Phlaek Phibunsongkram. Phlaek, or simply Phibun, was a military man who gained prominence as a member of the group that organized the 1932 coup that ended absolute monarchy in Thailand. Phibun was enamored with the fascist leaders of Europe and crafted a cult of personality around himself in Thailand. Along with his partner in crime Luang Wichitwathakan, or Wichit, Phibun led an ethno-nationalist movement designed to both define what it means to be ‘Thai’ and to modernize Thailand so that it could join the developing world. Consequently, Siam’s name was changed to ‘Thailand’ to make clear that a particular type of ancient Chinese immigrant was the true race of the country. But Phibun and Wichit also passed national ‘guidelines’ for using western silverware and even western clothing such as bowler hats for men - not to mention ordering the creation of Thailand’s signature dish, pad thai! The story only gets weirder and more complicated when the Japanese Army shows up on Thailand’s doorstep in the early days of WWII with an ultimatum for Phibun. In between there are coups, counter-coups, declarations of war, daring escapes, and crafty espionage stories that would be right at home in a Tom Clancy novel - with Phibun usually right in the middle of it all. Listen in to get the scoop on this thoroughly interesting Thai leader. Trust us - it’s hard to believe some of this even happened! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E26 · Tue, September 18, 2018

Insight into Bangkok’s Mobile Street Vendors

Greg interviews Kisnaphol “Keng” Wattanawanyoo , an expert in the informal aspects of urban life, and in the case of Bangkok, the plethora of mobile street vendors. While Bangkok is in a rush to modernize and clean up its streets, the mobile vendor subculture is alive and well - but for how long? Greg and Keng discuss where these folks come from, where they buy their merch, and explains the informal network they use to keep each other up to date, train new recruits, and mark their territory. Above all, they represent the best of the entrepreneurial nature of Thais, many of whom seem willing to travel long distances to set up their own businesses. However, Keng points out that the Thai government often takes a more negative view of the informal economy of Bangkok and see it as contributing to the chaos and disorder of the city - despite many (such as construction workers in the rapidly multiplying building projects) relying on them to get affordable, convenient food and supplies. Plus - Love, Loathe, or Leave - the ubiquitous Bangkok ice cream sandwich. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E25 · Tue, September 11, 2018

Permanent Residency in Thailand: Worth It?

Greg and Ed jump into the tricky issue of whether it is worth it for expats to gain permanent residency status in Thailand, also known as PR. It’s a good topic, because while Greg is still a stateless savage, Ed actually does have PR. So what is PR? Essentially, it’s a permanent visa that obviates the need to do border runs or 90 day reporting. But significantly, Thai PR does not include the right to work or the right to own property; plus, it can be expensive, at 195,000 baht for the those not married to a Thai, and 95,000 baht for those who are. Further, the application process is a bit of a nightmare and can take years to complete. So is it worth it? Greg and Ed debate this, while also discussing the positives, negatives, and unknowns of taking such a big step on the “I’m a legitimate farang living in Thailand” express train. Want to learn more? Here are a few links to get you started. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E24 · Tue, September 04, 2018

Author Patrick Winn on Organized Crime in Southeast Asia

The podcast is very pleased to welcome back journalist Patrick Winn , who previously appeared on the show in its very early days - episode 11 of season 1 , to be precise. Patrick recently authored a book called “Hello Shadowlands: Inside the Meth Fiefdoms, Rebel Hideouts, and Bomb-Scarred Party Towns of Southeast Asia” and the subject matter is as exciting as the title would suggest. Patrick discusses his time in Myanmar with gangs of militant Christians who kidnap drug addicts in an attempt to force them to go straight, his adventures in Vietnam with NVA veterans who ambush thugs stealing pet dogs for their meat, and violent gangs in the Philippines. Patrick also stresses the overwhelming size of the underworld dedicated to one drug - ‘ya baa’, a potent, cheap, mass-produced form of methamphetamine. Greg and Ed tease the details out of Patrick on how this criminal network affects Thailand and what the causes may be for the apparent increase in corrupt activities throughout Southeast Asia. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E23 · Tue, August 28, 2018

What Are People Asking Google About Thailand?

Google searches have become a treasure trove of information on modern cultures, and something that everyone from students to seniors use to find information. One interesting feature is Google’s autocomplete, which makes guesses on what you’re looking for based on what others are searching for. So what does Google’s autocomplete say about Thailand? Greg tries various combinations of Thailand-related questions, such as ‘Is Thailand...’ or ‘Will Bangkok . . .’ with results ranging from the mundane to the curiously fascinating - one even reminding Greg of this awesome short film called True Skin   that takes place in Bangkok's near-future. Searchers seemed concerned about everything from safety in Thailand and whether Bangkok is sinking, to the cave boys story and the prevalence of the zika virus in the Land of Smiles. The results seem to mirror Thailand’s reputation as a country of great contrast, complexity, and to some extent, weirdness. Also, to the person searching for “is Thailand hotel?” Bravo. Bravo. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E22 · Tue, August 21, 2018

Endangered Languages & Evolving Thai with Linguist Rikker Dockum

What if you got into a time machine and jumped forward a few hundred years, only to discover when you arrived that no one spoke your language anymore? It’s happened plenty of times (not the time machine thing, but languages dying out), so we wondered...could it happen to Thai? Greg interviews friend of the show Rikker Dockum , a linguist finishing his PhD at Yale, who has been doing research in northwest Burma on a local dialect that is part of the same family of languages as Thai. After discussing this unusual dialect, Greg and Rikker chat about the modern Thai language and how it has slowly splintered and changed over time, including a few interesting tidbits into why Thais call Google ‘Uncle Goo’ and why the Thai translation of the Forrest Gump novel used a very specific spelling of a particular word. To wrap it up, Rikker gives us his thoughts on ‘language death’ and what role the forces of globalization and modern technology play. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

Bonus · Fri, August 17, 2018

Jobs You Can’t Do, and Drugs You Can (Maybe)

Just for a bit of fun, we're releasing this week's bonus episode for all our listeners! Patrons of the Bangkok Podcast get the regular show + a bonus show every week. To learn more, go to  https://www.patreon.com/bangkokpodcast Greg and Ed - still trying to digest the news from last week’s show with attorney Jerrold Kippen - discuss the significance of the (hopeful) changes to Thailand’s work permit laws. Just for a bit of fun, Greg also goes through the professions prohibited to foreigners, realizing that most seem to center around protected Thai cultural arts and crafts - although there are a few surprises in the list (gem polishers! Architects!). And to wrap the show up, the boys address the news that the National Legislative Assembly is considering legalizing medical marijuana (!), which (if it comes to pass) would make Thailand the first country in Asia to do so (!!).  

S3 E21 · Tue, August 14, 2018

Neighborhood Focus - Ari

Another in our continuing series on Bangkok’s coolest and most notable places to live or visit! This week we focus on the Ari neighborhood, which roughly surrounds the Ari BTS station. Greg recounts the four years he lived in the neighborhood and shares a few insights into what makes it unique. Ed also ponders is demographic makeup - a lot of educated expats living and hanging out right next to working class Thais, patrons of upscale eateries, craft beer bars, and hole-in-the-wall joints that cater to all. While condo prices are high due to the central location, the bars, restaurants, and art galleries more than justify an exploratory afternoon or evening. With a ton of back sois, a great street food scene, and hipster sensibilities (though not too much of that, yet), Ari should be on the list of any expat seeking to explore Bangkok beyond the tourist areas. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E20 · Tue, August 07, 2018

Thai Work Permits: What Just Changed?

If you’ve even a passing interest in living in Thailand, you’ve likely heard of the recent changes to the Kingdom’s work permit laws - the legal requirements of being employed here there are written in stone which, it turns out, are not written in stone. Greg interviews Jerrold Kippen of the law firm of Duensing Kippen about these changes, which were highlighted in a recent article his firm wrote . It’s big news! Traditionally, Thai work permits for foreigners were interpreted very narrowly, meaning individuals were legally allowed to only work the exact job, in the exact capacity, and at the exact address specified in their work permit. Jerrold discusses a recent change that has sent shockwaves through Thailand’s expat community: it appears that changes to the labor laws mean that once an expat has a valid work permit, he or she will also be able to work any other type of job at any location, as long as that work is not specifically prohibited under Thai law. Greg and Jerrold discuss the significance of the change, what it means for the average Joe, and if it portends an overall liberalization of the employment laws here in Thailand, which would be a great relief for many.   As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E19 · Tue, July 31, 2018

Trainspotting: The Past, Present & Future of Rail Travel in Thailand [Season 3, Episode 19]

This week your intrepid hosts discuss all manner of rail travel in Bangkok and beyond, and the role that the train system plays in Thai society. For most foreigners rail is a convenient alternative, but for many Thais (and others throughout the world), it’s the only option, leading to some interesting financial, logistical, and economic repercussions. Greg and Ed also trade stories of riding the overnight train to Chiang Mai and other rail adventures they’ve had over the years, and then discuss the meat of the issue - the massive new train station in Bang Sue, as well as several high speed train lines emanating from Bangkok to both the north and south. What’s clear is that once the Bang Sue terminal is completed, rail travel in Thailand will look a hell of a lot different than it does now. For more info, check out Greg’s super-cool Bangkok rail projection map here , and also head to Nomadic Notes for a wider look at all of Asia’s proposed rail routes . But no matter what happens, the boys conclude that as long as speed is not super important, rail travel in Thailand is both affordable and enjoyable, and definitely worth checking out by expats and tourists alike. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E18 · Tue, July 24, 2018

Unique Perspectives: Thailand's Third Culture Kids

What do you do if the culture you grew up in isn’t your own - or even your parents’? You adapt, dammit, and become what’s known as a Third Culture Kid , or TCK, if you’re cool. Ed interviews his recently graduated student Mook Ishimura, a half-Thai, half-Japanese ‘third culture kid,’ who is a Thai citizen but who grew up mostly in the United States and Indonesia before moving to Thailand for university. They discuss the rather unusual situation of feeling LESS comfortable in your ‘passport country’ than in another culture - in Mook’s case, American culture. Mook recounts the difficulty of studying in a western classroom her whole life, only to begin university in an international program in Thailand, mostly with Thai students coming out of the Thai school system. In an increasingly cosmopolitan city like Bangkok, Mook demonstrates that not everyone fits neatly into the ‘native’ box or the ‘expat’ box. We think this is a great asset to any city or country - after all, variety is the spice of life, and TCKs are nothing if not varied. And spicy. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E17 · Tue, July 17, 2018

The Risks and Rewards of Biking in Bangkok

On this episode, Master Yoda Biker Greg counsels young padawan Ed in the ways of biking in Bangkok, focusing either on the casual rider looking for some exercise or adventure, the commuter looking for a way through Bangkok’s notoriously bad traffic (and unreliable BTS!), or the adventurer looking to blaze new trails (for an example of this, see this week’s episode artwork of Greg’s good friend Paul exploring a new trail). Greg and Ed discuss all the important points of biking in Bangkok - safety, directions, equipment, and more, plus a discussion on how (most) Thai drivers are actually very aware of their surroundings, providing a surprisingly stress-free ride, if you happen to be riding in traffic (there’s a million disclaimers on this, but that’s Greg’s take, anyway). Greg also runs through some of the obstacles thrown up by the Bangkok government - such as no bikes allowed on the skytrain, or bike paths that are build and then abandoned - that can make it difficult to bike in the city. However, in the end, the guys stress that biking is a GREAT way to appreciate the charm of the sprawling, chaotic metropolis of Bangkok. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E16 · Tue, July 10, 2018

Talking With Phra Pandit: What's Up With Buddhist Novices?

Have you ever seen those little kids walking around a temple dressed as monks? Well guess what - they ARE monks! Sort of. Mostly. Well, probably more than you are, anyway. Definitely more than we are. On this episode, Greg talks to perennial BP favorite Phra Pandit - a real, actual monk - about Thai novices, which is what not-yet-monks are called in Thailand. Pandit explains the origin of the 'novice’ concept and how children in Thailand are often placed in temples due to family or behavioral issues. Phra Pandit notes that the system is not perfect - the young boys are expected to follow the Buddhist precepts and cannot play football or computer games or have relationships with girls - but that the system somehow 'works’ in that the lives of countless young boys seem to be improved over time and many adults look back fondly on their time as novices. So what happens when the boys grow up and maybe decide they don’t want to be monks anymore? A lot of things, actually, and Phra Pandit explains some of the many roads these young men can take. Whatever happens, the novice system has proven its worth to Thai society over the decades by helping troubled kids learn discipline and how to adjust to being an adult. And just to shake things up again, we play another round of Word Association, where Greg challenges Ed to come up with off-the-cuff replies to random Bangkok-based phrases he throws out. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E15 · Tue, July 03, 2018

Neighborhood Focus: Ekkamai

As all expats know, Bangkok is a gigantic, sprawling metropolis, but it does contain dozens of identifiable neighborhoods, each with its own personality, vibe, and reasons to go (or not to go) for a visit. On this show, the guys dive into the Ekkamai area, the long, skinny section that stretches from Sukhumvit to Petchaburi along Sukhumivit Soi 63. Not only does this include Soi Ekkamai proper, but also the many side sois that snake and wind and tumble west, toward Thong Lor, and east, toward Sukhumvit 71, which hide great apartments, cool coffee shops, and other little surprises. Greg and Ed go over some of their favorite places to eat, drink, and shop, while also discussing how Ekkamai fits into the big puzzle of Bangkok. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E14 · Tue, June 26, 2018

Teaching Critical Thinking in Thailand

In a culture where most people have seen ghosts, visit fortune tellers, and where questioning authority is kind of, sort of, not really cool, critical thinking may seem like a foreign concept. However, we happen to have an expert on hand - our own Ed “The Truth” Knuth, who teaches a critical thinking class as part of his university course. On the surface, it may seem that Thais are worse at thinking critically than westerners, but Ed explains that (at least in his opinion), it really depends on what people think about. If Thais are good at math and engineering, that means they have the faculties to think critically. Greg points out that the issue is fraught with cultural obstacles, such as the need to constantly respect authority. This is undoubtedly true, but Ed tells a few stories about how enthusiastically his students jump into his course, starting with a discussion about bigfoot and ending with a critical analyses of the fortunes that each student got done at the beginning of the semester. So the seed is planted...but even Ed can’t hazard a guess as to how much of these skills stick around after the semester is over.   The boys also get to Love, Loathe, or Leave, discussing those...pantaloon...diaper...things that are part of the traditional Thai outfit. We’re not ruining anything by saying neither Greg nor Ed look good in these - but what do they think of them when not wrapped in silky goodness? As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E13 · Tue, June 19, 2018

How Has Bangkok Changed Us? [Season 3, Episode 13]

Something a little different this week - a host swap! Greg is joined by co-host Scott Coates, one of his oldest friends in Thailand. Scott co-hosts the Talk Travel Asia podcast with Trevor Ranges, and, if you head over there, you will be able to hear The Bangkok Podcast’s other host, Ed “The Truth” Knuth, co-hosting a show with Trevor. Everything will be back to normal next week, but we thought a bit of crossover action would be fun. (And in case you’re wondering, the artwork for this week’s episode is Greg and Scott during a mountain bike ride in Cambodia in 2010). For this show, Greg and Scott thought that they’d chat a bit about how, as long-term expats, Bangkok has changed them personally. From living as a minority, to learning to calm down and “out-Thai the Thais”, to getting a close-up look at social stratification and widespread poverty, no one can spend any significant amount of time here without changing at least a lil’ bit on the inside. Greg’s last point is that living in Thailand has taught him about his own resilience and resourcefulness, having to overcome all the obstacles of life as an expat. Scott concludes somewhat philosophically that there is beauty in the imperfections of Bangkok life; that the chaos itself gives Bangkok a unique character, and that clean and organized is not always better. Deep stuff! As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E12 · Tue, June 12, 2018

Talking Overtourism With Stuart McDonald from Travelfish.org [Season 3, Episode 12]

From a cute lil’ gazebo on the rooftop of a newly-renovated hotel in Chinatown, Greg, Ed, and Stuart from Travelfish.org jump into the complex issue of “overtourism” in Thailand. Beginning with a definition of the term (roughly when the number of tourists exceeds the capacity of the existing infrastructure to properly service them), Stuart describes the situation in a number of popular tourist destinations in Thailand. It’s a tricky subject - if one destination starts to get a bit too touristy, does this then mean that tourists (and expats in Thailand) should re-route their trips to lesser known destinations? Stuart thinks it’s a good idea, pointing out that in recent decades, tourist destinations in Thailand have actually gotten less diverse, as more regional options open up and compete for the almighty tourist dollar. The guys then discuss other possible solutions to the problem, but all three express doubts about the Thai government’s willingness to sacrifice short term tourist numbers for long term preservation of Thailand’s position in the world of tourism. What do you think? As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E11 · Tue, June 05, 2018

Finding the Groove: Live Music in Bangkok

We start off with some good news! Throwing back to episode 2.18 and guest Sawang Srisom, a disabled rights activist, Greg is happy to report that the city just gave a huge chunk of change to to the BTS so that they can finally add elevators to all stations! Really, it’s about time - Bangkok’s disabled facilities are embarrassingly unsuitable. Greg and Ed then get into the meat of the show - live music in Bangkok. After lamenting the scene compared to the U.S. and Canada, they chat about some of their favorite spots in Bangkok and give some recommendations. Greg pushes perennial podcast go-tos AdHere on Samsen as well as Brown Sugar on Phra Sumen, although he doesn’t have a very big list of favorites beyond that (having a kid will do that to you). Ed discusses the various ‘scenes’ in Bangkok from Thai pop, to indie, to jazz bars at high-end hotels. And - as an actual musician without child - Ed gives a much more comprehensive list of favorites than Greg: Soul Bar in Chinatown, Apoteka on Soi 11, and Nothing But the Blues on Thong Lor. And when it comes to finding gig info online, it’s thankfully not the desert it used to be. Ed suggests Live Music Tonight , and Greg recommends E7BKKLive . Ed finishes his list with a shout out to Check Inn 99 on Sukhumvit 33 for its jazz jam, and Greg reminds everybody about Bangkok institution Saxophone Pub at Victory Monument. Both agree that although the live music scene in Bangkok may not be world class, plenty of great music is out there if you are willing to look for it. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E10 · Tue, May 29, 2018

Reverse Culture Shock with Evo Terra

Greg welcomes former co-host Evo Terra back to the podcast after his repatriation to the good old U.S.A. Evo describes his new life in Phoenix and his many adjustments, including trying to drive on the right (that is, not left) side of the road. He also recounts the difficulty of finding a furnished apartment at a reasonable price and laments the relatively decent cost of living in the City of Angels (Thai version). Shopping for food has also been a challenge, due to the fact that Evo actually knows what everything is, and hence, takes forever to decide what he wants. Luckily, he found an Asian market and stocked up on all the spices he fell in love with in Thailand, including the foul effluent known as ‘fish sauce.’ Greg then walks Evo through the 9 factors that determine the seriousness of reverse culture shock to see how many he’s faced, and talks about other strange things, like understanding what everyone is saying, and the surprising ways he’s able to use Thai, Khmer, and even Mandarin in Phoenix. Finally, Evo reminisces a bit with a list of what he really misses in Bangkok - but you’ll have to listen to hear it. :) Greg and Ed then experiment with a new segment, Word Association, where Ed reveals the true darkness in the depth of his personality as he spontaneously reacts to Greg’s word queries. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E9 · Tue, May 22, 2018

The Good, the Bad, the Cuddly: Raising a Kid in Bangkok [Season 3, Episode 9]

Episode links: My interview with the guys at This Strange Life podcast https://soundcloud.com/this_strange_life/tsl04-tsl04-from-surviving-to-thriving-in-bangkok-with-greg-from-the-bangkok-podcast Bangkok may be great for the childless among us, but what about those expats who want to raise a family here? As a married guy without kids, Ed questions Greg about the pros and cons of being a parent in Bangkok. The conversation starts with a peek into the insane cost and stress of deciding which school the little angels/devils will attend, where tuition can sometimes hit $20,000 per year for first grade (coughINSANEcough). Unsurprisingly, it’s one of the top factors in deciding how long - or even if - an expat family will stay here. And yes, that’s Greg’s kid on the episode artwork, cunningly disguised as Batman. But thankfully for the bags under Greg’s eyes, there are lots of other stress points to having a kid in Bangkok! These range from the difficulty of building a social circle, how to approach language learning, and what the hell you can (and can’t) actually DO with a kid in Bangkok. Greg also shares a bit about the difficulties in making sure his spawn grows up understanding the Canuck-ness of his Canadian side, and reminisces about the wistful days of yesteryear when he was told to “go outside and play and come back for dinner,” which you definitely can’t do with a kid in Bangkok. In “Love, Loathe, or Leave,” Greg challenges Ed with the quirky way (seemingly all) Thai cashiers return change, with both agreeing that the most annoying part of the habit is the insistence on giving small receipts for every purchase, something that the late, great Mitch Hedberg summed up perfectly . As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, o

S3 E8 · Tue, May 15, 2018

Stu Jay Raj: The Inside Story of Thai Vowels [Season 3, Episode 8]

Key links for this show: StuJay.com Hey, do you know the difference between ใ and ไ? What about เ and แ? Well, we sort of do, but you know who really does? This week’s guest, Stu Jay Raj. What started as a simple question from Greg to Stu about Thai vowels gets turned around as Stu - noted linguist, polyglot, and all around swell dude - starts asking questions of Greg, slowly revealing a method of thinking about Thai vowels that isn’t so obvious. Thai language learners will be mouthing along with Stu as he delves into the very DNA of the base sounds that make up most Thai vowel combinations. Not only that, you’ll begin to understand the very important connection in the Thai language between what a vowel sounds like, and the position your mouth, throat, and tongue need to be in to arrive at the correct sound. Also, did you know that the Thai language is abugida? We didn’t even know that word existed until this show, but Stu gives us a crash course on what it means. In Love, Loathe, or Leave, Ed - Mr. Taxi himself - asks Greg what he thinks of one of the oldest tricks in the book for taxi drivers to squeeze a bit of extra money from their fares...and whether or not it’s always a scam, or sometimes just a bit of bad luck. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E7 · Tue, May 08, 2018

Bangkok Life Advice We’d Give Our Younger Selves

Greg and Ed have each been in Thailand for more than 15 years, and along the way have done a lot of things right - but also a lot of things wrong. So in the spirit of the almighty do-over, they each thought of three pieces of advice they would give to their early Thailand selves. First of all, the boys skip the obvious piece of advice - learn Thai - which should be #1 on the list of everyone planning to spend more than 6 month here. From there they get into the nitty-gritty - from dating advice to how to avoid stressing out over Thai politics, to leaving Bangkok in the rearview, to making a point to visit some of its lesser-known cultural resources, Greg and Ed think of a few important points that would have made their early Thailand experience not so much better , but possibly richer and more rewarding. And in this week’s Love, Loathe, or Leave, Greg asks Ed his thoughts on the weak, bendy, nearly useless forks and spoons at Thai food courts (and, most frustratingly, in Greg’s kitchen). It’s safe to say neither loves them, but listen in for some musings on why, exactly, Thais put up with such lame cutlery. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E6 · Tue, May 01, 2018

Phra Pandit: Symbolism & Ceremony at Thai Funerals

You may remember a month ago Greg and Ed invited our wonderful listeners to write in with details on how long they have been living in Thailand. Listen in to hear the boys discuss the results - or if you’re more disposed to pretty colors, check out the neat-o pie chart on the website .   Greg then begins a conversation about Thai funerals with frequent podcast guest Phra Pandit, a British-born Buddhist monk here in Thailand. Greg notes that Thai funerals seem to be less serious and emotional than funerals back home, and Phra Pandit points out that Thai funerals are typically stretched out over several days, somewhat muting the emotional intensity of the event. Pandit also stresses that many of the rituals seen at Thai funerals are not set in stone, and there is considerable variety in the specifics of each funeral - like throwing coins (really), knocking on coffins (really), and man-handling a corpse into a more convenient position for funeral rites (yikes...really). Greg also gets schooled on why reincarnation in Buddhism is not thought of as a good thing, because one never knows in what situation one might be reborn, and any merit that can be done at the funeral in honor of the deceased might tip the karma balance in your favor. Finally, Pandit gives us a few somewhat humorous (but also pretty gruesome) behind-the-scenes rituals and, uh... manual chores that one must do to make sure a funeral goes off as planned. For Love, Loathe, or Leave, Ed challenges Greg to say anything good about inappropriately loud music at Thai markets and malls, but Greg admits he hates it - though not enough to flee the Land of Smiles.   As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E5 · Tue, April 24, 2018

Neighborhood Focus: Banglamphu

Continuing with a series started in season 2 on some of Bangkok’s more interesting neighborhoods, the boys discuss one of their favorites: Banglamphu. But before they can chat about that, exactly what is Banglamphu? It’s not an official district, but it’s probably best known for Khao San Road, with its borders hitting Ratchadamnoen in the south, the river to the west, north to Krung Kasem Canal, and east to Ratchadamnoen Nok. Not a huge chunk of land. Is Banglamphu a good place to live, or just to visit? Despite the area being dominated by hotels, guesthouses, and hostels, there are still some good places to hang your hat - you just need to know where to look. (Hint: try just across the river for a steep drop in price) The guys then wrestle with the elephant in the room (so to speak), by discussing Khao San Road. Awesome party road with bars and shopping, or awful hippie ghetto with gross “Thai” food? It’s pretty subjective, but both Ed and Greg agree - don’t eat the scorpions. All of this, plus a few personal favorite restaurants, live music venues, and tips on avoiding the madness of being stuck in a taxi as you try to get in or out of sweet, sweet Banglamphu. In ‘Love, Loathe, or Leave,’ Greg queries Ed on the metal, clanging change boxes carried by money collectors on buses and boats throughout the city. What are they for? What do they do? Why are they so loud? As with most things in Bangkok, it probably makes a lot more sense than it appears on first look. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E4 · Tue, April 17, 2018

Hot Thai Kitchen: Bringing Home-Cooked Thai Food to the World [Season 3, Episode 4]

Useful links: The Surprising Reason There Are So Many Thai Restaurants in America Hot Thai Kitchen We’re happy to have Pailin Chongchitnant as our guest this week, creator and host of Hot Thai Kitchen , a popular YouTube channel based in Vancouver, Canada that shows people how to cook delicious Thai food recipes in their kitchens. A handful of places - Italy, Japan, Vietnam, India - have food that’s so tied to their culture that the food itself is somewhat of an ambassador, and Thailand is no exception. The question then becomes how much Thai culture can a foreigner absorb simply by watching how the national cuisine is prepared? Pailin also gives some insight into how Thai food is perceived overseas & how “hipster Thai” joints are taking over, and describes how she comes up with ideas for shows. She also describes some of the insane ways foreigners try to give their native food a Thai spin by splashing peanut sauce on it - or even using - (ugh) - peanut butter! And in a post-interview email that Greg reads, Pailin also weighs in on a recent article describing how the Thai government helps Thai nationals overseas open Thai restaurants, which may or may not help the cause, depending on how passionate the owner is about “real” Thai food. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE  accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E3 · Sat, April 07, 2018

Wet & Mild: Songkran New Year Spectacular [Season 3, Episode 3]

Ahhh, Songkran, a waterfight so insane that people in other countries know all about it. Love it or hate it, it’s THE holiday on the Thai calendar, and unless you’ve got a (probably damp) ticket in your (probably damp) little hands, it’s hard to avoid. Greg starts off showing how poorly he can recollect the origins of Songkran off the top of his head, before he and Ed discuss the infamous “Ministry of Culture Gets Pissed at Topless Dancing Girls” episode of Songkran 2011, which left people alternately laughing, livid, or losing face. (Read Kaewmala’s excellent insight into that episode here , and a NY Times story here ) Ed also shares his belief that Songkran might be the perfect Thai holiday, where old and new, conservative and liberal, and reserved and raucous clash in the most Thai of ways. You’ll also get to hear them recollect stories about friends getting soaked despite not wanting to, how a pitcher of beer was poured over Greg’s head one year, and why two (now)-jaded dudes might head out again this year just to see what’s up. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE  accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E2 · Tue, April 03, 2018

Going Vegan in Bangkok: Hopeless or Delicious?

Going vegetarian in Bangkok has always struck Greg as somewhat of an inconvenience - I mean, how many vegetarian street food stalls do you know? But guess who’s been on a full-on vegan diet for the past year? That’s right, Ed. And guess who is going to give Greg some insight on actually how easy it is to be a vegetarian in Bangkok? Well...yes, of course, also Ed. You’ve been here before, I see. Ed - a noted vegan - dishes a bit on what he thinks of the politics and clique-iness of strict diets, as well as the role that religion may play for some people, while Greg - a noted carnivore - recollects a few tales of searching for food in Bangkok with vegan friends. Let’s just say it wasn’t his favorite dining experience. We also spin up Love, Loathe or Leave, where Ed wants to hear Greg’s thought on the (ongoing...maybe?) effort to clean food vendors off of Bangkok’s sidewalks. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE  accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S3 E1 · Sun, March 25, 2018

Bangkok Then & Now...and in the Future

Welcome back! For the first show of season 3, Greg introduces you to the new co-host of the Bangkok Podcast, Ed “The Truth” Knuth. Together they have a combined 35 years in the Big Mango, so they reminisce a bit about what the city was like when they first got here, how it compares to now, and what they think the city will look like in 10 or 20 years. Purely based on conjecture, of course, they have no real experience with this, but since when has making uneducated predictions been a bad idea? One of the things Greg and Ed discuss is the future of Bangkok's train network - click here to see a map that Greg made that shows what Bangkok will (hopefully) look like in 10 or so years. We also thank Patreon supporter Mike Herrin, who hides his steamy real life Bangkok adventures behind a veil of boring office work. And don’t worry about losing one of the favorite parts of the show - Greg surprises Ed with a Love, Loathe, or Leave that has to do with motorbike taxi drivers who might be trying to kidnap you...or just simply random dudes trying to make a few extra baht. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get early access, bonus shows, and special swag. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE  accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S2 E72 · Tue, February 27, 2018

Bye Bye Bangkok: Season Two Finale

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent="no" equal_height_columns="no" menu_anchor="" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" background_color="" background_image="" background_position="center center" background_repeat="no-repeat" fade="no" background_parallax="none" enable_mobile="no" parallax_speed="0.3" video_mp4="" video_webm="" video_ogv="" video_url="" video_aspect_ratio="16:9" video_loop="yes" video_mute="yes" video_preview_image="" border_size="" border_color="" border_style="solid" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" padding_top="" padding_right="" padding_bottom="" padding_left=""][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type="1_3" layout="1_3" spacing="" center_content="no" hover_type="none" link="" min_height="" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" background_color="" background_image="" background_position="left top" background_repeat="no-repeat" border_size="0" border_color="" border_style="solid" border_position="all" padding="" dimension_margin="" animation_type="" animation_direction="left" animation_speed="0.3" animation_offset="" last="no"][fusion_imageframe image_id="4773" style_type="dropshadow" stylecolor="" hover_type="zoomin" bordersize="" bordercolor="" borderradius="" align="center" lightbox="no" gallery_id="" lightbox_image="" alt="" link="" linktarget="_self" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" animation_type="slide" animation_direction="left" animation_speed="1.0" animation_offset=""]http://www.bangkokpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/BKP-72-EPISODE-LOGO-big-500x500.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][fusion_separator style_type="none" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" sep_color="" top_margin="" bottom_margin="30px" border_size="" icon="" icon_circle="" icon_circle_color="" width="" alignment="center" /][fusion_imageframe image_id="4621" style_type="dropshadow" stylecolor="" hover_type="zoomin" bordersize="" bordercolor="" borderradius="" align="none" lightbox="no" gallery_id="" lightbox_image="" alt="" link="http://www.bangkokpodcast.com/support" linktarget="_blank" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" animation_type="fade" animation_direction="left" animation_speed="1.0" animation_offset=""]http://www.bangkokpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/support-button.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][fusion_separator style_type="none" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" sep_color="" top_margin="" bottom_margin="30px" border_size="" icon="" icon_circle="" icon_circle_color="" width="" alignment="center" /][fusion_imageframe image_id="4199" style_type="dropshadow" stylecolor="" hover_type="zoomin" bordersize="" bordercolor="" borderradius="" align="none" lightbox="no" gallery_id="" lightbox_image="" alt="" link="http://thaifaq.libsyn.com/rss" linktarget="_blank"

S2 E71 · Tue, February 20, 2018

Investing In Thailand: Risk & Reward with Andrew Stotz

Though various types of pestilence plagued all of your hosts, two of of us managed to muster the necessary strength to record the episode this week. You’re welcome. (Hi again, Ed!) We’ve a special guest on this week that anyone into in finance in Bangkok probably knows, Mr. Andrew Stotz , Ph.D. He’s an award-winning equity analyst, the current President of the CFA Society Thailand, and the founder and CEO of A. Stotz Investment Research. Prior to that he spent 20 years working global investment banks in Asia, and has been a university lecturer in finance for more than two decades. Voted the #1 investor in Thailand by his peers several times over, he's also a co-founder of CoffeeWORKS Co. Ltd., Thailand’s specialty coffee roaster. He and Greg chat about investing in Thailand at the lay-person level, since many of us aren’t the most well-versed in financial options. And for Love, Loathe, or Leave, comes from listener Other Ed. He wants to know how we feel about ไม่เป็นไร. If you don’t recognize the script, you’ve almost certainly heard it spoken if you’ve spent any time in Thailand and things haven’t gone according plan. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE  accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S2 E70 · Tue, February 13, 2018

Neighborhood Focus: Thonburi, the Original Bangkok

Key links for this episode: Map of Thonburi On the first show in our new series that digs into some of Bangkok’s better-known ‘hoods, we ask: did you know that Bangkok (that is, Thailand’s modern capital) is not the original Bangkok? Nope! The first Bangkok (that is, the new capital after Ayutthaya was thrashed by the Burmese) was a little town called Thonburi. But, that didn’t last long. Another little village called Bangkok became the new, new capital and Thonburi became a sleepy suburb. But after only 236 years, Thonburi is about to step into the limelight in a big way. How, you ask? Malls! Trains! Hotels! Markets! Craft beer! And...cable cars? But before we get into that, we need to thank ErQing Hui, our latest patron at the show shoutout level (who we simply call EQ (because we’re not that good with Chinese), as well as Han Choi, who became our 50th patron and will be rewarded with one (or more!) snazzy postcards. As always, the podcast will continue to be 100% funded by listeners just like you who get some special swag from us. And we’ll keep our Facebook , Twitter , and LINE  accounts active so you can send us comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S2 E69 · Tue, February 06, 2018

What's Next for Season 3 of the Bangkok Podcast?

[fusion_builder_container hundred_percent="no" equal_height_columns="no" menu_anchor="" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" background_color="" background_image="" background_position="center center" background_repeat="no-repeat" fade="no" background_parallax="none" enable_mobile="no" parallax_speed="0.3" video_mp4="" video_webm="" video_ogv="" video_url="" video_aspect_ratio="16:9" video_loop="yes" video_mute="yes" video_preview_image="" border_size="" border_color="" border_style="solid" margin_top="" margin_bottom="" padding_top="" padding_right="" padding_bottom="" padding_left=""][fusion_builder_row][fusion_builder_column type="1_3" layout="1_3" spacing="" center_content="no" hover_type="none" link="" min_height="" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" background_color="" background_image="" background_position="left top" background_repeat="no-repeat" border_size="0" border_color="" border_style="solid" border_position="all" padding="" dimension_margin="" animation_type="" animation_direction="left" animation_speed="0.3" animation_offset="" last="no"][fusion_imageframe image_id="4746" style_type="dropshadow" stylecolor="" hover_type="zoomin" bordersize="" bordercolor="" borderradius="" align="center" lightbox="no" gallery_id="" lightbox_image="" alt="" link="" linktarget="_self" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" animation_type="slide" animation_direction="left" animation_speed="1.0" animation_offset=""]http://www.bangkokpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/02/BKP69-EPISODE-LOGO-big-500x500.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][fusion_separator style_type="none" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" sep_color="" top_margin="" bottom_margin="30px" border_size="" icon="" icon_circle="" icon_circle_color="" width="" alignment="center" /][fusion_imageframe image_id="4621" style_type="dropshadow" stylecolor="" hover_type="zoomin" bordersize="" bordercolor="" borderradius="" align="none" lightbox="no" gallery_id="" lightbox_image="" alt="" link="http://www.bangkokpodcast.com/support" linktarget="_blank" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" animation_type="fade" animation_direction="left" animation_speed="1.0" animation_offset=""]http://www.bangkokpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/12/support-button.jpg[/fusion_imageframe][fusion_separator style_type="none" hide_on_mobile="small-visibility,medium-visibility,large-visibility" class="" id="" sep_color="" top_margin="" bottom_margin="30px" border_size="" icon="" icon_circle="" icon_circle_color="" width="" alignment="center" /][fusion_imageframe image_id="4199" style_type="dropshadow" stylecolor="" hover_type="zoomin" bordersize="" bordercolor="" borderradius="" align="none" lightbox="no" gallery_id="" lightbox_image="" alt="" link="http://thaifaq.libsyn.com/rss" linktarget="_blank"

S2 E68 · Tue, January 30, 2018

Why Do People Keep Coming Back to Bangkok?

Key links for this episode: Nomadic Matt Plume App Our patrons know a secret. You can know it, too. One of the OG travel bloggers, Matt Kepnes, AKA Nomadic Matt, joins the program with all kinds of stories, tips, and reflections on travel on his site NomadicMatt.com . He even has a NYTimes best-selling book on how to travel the world on a budget! He's a hard guy to pin down, but he recently came through town on his way to New Zealand, and he very kindly let Greg to discuss an important question: Why do people (him included!) keep coming back to Bangkok? Speaking of catching up with friends, but on a much sadder note… the Bangkok expat community is a little smaller and sadder, with the recent passing of Eric Seldin. He was funny, warm, entertaining, and wise, and always had a good story to tell from his decades of working around Asia. In his memory, go spend some quality time with those you love but haven’t caught up with recently, OK? You are flat out not going to like this week’s Love, Loathe, or Leave. And not just because of the topic -- Bangkok’s insidious air pollution that’s just getting worse. No, it’s one of our answers. Sorry in advance. :( And before we go: Remember that we’re 100% funded by our supporters , who get some special swag from us. Hit us up on Facebook , Twitter , or LINE with comments, questions, or whatever you want to share.

S2 E67 · Tue, January 23, 2018

Thailand Island Vacation Realities Exposed

Support us and get cool stuff ! The thought of spending a few days on an island in Thailand sounds about as close to paradise as a westerner can get: blue water, white sand, the works! But the reality of it is a little different than the picture in your mind, and you might want to adjust your expectations a bit when visiting an island in Thailand. And speaking of Thailand as a great vacation destination, we really do want to meet you when you come through Bangkok. Please reach out and we’ll see if we can get our schedules to align so we can grab a beer, coffee, or even a meal together. We love it! Of course, we love the listeners who support us with a small financial contribution most of all. People like Jeremy Winterson, an actual race car driver and illegal taxi driver. (One of those statements is true). If you want to get the show early, get some cool swag, and even have Greg come up with fantastical tales of your life, support us if you can ! And on Love, Loathe, or Leave: long-time expats who still can’t pronounce Pattaya correctly. Don’t sound like a noob, please? Thanks for listening. Hit us up on Facebook , Twitter , or LINE with your qwaments, kestians, or whatever you want to share.

S2 E66 · Tue, January 16, 2018

Bangkok vs. Plastic Bags

Key links for this episode: Sign the Change.org petition to put the pressure on 7-11 Donate to support the fight against plastic waste in Thailand Greenpeace’s position on Thailand’s plastic problem Support the Bangkok Podcast on Patreon Yes, there are too many plastic bags floating -- literally -- around Bangkok. But rather than you listen to just more expat bitching, we brought on a local Thai person who’s doing more than just bitching about the problem. Joey Liptapanlop is roping in his fellow citizens to start a grassroots movement aimed at… 7-11? Did you know that Thailand is the 6th worst plastic polluter in the world? That’s thanks to the 1.03 million metric tons of plastic Thais release into the water. Joey and his crew want to do something about that, and this seems like the generation to (finally) get it done. This is something we can get behind. Slacktivists can join the almost 25,0000 people who have  signed the Change.org petition to put the pressure on 7-11 . There’s also a Weeboon page to support the efforts of plastic pollution with small donations </

S2 E65 · Tue, January 09, 2018

Breaking Down The Thai Smile

Key links for this episode: Support us on Patreon to get the show early You’ve probably heard of “the Thai smile”, or know that Thailand is referred to as “the Land of Smiles”. Both of those phrases are well-earned, but that whole smiling thing is more than something done just in the hospitality space. For many Thais, smiling in a situation is a default reaction, even when the experience they are smiling at is a negative one. Like when a dog almost eats a small child and the owner’s reaction is to smile it off. Oh, and that’s not a hypothetical. It happened to Greg’s kid. Or when a Thai driver almost hits a pedestrian and just smiles and waves. Also not hypothetical, as our special guest Ed Knuth (filling in for Evo Terra this week) will tell you. But what looks like a blow-off really isn’t. It’s a cultural difference, and those of us who’ve been here a while learn to self-correct our immediate emotional response when we encounter the Thai smile. Or at least, we try to. It’s hard to break those old social contracts in favor or new ones. Is smiling at everything just another example of Thais being nice, often to a fault? Is it about saving face or avoiding confrontation? Or just the ramifications of a successful ad campaign? Greg and Ed will share more than a few of their thoughts and experiences gathered over the collective 33 years they’ve lived in Thailand. Speaking of living here for a long time, how do you feel about the “unboxing” that takes in the store when you buy damn near anything with an electrical plug in Thailand? Is that something you love, loath… or do you hate it so much you’re ready to leave Thailand? Listen in to find out how we feel, and share your thoughts with us. Special thanks to Paul Johnston, who’s deep love of Meatloaf led him to a life of … tires? OK. Paul and the other ~50 people who support us on Patreon -- is getting this show early. You can, too. Thanks for listening. Say nice things to Ed about his guest appearance, and hit us up on Facebook , Twitter , or LINE with your questions,

S2 E64 · Thu, January 04, 2018

Cultural Takeaways With Educator Frank Smith

To help us ring in 2018, we’re bringing back a prior guest on his annual pilgrimage to Bangkok. Frank Smith from UC Berkeley teaches Khmer to children of Cambodian refugees. We caught up with him in person at Bangkok’s Central World mall… before we got kicked out by security. Yes, again. Not just because one of us made a foot faux pas . What’s it like for a Thai speaker who doesn’t live in Thailand to plop back into Bangkok, suddenly surrounded by other Thai speakers? There are actually lot of ways to keep up with the evolving language, thanks to the pervasive nature of the internet. Or what’s it like when your a young person, with parents speaking their native tongue and all your friends and the world around you speaking English? Frank faces that every day in the classroom, and shares some interesting tidbits from his students. Also, Frank reports the Bay area of California has a sizeable and well-knit Thai population, so we press him for some impressions (from the outside, obviously) on how that contingent live their lives abroad, which makes for a nice parallel for those expats like us living in Thailand. You’ll also hear Frank bust some myths we’ve heard (and may be following) as we both struggle our way through learning Thai. And on Love, Loath, or Leave, we talk about not having easy access to clean drinking water. And by “easy”, we mean getting it straight out of the tap. It’s pretty obvious where we fall on this question, but your mileage may vary depending on where you are from. Thanks for listening. Hit us up on Facebook , Twitter , or LINE .

S2 E63 · Tue, December 19, 2017

A Motorcycle Meets A Car Door In Bangkok

Before we start, we have to mention a recent news story from Bangkok, which is rather appropriate considering the topic of tonight's show. You may recall we discussed traffic on episode 2.27 -- Blood on the Highway: Thailand’s Seven Deadly Days of Songkran . On that episode we mentioned that Thailand was the second-most deadly country in the world for road fatalities. Well, not anymore. We’re number one! And that’s a good way to set up the rest of the program, as it’s all about an accident we (yes, both of us) were recently involved in. Explaining what happened is tricky, but it involved doubling-up on a motorbike taxi without helmets, a possibly illegal Uber driver, three different quasi-cops, a crazy chicken lady, and someone high up in the taxi mafia (Probably. Possibly. Actually, we have no idea who he was). It’s a story you have to hear to understand, so listen up. We even stuck with the theme on Love, Loathe, or Leave! Someone told Thai drivers to turn on their hazard lights to signal intent to drive straight through an intersection. It’s not hard to guess how we each feel about this reality of living in Bangkok. Thanks for listening. Hit us up on Facebook , Twitter , or LINE . [/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

S2 E62 · Tue, December 12, 2017

Do They Celebrate Christmas in Bangkok?

You can now follow to the Bangkok Podcast on Spotify! It's nearly Xmas, so we figured we'd might as well start getting into the spirit of things with a Xmas-themed show. Now those of you who are westerners understand just how important Xmas is in your home countries. In most places it's the BIG DADDY of holidays, the one that the entire year has been building up to. In fact it's so big that they even celebrate it in countries where, to be honest, it has no real business being celebrated. Like this one! Trouble is… we’re not good experts on the topic. Evo’s never experienced the holiday in Thailand, and Greg usually spends Christmas at work. So rather than being all bah humbug, we reached out to some Thai nationals to find out what they do, other than spend a bunch of money at the malls. For Love, Loathe, or Leave this week we take on the great toilet paper debate. Where do you sit (heh) on issue? Are you a flusher, or are you a trash bin user? And what if there isn’t a bum gun in use? Our answers may surprise you. Or anger the public works people. Engage with us on Facebook , Twitter , or LINE , and support us on Patreon to keep the goodness coming!

S2 E61 · Tue, December 05, 2017

A Few Strange (and Possibly False) Laws You Might Experience in Thailand

On this episode we get into a few vague, strange - and possibly even non-existent - rules that you may or may not bump up against in Thailand. From buying chainsaws to changing your name to flying helicopters to losing your &$%@#! "book bank" (known throughout the rest of the world as bank books), these are things that govern the nuances of every day life. Greg reads 'em off, Evo plays Devil's Advocate to try and discount them, and we land somewhere around the middle. Love, Loathe, or Leave Have you ever seen someone - usually a taxi driver - standing right out in the open answering the call of nature without a care in the world as to who sees him (or it?) Yeah, so have we! We Love Our Supporters! Join dozens of fine people who help keep the show free of annoying ads by  supporting us on Patreon . You'll get exclusive bonus episodes, cool swag, and access to every show that the regular people get - a whole day early! Who doesn't want that? Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to  listen via Apple Podcasts . Android users are be able  get the show any number of ways . And for bonus points, leave us a review on those platforms or however you listen to the show. We’d love to hear from you! You can  add our official LINE account , comment on a post or send us a message via our  Facebook page , tweet to us  @bangkokpodcast , or simply via  the contact form on our website . You may also be interested in Greg’s  tweets of snarky Bangkok goodness , and you can see way too much of Evo’s face   on Instagram . If you’re really new, the Bangkok Podcast is co-hosted by  Greg Jorgensen  and  Evo Terra . Together the have over 20 years expat experience in Bangkok, and are self-certified experts in living in the City of Angels. (Not Los Angeles. Thailand, silly!) [/fusion_text][/fusion_builder_column][/fusion_builder_row][/fusion_builder_container]

S2 E60 · Tue, November 28, 2017

Thai Craft Beer's Secret Weapon Is... A Korean Expat?

RSVP to the I Love Podcasting In Bangkok meetup on Nov 29, 2017! Patrons get early access and exclusive bonus content. Today’s focus is on Korea's influence on Bangkok. Ted Ahn, an expat and ex-power plant manager from Korea, is actively working to bring about change in Bangkok’s local Thai craft beer industry. Ted is the owner of Changwon Express , and Evo sat down with him at his newest location on the top floor of Flow House . A few key bits from the episode: Ted estimates that around 90% of his customer base is all local Thai people. He reserves at least 20 taps for the exclusive support of Thai craft beer. His genius idea of catering to Thai girls with Korean food to in turn attract the Thai guys. What influence Brooklyn Brewery played into his efforts of making and supporting local brewers and local beer drinkers. His challenges and successes finding and training local staff to work behind the bar. He designed his own two-row tap system that separates the liquid from the head to create the best pour in Bangkok, a popular design in Korea. Ted’s plans to build a local brew pub with satellite locations, branches, to get around Thailand’s restrictive (draconian?) brewing laws in a totally legit fashion that would enable legal, local Thai craft beer… finally! What a huge pain in the ass it is to brew “local” beer in another country (which is why Ted wants to break out of that!) Ted’s thoughts on Thai local breweries (all contract brewing in other countries) growing from 3 - 20 in a couple years, and how that would change if only the laws would change. (Though he’s not waiting!) Love, Loathe, Or Leave? Listener Ryan asked us to watch this video of the Asian koel , or Eudynamys scolopaceus , and comment on its song. Greg loves its call. Evo wishes he had his shotgun. Engage with us on Facebook , Twitter , or LINE .

S2 E59 · Tue, November 21, 2017

Does Living in Bangkok Change Who You Are?

RSVP to the big I Love Podcasting In Bangkok meetup #2 on Nov 29th!   We’re working hard on the special gifts that supporters at the Gift Box level are going to receive… and they are hand-made pieces of awesome. Yeah, we’re teasing a bit, but these are going to be quite cool mementos and tokens of our appreciation. (If you want one, get signed up !)   This topic stems from a discussion the two of us were having while we were stuck in the back of an Uber on the way to find our Patreon gifts, and that discussion was: How much does living overseas change you as a person? Evo’s lived deep in the "travel blogger" world where there the transformative power of travel is  common theme, and that if you take a 6-month sabbatical, gap year, or whatever... you'll come back a changed person. But from his perspective, it's all crap. Greg experience is quite difference, having personally been transformed by one fateful trip to Thailand (oddly enough.) And more recently, he’s noticing just how divergent his views are from those of his lifelong friends who never left their hometown.   Not sure where you stand on the issue? Do you think living overseas really does change you? Or does living overseas appeal to a certain type of person that doesn’t need to be changed? Listen in and see which one of us you side with at the end. (And yes, we’re still friends!) Love, Loathe, or Leave No one likes cars that double-park. But on Bangkok’s BTS, you’ll see people “double parked”, trying to squeeze on before… well, us! And that doesn’t make us very happy, which sort of spoils this segment for you as we both LOATHE it! Except for one of us at one specific We Love Our Supporters! Especially Mos Miner. He’s one of our favorite patrons, and today you’ll hear about his odd connection to a harbor town far, far away. It’s a story that is quite literally out of this world. You should thank Mos and dozens of other people who help keep the show free of annoying by supporting us on Patreon . Mos and others also get exclusive bonus content, like the full episode about the unreliability of Thai Post and tearing down buildings because a street is too narrow. You aren’t getting the full Bangkok Podcast experience unless you become a patron, so… do it? Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via Apple Podcasts . Android users are be able get the show any number of ways . And for bonus points, leave us a review on those platfor

S2 E58 · Tue, November 14, 2017

How to Shop (and Not Shop) Like a Thai in Bangkok

RSVP to the big I Love Podcasting In Bangkok meetup #2 on Nov 29th! How will you celebrate the season this year? No, we’re not talking about Christmas. We’re talking about the Thai government’s annual shopping stimulus program, this time called "Shop For The Nation" for 2017 . It started on Saturday, November the 11th, and it runs through December the 3rd. We’ll cover this program in detail (and maybe poke just a wee bit of fun at it) as we give you all the details so you can get up to ฿15,000 off your taxable income next year. Yes, Bangkok expats pay taxes. At least our two families pay taxes. We’re not talking to you freeloaders out there. Get a job.Sticking with the shopping theme, every expat eventually starts assimilating into the culture. You have to buy stuff in your new country, and your own personal history influences the things you buy. Some of your everyday purchases will seem odd to any of your friends and family back home. And some things you hunt down to buy locally would make some of your natural born citizen neighbors wonder just why the heck anyone would want that. We put our own purchases to the test, discussing the most and the least Thai things the each of us has purchased while we’ve lived here, and exactly what our friends -- both local and back home -- probably think about those purchases. Ane we’ll even give you the answers: The most Thai things we own are a Buddha shelf and Thai pillows, and the least Thai things we own are licorice and a top sheet. If those answers make no sense, give the show a listen as we good-naturedly (?) poke each other for our answers. Love, Loathe, or Leave If you think our choices of products in this episode stink, just shove a stick of camphor up your nose. That’s the plastic tube or tub you see people sniffing as you go about your day in Thailand. What’s that all about? Why do they do it? And what do we think about it? Listen in and find out. We Love Our Supporters! Before we recorded this episode, we recorded an entire episode about Evo’s recent trip to Indonesia and just why he might be slurring his words tonight. You can get that full episode when you join dozens of other people who help us keep the show free of annoying by supporting us on Patreon . Today, you’ll hear about one of our favorite patrons, Sion, and his amazing career as a nude model. Come to think if it, he’ll probably be amazed by the story too. Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via Apple Podcasts . Android users are be able <a href= "http://subscribeo

S2 E57 · Tue, November 07, 2017

Ten Expats Share Where They Go to Get a Taste of Home in Bangkok

We know that Bangkok’s expat community is much more diverse than a Canadian and an American can hope to represent. So this week, we reached out to the wider community and asked a simple question: Where do you go in Bangkok when you want a taste of your own country? Before we get into that, though, Greg regales us with his story about being summoned by Frank Lam, the founder of Foodland grocery stores (and the excellent Took Lae Dee food counters inside), who wanted to say thanks to Greg for including Took Lae Dee on his list of 50 Reasons Why Bangkok is the Best City in the World . Turns out Frank was the type of legendary character that you can only meet on a random Bangkok night, and Greg explains why. But back to the main topic of where to find a taste of home in Bangkok. Listen in to get these great insights from local expats: Hidden Hungarian hangouts Which restaurants Kuwaitis frequent for great middle eastern food Where a Spaniard suggests you go for amazing cheese, cold cuts, and olive oil Why Poles are jonesing for homemade pierogi and sauerkraut Places in Thailand Australians avoid to avoid more Australians Which soi off Sukhumvit is perfect for Germans who have a hankering for Schweinshaxe and Rotkohl The one spot that Singaporeans/Malaysians say you don’t want to miss Spots in Bangkok where Norwegians and other Scandinavians hang out other than IKEA A local church in Sala Daeng where Italians can feel like at home Why Russians day-trip out of Bangkok to get their homeland fix in Pattaya Why an Indian-descent Thai national asked an American to cook Thanksgiving dinner, paying him in quality craft beer from Bootleg Brothers Brewing Love, Loathe, or Leave We need to talk about privilege, Bangkok. It’s humiliating, it’s unfair, and it perpetuates stereotypes. Of course, we’re talking about the special parking spaces for supercars and superbikes in Bangkok. Those of us that don’t drive a Lamborghini or some 3000cc crotch-rocket are mad as hell, and we’re not going to take it any more! We Love Our Supporters! Before we recorded this episode, we recorded an entire episode about Evo’s recent trip to Indonesia and just why he might be slurring his words tonight. You can get that full episode when you join dozens of other people who help us keep the show free of annoying by supporting us on Patreon . Today,

S2 E56 · Tue, October 31, 2017

Talking Travel Insurance with Stuart McDonald from Travelfish.org

Before we get into the ins and outs of travel insurance with one of the most well-traveled people out there, we dive right back into the shallow end of debating whether or not Bangkok's traffic has improved. Why would it improve? Well, last month the police commissioner said that traffic police will no longer be setting up checkpoints...so, did it work? Evo weighs in (because Greg drives a car, and they get pulled over way less that motorbikes, which he's really happy about). But the real reason we're here is to talk insurance. Travel insurance, specifically, and why it's so important. Stuart McDonald, the founder of Southeast Asia's best site for independent travel - that's Travelfish.org  in case you live in a cave - was kind enough to join us from his home in Bali about his experiences traveling, writing about traveling, and giving advice to people about traveling. For instance, did you know that if you ride a motorbike without a helmet and get in an accident, your insurance might be void? Why? Because you're breaking the law silly, and insurance companies loooove to find little loopholes like that. But these days it's more complicated than simply buying insurance and then heading off on an adventure. Among other things we talk about: The ubiquity of social media and how it changes how bad news is spread and how people view travel The importance of putting the effort into understanding how your insurance policy works in different countries Why travel insurance probably isn't going to cut it if you cross the line from traveler to expat Why most of these elements can be covered by simply using your noggin (to think with, not as a helmet holder) Trust us folks, you'll be hard pressed to find someone as knowledgeable as Stu on how to travel properly. He's also a father, as well, so that makes his opinion doubly valid. Don't make him come back there! Love, Loathe, or Leave Have you ever put your hand into your pocket and pulled out a fistful of dollars baht? Evo has, and he hates it! It vexes him, the nasty coinses, and he's going to tell you why! It's a good thing too, because Greg had no idea what he was talking about until Evo explained his oddly specific coin rage. We Love Our Supporters! You want bonus episodes? You can get bonus episodes! This week we talked about germs, vacation days, and what it's like to take a holiday while working at a Thai company. Here's a hint: you don't have time to go very far. You can get that full episode when you join dozens of other people who help us keep the show free of annoying by  supporting us on Patreon . Please?  Thank you! Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you

S2 E55 · Tue, October 24, 2017

Contemporary Art Tour In Audio: Exploring Bangkok’s MOCA

We’re not whispering to make it hard for you to hear. We’re doing it to be respectful, because we recorded this episode inside the Museum of Contemporary Art in northern Bangkok. Now, bear in mind that neither of us are huge art people. But museums such as Bangkok MOCA are designed to be accessible by anyone, not just art aficionados. Today, we put that to the test. Spoiler: We loved it! The middle part of this episode features our honest reaction to some of the art as we encounter it. Now, keep in mind that art appreciation isn’t the type of experience that lends itself to being expressed in audio. So you won’t be surprised as we try to interpret for you the… well, let’s say “more eclectic” pieces from Thailand’s contemporary artists. Hopefully it comes off as funny as we intended it, and not mean-spirited. Even though the choice bits below may appear the opposite, we really did enjoy our time at Bangkok’s MOCA and would highly recommend you visit, too. If you do listen to the full episode, you’ll have some context for these choice reactions and more: “It’s hard to fault a painting that has a 3D penis.” “Body, mind, peaceful: Three words I don’t think about when I think of Hitler.” “This looks like something out of Ghostbusters…” “That dog has no head. This one is wearing a necklace with three penises on it.” “And… the painter likes big balls.” “What would happen if a hippopotamus had a baby with a cicada? That’s your answer.” “This would really cool if we had a skateboard. It would be even cooler if we remembered how to ride it.” “I’ve never seen so many boobs in such a short amount of time.” Seriously. Give our interpretation a chance. You’ll laugh at our antics (and likely lament our lack of cultural exposure) and hopefully decide to add all six floors of Bangkok’s MOCA to your must-see list. It’s a fantastic way to spend a good part of your day, whether you’ve been in Bangkok for years or are just visiting for a few days. It’s worth it! Love, Loathe, or Leave This building is sparkling clean, which makes it an anomaly in Bangkok. Unless you’re on a public escalator in Bangkok. Those things are sparkly clean, from the handrails to the treads. Listen in to find how how we feel about that (which is pretty obvious) and how and why the janitorial staff keep them immaculate. We Love Our Supporters! Before we recorded this show we recorded an entire episode about our journey to the MOCA exclusive to our patrons! You can get that full episode when you join dozens of other people who help us keep the show free of annoying by supporting us on Patreon . Please?  Thank you! Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your fir

S2 E54 · Tue, October 17, 2017

Acting Like an Actor in Thailand

So Evo was recently the star of a Pakistani commercial shot in Thailand, and by “star” we mean he was on-screen for about four seconds. That got Greg thinking wistfully of his own time as a thespian here in the Land of Smiles, so we thought we'd talk a bit about what it's like being an actor in Thailand. While Evo is the most recent “actor” in this two-way conversation, Greg has by far the longer filmography . And he went to film school! Here are some choice bits from the episode, including some links if you want to watch: Watch Evo’s Sprite commercial . He’s the Pakistani chef, obviously. Watch a clip featuring Greg in the TV miniseries Blackbeard . He’s the panhandler, obviously. Where you can find acting/model/extra gigs in Thailand Working with agents/scouts What you can expect when you go on casting calls in Thailand What life on set is really like on set for every actor who isn’t the star How to hobnob with the actual stars (and make all the extras jealous!) How you too can make thousands of baht (not dollars) acting in Thailand Why you probably should leave your comedic antics at home and not get in trouble like one of us But don’t worry: We won’t let our huge acting success go to our heads. We like doing the podcast, if only because we don’t have to sit around waiting to start. Or share 30% with an agent! Also: Did you know that you can listen to our show via email ? We’re all about making it easy to listen to us every week, and email remains the killer app. Sign up if that make sense to you. Oh, and we’ll never send you anything other than the episode each week. We’re not big on email marketing. Like… at all. Love, Loathe, or Leave A good chunk of Bangkok’s commuters avoid traffic by taking… a boat? Yes, the boats of the Saen Saep canal are quite the experience and a super cheap way to get around the city. Find out how we feel about putting our lives and hygiene at risk by taking this low-tech high-speed transit option. We’ll say one thing: it’s authentic! We Love Our Supporters! A quick shout out to cool-as-a-cucumber Juhani Makaranta. And wow, do we hope Juhani has a good sense of humor about the… let’s just go with “special” way Greg introduces him. [sigh] Want Greg to make up stories about you? Maybe you’d like early access to our episodes. Or what about the full-length exclusive episodes we produce every weekly just for our supporters? Join the others by <a href= "htt

S2 E53 · Tue, October 10, 2017

Thailand Taboos: How To Avoid Getting Kicked Out Of The Kingdom

It’s generally considered bad form to use curse words in the land of peace, order, and smiles that is Thailand. And when a farang uses native Thai bad language, it’s a bit more culturally insensitive. Just like Greg learned this week. But that’s not what we’re talking about today. Thai taboos are the topic of today’s show, a topic we’re all too familiar with. Hey, it happens, and we’re not doing it on purpose. In this episode, we’ll share our personal experiences of things NOT to do during your time in the kingdom. And not just the easy stuff to avoid, like touching strangers on the head (seriously, who does this?), failing to stand quietly when the national anthem plays every day on public transport terminals, not taking off shoes when going inside someone’s house or condo, or committing lese majeste . Clearly you should not do those things. On the program today, we’ll cover some lesser known taboos, like: Being careless with your money (Not spending-wise, as visitors are encouraged to be non-thrifty, but how the bills are treated) Pounding postage stamps Tapping gogo dancers with your foot Stepping over the dead or those pretending to be dead (true story, bro) Picking your teeth (noses are OK) Gesture to a human like you’d gesture to an animal Smuggling Buddha out of the country (please ignore all the vendors trying to sell you Buddha memorabilia, we guess?) Being in public with your naughty bits exposed to the world Raising your voice when you get angry (and you will get angry) The reverse is also true, because some of what we Westerners think of as taboo are perfectly fine here. Things like Using rather direct terms to describe body size, level of hirsute-ness, and skin tone Asking direct questions about income level, age, or other private (from our perspective) affairs … and more Love, Loathe, or Leave It’s not a taboo that prohibits you from buying booze or beer from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm or from midnight to 11:00 am. It’s the law that does that, and it’s enforced at every 7-11 or grocery store. So if you’re in the mood for a beer in the afternoon or just want to prep for a party later that night, you might want to plan ahead. Find out how we feel about this handy law when you listen. (Though you will not be surprised.) We Love Our Supporters! Among our fantastic group of supporters is Mr. Mark Wisdom. You literally will not believe what we found out about this strength trainer from Texas who studied Thai massage. It’s completely unbelievable, and if you’d like Greg to make up stories about you, plus get early acce

S2 E52 · Tue, October 03, 2017

Bangkok's Hidden Gems: Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park

Before we get started, we’ve a quick warning for visitors headed to Bangkok in October 2017. We don’t normally recommend listening to the tuk tuk drivers hanging out around the Grand Palace when they tell you that the attraction you want to visit is closed. But this month, they are correct. It’s the culmination of the year of mourning for Thailand, and lots of things are closed. But don’t turn to us for the latest info. You want Richard Barrow for that, as he has all the details of what’s closed and what’s open for your Bangkok visit this month . Today we are on location in an area of Bangkok known as Samyan . This area was first settled by Thai-Chinese people, which isn't all that surprising, seeing that Bangkok's Chinatown is just a kilometer or two up the road. In more recent times, Samyan had become synonymous with street food, supplying locals and attracting visitors from all over Bangkok. Then - and  stop us if you've heard this one before - the vendors were all given notice to pack up and move, and the bulldozers followed quickly behind, leaving many wondering what project was under way. The answer? Chulalongkorn University Centenary Park , which is more than just Bangkok’s newest green space. Listen in to hear us share our experience with this new but still hidden gem in Bangkok: It sits on 28 rai of land, to form an "urban forest" concept It features a specially designed wetland that includes a rain garden, retention pond, and underground water drainage system Evo sharing some botanical knowledge (Fabacea family, not Cannabaceae, stoner) Why the grass at CUCP is way more friendly on your feet than that in Lumpini park But it’s more than just a park. CU sees the park as a an important component of their master plan to convert the Samyan area into… Thailand's Silicon Valley? Other development in Samyan, either planned or underway, including Zy Walk, Samyan Mitr Town, and Suan Luang Square. Love, Loathe, or Leave Perhaps inspired by the beauty of the park, today we’re taking on an iconic food in Bangkok and all of Thailand: dragon fruit. It’s arguably the most beautiful fruit to look at. But the taste? Well, without giving the answer away, we’re at another split decision. Listen in and tell us where your taste buds fall on this issue. And which one of us needs to drink better beer. We Love Our Supporters! If you haven’t yet heard, we’re recording additional full-length episodes every week just for our patrons. We get a little more intimate, a little more fast and loose with the topics, and

S2 E51 · Tue, September 26, 2017

Tuk Tuk Tours in Bangkok Are Not Just For Tourists

On-location from the back of a tuk tuk in Bangkok, we’re pretending to be tourists for the day and, surprisingly enough, discovering some new things about our adopted home. Ride along with us! (Direct download .mp3) Episode Details Astute listeners will notice the marked increase in Bangkok traffic noise in this episode. That’s for a very good reason, as we recorded it from the back of a tuk tuk, driving through the streets of Bangkok . Why are we in a tuk tuk? We’re glad you asked. For as much disdain is thrown on the idea of “doing tourist-y things”, there’s actually merit in that concept. Bangkok is a rapidly changing city, and our friends at Expique are true masters at showcasing some of the greatest areas of Bangkok for their clients -- including a couple of long  term expats (that’s us)! So we hopped in one of their tuk tuks, broke out the microphones, and recorded the activities we experience on their evening food and tuk tuk adventure . Thanks for having us, Expique! Here’s what you’re in for in this episode recorded on-location: A restaurant in Bangkok that serves over 30,000 sticks of pork satay every single day The amazing sights, sounds, and smells of the Bangkok flower market Tasty food made fresh -- with flowers! -- from the chefs at The Market Experience A minor altercation between two tuk tuk drivers post-collision (That was fun!) Why people are no longer allowed to swing on Bangkok’s Giant Swing (Hint: Dead people) Why food tours are a great way to try new food… that you will love or hate, depending on your Canadian palate. Royal guards, missing plaques, and merit making A cameo appearance by our guide, Net Love, Loathe, or Leave Speaking of touristy things to do that locals do as well, you’ve likely heard of Chatuchak Market. There probably isn’t anything you can’t buy there, which makes it an easy place to love. But there are a few loathe-able aspects of JJ market as well. We’ll tell you want we think if you take a listen to this episode. We Love Our Supporters! Due to our recording environment, we didn’t call any specific patron out on the episode. But that doesn’t mean we don’t love our patrons! You can join dozens of other people who help us keep the show free of annoying ads and get access to bonus content, cool swag and more by supporting us on Patreon . Please? Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s

S2 E50 · Tue, September 19, 2017

The Q&A Episode: Happy Anniversary to Us!

After a brief moment of vindication on the news that 10% of Bangkok traffic police failed a test about traffic laws, we dive right into the questions from the audience. This is our one year anniversary show since the re-launch, and it’s all about you talking to us! Shaun wants to know our opinion on outdoor activities such as “wild swimming” in the seas and rivers and hiking in the forests and parks all around Thailand. Vincent is looking for some recommendation on movies from Thailand, plus has some geeky questions about the process we use to record episodes of the podcast each week. Oh! And he scoops us on a new “jungle” being built on an old swamp that’s now an airport. Gotta check that out! Dan is curious about the dining/entertainment options just across the river from us in the Silom/Surasak area, and Dylan has a tricky immigration/citizenship question, which means we need to give a serious answer? Love, Loathe, or Leave Matthew makes the suggestion this week, asking how we feel about getting the attention of wait staff in various restaurants around Thailand. It’s not like we’re totally ignored...just mostly. But that’s really more a cultural thing than an “ignore the big white dude and maybe he’ll go away” thing. Still, it takes some getting used to, which means we probably love it or loath it. Listen in to find out which it is! We Love Our Supporters! This week, we’re thanking another of our supporters and his time, Terry Blackburn has the honors. Greg found out that Terry was such an inspirational student of karate, he forever changed the sport. Curious why that fact (?) is relevant? You’ll have to listen to find out what story we have to tell. You can thank Terry and dozens of other people who help us keep the show free of annoying ads and get access to bonus content, cool swag and more by supporting us on Patreon . You should join them! Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via Apple Podcasts . Android users are be able <a href= "http://subscribeonandroid.com/thaifaq.lib

S2 E49 · Tue, September 12, 2017

Getting Married In Thailand from the Western Perspective

Today Greg looks back to his Thai wedding to help us discuss just how much you can expect to spend on your own happy day in Thailand. That’s after a brief talk about avoiding floods and transit-hacking in Bangkok, obviously. Good news: we’re not flooded out, though plenty of the world is right now. Perhaps influenced by the terrible news from Bangladesh, Houston, and much of the Caribbean, the government issued warnings about flooding on the Chao Phraya River, which both of us see every day. But what we didn’t see was any part of the river exceeding its boundaries here in Bangkok, so we’re calling ourselves safe. For now. But weren’t we here to talk about Thai weddings? A few years back, Greg wrote a blog post about how much his Thai wedding cost , a post that remains one of his most popular. That and the fact that Greg still gets questions about getting married in Thailand, we’re dedicating this episode to all the nitty gritty details, what went right, what went wrong, and what you can expect if you decide to get married to a Thai in Thailand. It’s bananas. No, literally. Bananas are involved. You’ve got to listen to this episode and compare it to your nuptial experience. Or experiences, if you’re a repeater. Love, Loathe, or Leave Since we’re talking Thai weddings, we discuss the touchy subject of the dowry. You probably don’t have to think to hard to hear how a couple of Western dudes feel about the sometimes symbolic, sometimes all too real concept of paying the family for a bride, but you should listen in anyhow. And then tell us if you agree with our summation or not! We Love Our Supporters! This week, we’re thanking another of our supporters and his time, Kurt Martens has the honors. Greg found out that Kurt was not just a track star in his younger days, but a track hacker. What’s that all about? You’ll have to listen to find out what story we have to tell. You can thank Kurth and dozens of other people who help us keep the show free of annoying ads and get access to bonus content, cool swag and more by supporting us on Patreon . You should join them! Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to

S2 E48 · Tue, September 05, 2017

Do Only Weirdos Live In Bangkok?

On this episode we ask the immortal question: do you have to be a little bit strange to live in Bangkok? We don’t mean that (necessarily) in a bad way, you understand. But it sure seems that, on some level, people who tend to thrive on chaos deal really well with the uncertainty, noise, culture shock, and political instability that are endemic to Thailand. If nothing else, you sure need to have an 'elastic outlook' on life. All of that is the exact opposite of life in most western countries, so by definition, you have to be okay with rejecting the "normal" parts of your native culture. And that’s something not everyone is comfortable with. Not surprisingly, your hosts of the Bangkok Podcast self-identify with the moniker “weirdo”, which probably explains why we’re doing alright here. In this episode we talk about why we fit, what other strange people we’ve met during our time in the kingdom, and then diss on some people who claim to be strange, yet just follow along with the crowd. Let your freak flag fly and enjoy this fun episode of our show. Love, Loathe, or Leave We’ve all seen them - trimming hedges, fixing cables, doing construction work. The hidden ninjas of Bangkok, the manual laborers who clad themselves from head to toe in clothing despite the ungodly heat and job in direct sunlight. Why do they do it? Don’t they get dehydrated? And why do they look at us like WE’RE the strange ones for wearing shorts? We Love Our Supporters! This week, we’re thanking another of our supporters. This time, it’s Chris “The Coin” Stevens. How did Chris earn that cool nickname? You’ll have to listen to find out what story we have to tell. You can thank Cookies and dozens of other people who help us keep the show free of annoying ads and get access to bonus content, cool swag and more by supporting us on Patreon . You should join them! Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via Apple Podcasts . Android users are be able <a

S2 E47 · Tue, August 29, 2017

Paradise Lost: Island Living in Thailand

Today we compare living in Bangkok vs a tropical island paradise in Thailand. Also, we share how you can participate in our upcoming one year anniversary show, and give yet another reminder about the big Bangkok-wide I Love Podcasting In Bangkok event coming up August 30th, 2017. Please forgive the sound of the rolling surf in the background during the interview with this week's guest. That’s just one bonus of living on an island in Thailand vs the big city of Bangkok: giving up the sounds of traffic for the sounds of the sea. Like many people, our guest this week - an old friend of Greg's named Tad - first discovered Thailand on a famous full moon party island. After stretching his vacation to two months, he went back to his native home in Los Angeles and started making plans for full-time living in his newfound paradise. A year later, he was back at the same spot, ready to do it again and forever. Stop me if you heard this one, but it wasn’t quite the same the second time around. Paradise, as it seems, can be lost. “It’s like Groundhog Day, but with Red Bull and SangSom.” - Tad Still convinced that island living was what he wanted, he packed up and moved to the barely-occupied Thai island Ko Lanta to try his hand at living pre-tourist wave. But that was a decade ago. Fast-forward to today for our episode topic: Expat living in Thailand away from the hustle-and-bustle of Bangkok, deep in paradise. Is it really all it’s cracked up to be? Can you really trust a “professional electrician” who wears flip flops on the job? And how often can you hit the waves when you’re running your dream business seven days a week? Tad brings a healthy dose of reality for those ready to follow their dreams. Listen in to get some pro tips. Oh, and to add a bit of color to the interview, here's a photo Greg took from Tad's pad on Lanta. No wonder you could hear waves in the background. Click to embiggen. As mentioned on the episode, we're quickly approaching one year of doing the podcast, and for our 50th show we’ll be featuring questions submitted by our listeners, so get in touch via the links below! Also, if you haven't yet RSVP'd to the big I Love Podcasting In Bangkok meetup coming up on August 30th, please do so. Love, Loathe, or Leave While there are many cultural affections in Bangkok that stand out to North Americans, we’re covering the comb-over on this episode. You know, that thing that went out of style in the ‘60s and only adopted by old men who didn’t get the news? It’s categorically not out of style over here and is as commonplace as women carrying shoulder bags. Listen in to find out where our heads are on the issue. (Did you see what we did there?) We Love Our Supporters! This week, we’re thanking another of our supporters. This t

S2 E46 · Tue, August 22, 2017

Bangkok Needs A Facelift

This week we take a break from talking about how much we love Bangkok to discuss the city's ugly, dusty, dirty side. Prior to that we'll tell you about our bike-tastic weekend. Because sometimes you just gotta get out of the city and enjoy the rest of Thailand, right? Evo gets burned on the beach in Hua Hin, and Greg MacGyver’s his way through a bike ride in remote Bangkok. Clearly we love living in the Kingdom, but as with most relationships, there are things that drive you a bit crazy. One of those things about Bangkok is that while it's certainly a fascinating city, it is not a very attractive city. At least not at first sight. What’s not to love? Well… abandoned buildings still dot the landscape, giving many aspects of Bangkok a bit of a post-apocalyptic feel. And even for occupied buildings, the elements aren’t nice to our hi-so condos, and many could use with a fresh (or perhaps first ever) coat of paint. When you do see color on buildings, it’s often from re-purposed polyvinyl signs used in some rather ingenious (and likely not permitted) construction project. Of course, we’ll talk about the twisted knot of telecommunication lines that is inescapable in Bangkok if you happen to look just slightly up. Which you probably don’t do very often for fear of stepping into an open hole in the sidewalk, falling down a bottomless pit. But maybe that’s just our perception as farangs who’ve lived too long in the city? For it certainly stands in contrast with the army of street cleaners who sweep the streets around Bangkok with brooms and dustpans. Give this episode a listen and let us know your thoughts on the less-beautiful side of Bangkok. Maybe we’re being to critical? Love, Loathe, or Leave How do we feel about fish sauce, that salty, MSG-laden black liquid that Bangkokians put on just about everything? Not surprisingly, it’s a split decision this week. (Spoiler: One of your hosts might have sent a whole bunch of postcards around the world doused in the savory goodness! And the other likes ketchup. Gross.) We Love Our Supporters! You really need to meet Christine Foti, the lovely person this week who deserves our thanks and your awe. Why? A few years back she called her cable company to cancel her service, and they were so scared of losing such a stellar customer, they offered to pay her if she didn't leave. Now she makes a nice chunk of change from companies that simply want to be associated with her. When she’s not doing that, Christine and a few other fantastic people help us keep the show free of annoying ads and get access to bonus content, cool swag and more by supporting us on Patreon . You should join them! Also, thanks to J Robert MM for the lovely review of the Bangkok Podcast on iTunes. You rock, JRMM, and enjoy life in Kanchanburi! Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you re

S2 E45 · Tue, August 15, 2017

Holy Cow! The Role of Hindu Priests in Thailand’s Buddhist Royal Court

Today we’re talking with an expert on the Brahmin, a Hindu caste that plays a very important role in the highest levels of Thai society. And we have something special planned for our one year episode. Oh, and there's a Bangkok-wide podcast meetup coming up. We’ll cover that and more on episode 2.45 of the Bangkok Podcast. Have you RSVP’d to the big, huge, love-fest that will be the I Love Podcasting In Bangkok meetup on August 30th ? It’s free, low-key, and something we’d like to repeat on a regular basis. So if you’re in town and free that evening, come join us and lot of other podcasters, podcast listeners, and those just interested in learning more about podcasting for a few beers and conversation. It’ll be fun! And if that’s not interesting enough, we’re coming up on our one-year anniversary of the podcast relaunch! We’re collecting questions, comments, and other items that you, our loyal listeners and fans would like for us to talk about on this special show. There are plenty of links at the bottom of this post if you’d like to send a query. But that’s not what we’re talking about on this episode. Recently, Greg chatted with Nathan McGovern, Assistant Professor in Philosophy and Religious studies at the University of Wisconsin - Whitewater. He has a BA in Physics and a PhD in Religious Studies, and is a specialist on a unique Hindu Caste called the Brahmins. Not a lot of people have heard of the Brahmins, and even if you have you may not be aware that they play a vital role in the highest levels of Thai society and have been doing so for hundreds of years. Here are a few tidbits you’ll pick up from this fascinating conversation How Hindu priests (Brahmins) became employed by Thailand’s Royal Court (a Buddhist institution) hundreds of years ago -- and remain today What services the Hindu priests perform in Thailand’s Royal Court and how that differs from the Buddhist priests Why having Hindu priests quite close to the center of power in Thailand isn’t quite as strange as it might seem Which modern ceremony performed by Brahmins expats in Bangkok have probably have seen Where to <a href= "https://www.google.co.th/maps/place/Thewasathan+(Bot+Pram)/@13.7522488,100.4990911,17z/data=!4m14!1m6!3m5!1s0x0:0x84f49c77c970ffc1!2sDevasathan+(Brahmin+Temple)!8m2!3d13.7525379!4d10

S2 E44 · Tue, August 08, 2017

Bangkok's Hidden Gems: The Scala Theater

We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again - Bangkok is an interesting city; but it ain’t a pretty city. But that’s not to say that there aren’t places of architectural significance or historical importance, because there are. One of those is the magnificent Scala theater - at least until it gets knocked down for another mall. Oh, and while recording this episode on location at the Scala, we were kicked out because we didn’t have permission (you can hear this conversation with the theater’s major domo in the Patreon bonus content). Also in this episode, Evo wonders why bowling in Thailand is more glam than redneck, and Greg muses about the dangers of driving huge trucks in Bangkok if you can’t see out of the goddamn windows. Where we come from - and perhaps where you, dear reader, also come from - bowling is something you do for a laugh. It’s a sport so ridiculous, so fringe, so cheesy, that it’s hard to take anyone seriously who takes it seriously. But not in Thailand - no, here people actually dress up to head to the bowling alley with friends. As he prepares to head out with wifey’s friends for an evening of ball play, Evo is unsure what to expect. But our main topic is the awesome Scala movie theater, one of the Bangkok’s last, best remnants of a more glamorous time, where movies were shown in 70mm and theaters were - as you can still see - built with more love and attention to detail than a modern office building. But how long will it last? Owned by Chulalongkorn University, the land that the Scala sits on is some of the most valuable real estate in the country, and when money talks, no one’s speaking very loudly by selling movie seats at 100 baht a pop. So sadly, inevitably, it’s only a matter of time until the Scala gets turned into a new mall, but until then, it’s open for business. We discuss its history, its significance, and why should make it a point to make a visit post-haste. And - as a bonus - here's the picture if Pinocchio from the Scala that Greg mentioned in this episode's Patreon bonus content - just before they got kicked out of the theater. Love, Loathe, or Leave Greg wonders why in the HELL the drivers of trucks - not pickups or ¼-ton specials, but full-size 2-ton big-rigs - feel the need to cover their windshields with stickers, add lights and various bling to the mirrors, and otherwise bedazzle their trucks all to hell. Safe? Nope. Aerodynamic? Nope. Cool looking? Also nope...at least from our perspective. We Love Our Supporters! This week we’re giving a HUGE thank you to Matt B, who is supporting the show at the highest level, meaning that he’ll soon get a personalized, very special gift from us. We also tell you why Matt is the type of guy you wish you knew, and hope to have around if a fire ever breaks out. We’ll say nice things about you on an episode too, plus give you bonus content and early access to our shows, for a modest level of financial support.

S2 E43 · Tue, August 01, 2017

News Flash: It’s Hard To Get The News In Thailand In English

A discussion about the challenges and barriers to getting quality English-language news on Thailand from Thailand. And Evo’s learning to write like a 3-year-old. After that, the magic of pork floss. Because Bangkok Podcast. Evo’s decided that maybe he does need to learn Thai. So he picked up a new book, Fun Training From Chicken to Owl . Well, that’s the English translation. Why has he flip-flopped on his opinion on learning Thai? Because Stu Jay Raj said so . Fine. But that’s not what we’re talking about today. Thailand isn't quite as dedicated to the concept of a "free press" as most Westerners are used to. While it's not quite state-controlled like North Korea, China, or Russia, there are limitations -- about 44 of them ( wink) -- to how far the Thai press will go. But for expats, there's a more fundamental problem: Actually getting any news from Thailand about Thailand in a language other than Thai. More than one expat new to the area has bemoaned the lack of English-based content coming out of the Thai media. And for good reason. On this episode of the Bangkok Podcast, we’re covering English-presented news generated from within the kingdom of Thailand. So if you’re looking for your TV, radio, or newsprint-based fix for news, this episode of our podcast will help point you in the right direction. Love, Loathe, or Leave This one needs no preamble, as we’re talking about the magic of pork floss. Yes, pork floss. Or as Greg calls it, pig-flavored cotton candy. Because if that doesn’t sound tasty to you, there is something terribly wrong with you. Like one of us. Listen in to see and see who you side with, as we’ve a split decision this week. We Love Our Supporters! This week we’re giving a HUGE thank you to ex-expat Adam Payet. He’s been forced to move back to a big desert island, but keeps up with the goings on in his adopted homeland (that’s Bangkok), by listening to The Bangkok Podcast. And because he’s a super nice guy, he’s helping to keep the show going every week. Thanks, Adam! We’ll say nice things about you on an episode, plus give you bonus content and early access to our shows, for a modest level of financial support. And by “modest”, we mean a couple of bucks! Join the growing list of listeners who support our podcast on Patreon . Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via Apple Podcasts . Android users are be able <a href= "http://subscribeonandroid.com/thaifaq.libsyn.com/rss"

S2 E42 · Tue, July 25, 2017

The Science Behind Tasty Thai Food

This week we’re talking with an honest to goodness food scientist who gives us the lowdown on the health benefits - or lack thereof - of Thai food and its sundry ingredients. But first, Evo plays Robin Hood as he recounts a pleasant encounter with a wandering sheriff. What are the odds a visitor to Bangkok would not only run into one of the hosts of his favorite podcast, but run into said favorite podcast co-host just minutes after listening? Pretty high if you happen to visit Jack’s Bar. But as cool and unexpected as that was, it’s not what we’re talking about today. Adam Yee is a food scientist who works at a billion dollar health-and-wellness company in Phoenix Arizona. He’s the kind of guy who takes his work home with him, because he’s also the host of a podcast called My Food Job Rocks! . We brought Adam on the show to dispel the rumors and myths about the healthiness of Thai Food. Adam has a lot to share about what science says about fad diets and more, including these choice bits: How gluten spreads civilization (no offence to those diagnosed with Celiac Disease) Why you shouldn’t (and practically can’t) avoid MSG in Thailand A reference to the tastiest of tastes: umami Why you can blame the American military for Thailand’s dedication to sweetened condensed milk in everything How to curry favor from a food scientist (did you see what I did there?) The curious case of tamarind and why anyone would find it a tasty food additive Since Adam is curious about Thailand (his roomie is Thai), we talked about some unique aspects of Bangkok that shows why he’s a great food scientist. Among other things, we covered: The flavors and styles of snacks are made from seaweed The Mexican food scene of Bangkok (since he’s from Arizona, right on the Mexican border) How mayonnaise contributes to the Thainization of sushi Why Thais love Red #40 like French Canadians love Yellow #6 Macro trends on Thai-centric health concerns Love, Loathe, or Leave As we’ve talked about on prior episodes, Bangkok cops are cracking down on helmetless riders. Mototaxi drivers are accommodating, offering pay passenger a spare helmet. But when you’re sporting a mellon the the size of a beachball like both of us, it’s more about fine-avoidance than safety. Listen in to find out how we deal with this reality. We Love Our Supporters! In fact, we’re considering a special meetup for anyone who lives in or will be travelin

S2 E41 · Tue, July 18, 2017

Learning Thai By Hacking Your Brain

We’re talking with Stu Jay Raj, who uses his fluency in 12 languages to help "fluent" Thai second-language speakers connect on a more personal level than they ever thought they could. But first, the most Thai way to listen to the show and communicate directly with Evo. (Don't tell Greg!) Before we get started, we need to talk about our Patreon page , the only way we raise funds to support the show, and how many people have already signed up to get bonus content and extra content from us for a few bucks. There’s also our quasi-official LINE account , where a few of our followers are engaging in one-on-one conversations with Evo all the time. Are you connected with one or both of those? No? Fix that. You’ll get the warm fuzzies almost immediately! Prosody. It’s not a Thai word, but it’s not a word that either of us were familiar with. And, as it turns out, it’s key to becoming a better Thai speaker. That’s what you’ll learn when you listen to Greg’s conversation with one of the most talented and well-known polyglots in Asia, Stu Jay Raj .  He’s fluent in over 12 languages including English, Thai, Lao, Indonesian, Malay, Khmer, Burmese, Spanish, Hindi, Danish, and Vietnamese, with working knowledge of several more.  But he's not your average language educator. He has a degree in Cognitive and Applied Linguistics and uses his skills as a corporate facilitator, cross-cultural training specialist, and to assist multinationals, governments and NGOs in high-level conflict resolution. Here’s what you’ll learn from Stu when you listen to this conversation: Why the street is your best classroom when learning the natural rhythms and patterns of the foreign language you’re trying to learn. The truth about “fluency” and why it doesn’t really tell you how well someone can communicate Why you never want to be complimented on your skills when speaking another language How much leaned sound patterns from your native tongue are screwing up your mastery of Thai Why it’s OK to blame the Romans for the naughty phrases we accidentally say when we try to speak Thai How much easier it is to learn multiple languages at a time (as crazy as that sounds) What the biggest mistakes Thai language learners make… and how to stop! Why Stu claims that Thai is a beautiful, logical, and confusion free language -- once you learn it the right way And finally, why you should buy the book or

S2 E40 · Tue, July 11, 2017

Talking with Ron Morris, author of The Thai Book: A Field Guide to Thai Political Motivations

On this episode of the Bangkok Podcast, we interview Ron Morris, the author of The Thai Book: A Field Guide to Thai Political Motivations. But before we get into that discussion, Greg goes into (thankfully minor) detail about his second experience with food poisoning after 16 years of eating street food. Given the size of Greg, it's safe to say he's an expert on street food. But despite eating his way through, under, around, and on top of Bangkok for his entire time here, he has only been sick from eating street food once. Until last week. There was no hospital visit or death bed vigils, but the crab curry he ate made sure he spent a "lot of time alone, in a small room," if you get the drift. Nothing to do with Thai food...it could happen anywhere. But still...you play with fire, you get burned. But our main topic today is miles away from street food yet still very much in the street. Ron Morris is an author and Thai political commentator who has been in Asia for decades. As the man behind 2Bangkok.com , he's built up a reputation as someone who calls it like it is, with a keen insight into the motivations and reasoning behind the often murky - even opaque - political machinations of Thailand's leaders. Evo's discussion with him is broken into "chapters" which Evo and Greg comment on, but they include topics such as: What Bangkok was like in the 1990s when Ron's first coup took place, the infamous Black May protest of 1992, which saw 52 deaths Why protests in Thailand are seen as a very last resort before it hits the fan, unlike in western countries where protest is a sign of a strong, stable democracy The concepts of "face" and "big man" and how they guide relationships, reactions, business, and politics Why it's impossible to graft the western ideas of liberal/conservative/libertarian etc onto Thai political parties Ron's comments on the current administration, and what they're doing that others have not. Love, Loathe, or Leave This week is more of a "Would You Rather", but Greg and Evo discuss transportation in the rainy season. Which do you prefer: having a car, deciding when/how/where you go, controlling your environment....and possibly getting stuck in traffic for 3 hours? Or would you rather be crushed into the BTS, fighting off commuters and splashes from the rain...but have a pretty good idea of when you'll get home? OR...how about just ignoring all of that and riding between the cars on a motorbike...but having to deal with wet shoes and rain gear? Want More Bangkok Podcast In Your Life? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via Apple Podcasts . Android users are

S2 E39 · Tue, July 04, 2017

The Best Pad Thai Is Average By Design

This week we take a closer look at why Thailand's national dish -- pad thai -- isn't actually very representative of Thai food. But first, an innovative way to get out of a traffic ticket in Thailand when it happens to you. Evo tested. Evo approved. Before we get started with the meat of the show, we have to tell you the story of Evo getting ticketed for a traffic offense he really didn’t commit. Which meant he lost his license and had to then go argue his case in person at some some tiny cop-shop in the far northwestern corner of Bangkok. And by “argue”, we mean smile, stay friendly, and then don’t go away until the police officer gets sick of the whole situation, leading him to tear up the ticket and hand over the license. (Note: The Bangkok Podcast does not endorse this behavior. Drive safely, please!) But that’s not what we’re talking about today. Instead, we’re covering the classic, quintessential dish that everyone has to have when they visit Bangkok -- pad thai. Only... what if it's not all it's cracked up to be? To get to the bottom of this, Evo put on his investigative journalist hat once again and looked into the national -- or perhaps ultra-national -- dish of Thailand. Some fascinating things you’ll learn about this dish when you listen to this episode of the Bangkok Podcast: It’s not ancient and came about from a nation-wide competition It was designed to showcase Thailand’s entrance to the western world It’s either the most un-Thai Thai food or the most-representative-of-Thai-culture Thai food, depending on your perspective A dozen or so dishes that are much tastier (and spicier!) than pad thai (we recommend laab moo ) The best Dairy Queen Blizzard you can’t get in your home country How to make your grandmother shudder by putting sugar in her beef stew. Unless she’s Thai. How two farang think you should apply the best spices from the kruang prung collection the next time you visit Thailand (or your local Thai food joint) The easiest way you can show your support for our show (and get cool stuff) via Patreon. Love, Loathe, or Leave Middle aged men in Thailand have a natural, built in air conditioner that the two of us really need to get behind. You might have heard of “buddha belly”, but I don’t think you mean the same thing. How do we feel about these large dudes and their makeshift midriff? Listen this episode and find out.

S2 E38 · Tue, June 27, 2017

Best Mobile Apps For Bangkok in 2017

A listener suggestion drives this show as we talk about which smartphone apps we use to make living in Bangkok that much easier, on this extra-long episode of the Bangkok Podcast. Oh, and Evo is terrible at his job. But he’s getting better, and it makes for a funny story. We launched our Patreon page last week, and it’s working! People are supporting us! Not a huge number, but some. Which means you love it. Wanna help? We’d love it. We even recorded cool video for you. Actually, we had to re-record that video, as you’ll hear later. But enough about us begging for money (but seriously, a buck or two each month goes a long way) and let’s get on with the show proper, shall we? The topic of this week's episode was sent to us by listener Amy. She asked: "What apps do you use that are especially useful as expats in BKK? I'm visiting for the first time in 9 years (!!) next month and I know the city is going to be VERY different than when I lived there. Anything I can use to make it easier?" We thought it best to break the conversation into various app categories. And even though we’re spoiling it here in our show notes, be sure to listen to the episode to hear why we recommend them, as well as a few tips and cautionary tales. Oh, and where possible, we’ll link to the developer website to make this as applicable to everyone as possible. Getting around Bangkok Google Maps Uber Grab DLT Check-In (which, as you'll hear, has apparently stopped working) Getting food in Bangkok foodpanda Uber Eats Eatigo TripAdvisor Getting News about Bangkok (and back home) Google News Reddit Twitter Flipboard Communicating with others in Bangkok LINE Facebook Messenger WhatsApp Finding entertainment in Bangkok <a href=

S2 E37 · Tue, June 20, 2017

The Funniest Way To Get A Thai Drivers License In Bangkok

Now that we’re both legally licensed drivers in Thailand, we take a little extra time to tell you about the process we went through… and why not one bit of it actually prepared us for driving in Bangkok. Plus we'll share a new way you can show your support for our show. Because you love us! Before we get to driving in Thailand -- legally or otherwise -- we should talk about Patreon, a new way to let you, dear listener, help fund our efforts. If you're a fan of the show and want to show your appreciation, just go to Patreon.com/BangkokPodcast to make it happen. For just a buck a month (that’s only ฿34), you help us out and get some cool stuff in return. Check it out. We’ll love you forever! As a frequent listener of the Bangkok Podcast, you already know that Thailand is the second most dangerous country in the world to drive in - right behind Libya! - but despite that, both of us are licensed to drive. Evo just got his motorbike license last week, and Greg has had his automobile license for about a decade now. On this episode, we’ll tell you in great comedic and exasperating detail the process that we went through to be legal drivers in Thailand. Spoiler alert: it’s maddening. But funny! And a great example of “Thainess”. Many (perhaps most) expats living in Bangkok don’t even bother getting their licenses, opting instead to pass a few hundred baht to the cop when (not if) they are pulled over. But that seems to be changing, with a slew of new initiatives that are compelling cops all over Thailand to start cracking down on bad behavior, actually impounding bikes and issuing actual fines. If you think getting your license was a challenge in your own home country, you have to listen to this episode to see how it compares to Thailand. For fun, check out the test online and see how you fare. Keep your eyes out for tanks and race cars! And if you’re also expat-ing in Bangkok and have gone through the pain, please share your experience with us in the comments, our social sites, or with your own network. (And use the #thaipod hashtag!) Did We Mention Patreon? If you love the show we produce every week, we’d love -- as in really, really appreciate -- your support. Patreon makes it very easy to support the creators you love (hey, that’s us!) for just a buck or so a month. As an incentive, we’ve put in a few fun rewards in the mix, from bonus content to t-shirts to live events. Thanks in advance for your support. Just check out Patreon.com/bangkokpodcast to help us out. Love, Loathe, or Leave Are the girls on the BTS vampires or stoned? Probably neither, but the cheap colored contact lenses that are all the rage sure make th

S2 E36 · Tue, June 13, 2017

The Challenges Of Urban Planning In Bangkok

A Bangkok city planner helps bring some clarity to the ongoing (and confusing) development of Bangkok. But first, a very magical (and very Thai) cure for terrorism. All of that and more on this episode of the Bangkok Podcast. Remember the news from a few weeks ago when two journalists were arrested in Bangkok’s airport because they were carrying body armor ? While the the arrest captured everyone’s attention, it’s not the funniest part of the story. Greg happens to be friends with one of the journalists in question, and he related an unbelievable (unless you like in Thailand) alternate body armor solution offered by the Royal Thai Police. Ah, Thailand. But that’s not what we’re talking about today. Bangkok is a growing city. To the untrained eye (that’s us) a lot of it looks like disorganized chaos, unrepentant disregard for historical properties, and unchecked sprawl -- vertically and horizontally. To get a better perspective, we invited Tao Rugkhapan to help us out. He’s a lecturer at the School of Global Studies at Thammasat University and he used to work for the Bangkok Metropolitan Administration as an urban planner. He also did his PhD work on Bangkok's preservation of Chinatown, an area of Bangkok we both love. Kuhn Tao helps us understand some of the finer points of Bangkok's urban development. Some of them are: Why density is so high around current and planned transit stations What sort of planning cycle Bangkok uses The problems current zoning restrictions face The friction between private property owners and historic preservation efforts Why Sathorn is no longer the financial district of Bangkok A couple of major overhauls to Bangkok that will (again) change the landscape The unwavering impact of gentrification on Bangkok’s oldest communities A look at what the future might hold for Krung Thep In reality, we have a wet, crowded, and likely less historic city ahead of us. But it’s not all bad news on the Bangkok-living front. While we can’t predict the future with any accuracy, we certainly do seem to be living in interesting times, for whatever that’s worth. New Things To Do! If you want to do something helpful to expose the world to Thai podcasting, would you mind sharing your favorite show (hopefully this one) with your friends on Twitter, Facebook, LINE, Instagram, or whatever and use the hashtag #thaipod. Unsure how far it’ll go, but why not? Share your favorite show based in Thailand with the world using #thaipod. And if you’ve been looking for a universal way to review and rate this podcast -- heck, this specific episode if you like -- check out <

S2 E35 · Tue, June 06, 2017

Bangkok’s War On Street Food: A Live Report

Live from Bangkok’s Chinatown, it's Sunday night! Well, at least it was when we grabbed our mics, left the cozy comforts of our condos and recorded a live episode of the show from the streets of Chinatown to get to the bottom of this reported "War" on Bangkok's street food. We'll tell you what we discovered on episode 2.35 of the Bangkok Podcast. For the better part of the year, news reports, blogs, and pundits the world over have been raising the warning flags of an active war on Bangkok’s street food scene. Whether highlighting the plight of the vendors who rely on the revenue to survive, lamenting the loss of an inexpensive source of food for the working class, or pointing out the irony of Bangkok’s reputation as a top street food destination; all of the reports have a common thread: S treet food in Bangkok is doomed. But is it really? To find out, we visited Yaoworat Road in Chinatown, visiting one of Greg’s favorite noodle shops (incongruously positioned inside an opera house/second-run cinema/gay pickup joint) to see just how far reaching these new government mandates really were. Listen to find out what changes we noticed, what actions we think are still likely to come, and what doom-and-gloom predictions likely won’t come to bear. Without giving too much away, we’ll just tell you that we’re declaring the war on street food non-existent. But please bear in mind that we are not investigative journalists. Our observations are based on this single trip and casual visits to street vendors in this immediate area. It could be worse elsewhere, but it sure looks like street food in Bangkok isn’t in immediate peril. Love, Loathe, or Leave As y ou’ve heard us talk about before , there are plenty of green spaces in the heart of the Bangkok metroplex, but occasionally, you can find a large stretch of beautiful, untouched, pristine lawn just begging for a blanket and a picnic. But invariably, those areas come with large KEEP OFF THE GRASS signs. Listen in to find out if we loathe it or if it’s something we hate some much we’re ready to leave the Kingdom over. Want more? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to

S2 E34 · Tue, May 30, 2017

Invading Green Monster Chokes Out Bangkok

One of Thailand's most persistent pests - the beautiful but invasive water hyacinth - is once again clogging Bangkok’s waterways. And while Evo didn't die on a motorbike just yet, a friend of his is in the hospital after his scooter accident. Maybe he’s rethinking his chosen mode of transport? Motorbike accidents happen. Though this is Thailand, and Thailand holds the ignominious title of deadliest place to ride a motorbike. Last week the inevitable happened to a fellow expat here in Bangkok, though thankfully on a low-speed collision. Will it impact Evo’s decision to ride? You’ll have to listen to find out. But really, that’s not what we’re here to talk about. The Chao Phraya these days is a little more green than usual. Which sounds good, until you realize the green is from huge, floating islands of plant matter. It happens every year, and we’ve always wondered what it is. Evo took it upon himself to dig deep and has learned a few things about phak tob java , or water hyacinth as it’s commonly known, or Eichhornia crassipes as it’s known to botanists. Here are few of the things you’ll learn when you listen to this week’s episode The royal connection for how the invasive species from South America to Indonesia and finally Thailand The immediate nuisance the plant causes for those who make their living on the river How the plant contributes to Bangkok’s flooding, which arrived a bit early this year A bunch of management techniques that don’t work, and only one that does Some good news about how the plant can be used to clean the water, as a textile source, as biomass to generate fuel, and possibly a foodstuff But some bad news about the plant’s propensity to kill fish and incubate mosquitos A comical tale of how three -- or possibly four -- different government agencies are passing the buck as they say “not my problem” Finally, when you fully understand the complexity of the problem, you’ll see why water hyacinth is the perfect metaphor for Bangkok’s bureaucracy. That was meant to be funny, but... Love, Loathe, or Leave If you’ve only uttered “Hey Dude, where’s my car” when referencing a cult-classic from the turn of the century, you haven’t left your car -- or your motorbike -- in a parking lot in Bangkok. It’s a little maddening. The only good news is that your bike probably isn’t stolen. Probably. Listen in to find out how we feel about this totally alien concept to us two expats who’ve been trained to set the parking brake and -- obviously -- take the keys. But it’s not like that stops people from moving your ride. Want more? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatica

S2 E33 · Tue, May 23, 2017

The Bangkok Double Pricing Debate

On this episode we get into one of Thailand's most contentious topics - double pricing. But first we talk about selfies in a ball pit and a hidden hipster hangout. Just down the road for us on our side of the river is a hidden hipster hideout in Bangkok called called The Jam Factory. And by “hidden”, we mean new to Evo. Because it’s pretty well known by everyone other than him. Also Greg visits Central Embassy and attempts to lose his child in a giant plastic bubble bath filled with selfie takers. But as interesting as both of those topics sound, neither are what we’re talking about today. Let’s just get this out of the way: We think double pricing sucks. Thailand is notorious for pricing things like museums, national parks, landmarks, and other civic works differently depending on where a visitor was born. Foreigners -- we stand out a bit -- pay an inflated price, where Thai nationals pay much, much less. Sometimes Thai nationals pay nothing at all. As representatives of the foreigners overcharged, we don’t like it. But we try to understand the rationale for it on this week’s episode and present their side. We’re not sure we did a good job. But here are the excuses main arguments most often offered to justify dual pricing in Thailand: Foreign workers make more money than Thais, so they can afford it. Tourists don’t pay Thailand taxes to support those civic works. (Note: both of us pay taxes in Thailand) It’s a nationalistic benefit reserved for Thai citizens. All of those are valid concerns. However, we’re not buying it. Listen in to learn how we carefully (and hopefully respectfully) dismantle each of those excuses arguments. And though we try very hard not to push our own agenda on our adopted country, here’s what we think could be the consequences if the dual pricing issue isn’t addressed (which it hasn’t been for decades, we get it.) It may be seen as racist to a world becoming more and more aware and intolerant of racism. It’s a deterrent to tourism as it has been to other countries that have done stupid things in the name of squeezing out a few bucks from hapless tourists. It’s a constant PR black eye that will cause (and perhaps is causing) people to seek out their SE Asian vacation/expat home in other neighboring countries. Now, hopefully we didn’t go overboard on complaining. It’s not what we set out to do. And if you have a different opinion, we invite you to leave a comment below or on our social channels. Let’s keep the conversation going. One great way is our new LINE account, just for the Bangkok Podcast . Hey, we’re in Thailand, and LINE is huge here. So of course we have a LINE account. Follow along and talk to us there, too! Love, L

S2 E32 · Tue, May 16, 2017

Why Bangkok Is A Medical Tourism Hotspot

This week we talk to an expert on medical tourism to get the inside scoop on what makes Bangkok a key medical tourism destination. And we share an anecdote that proves even the 2nd largest city in SE Asia is really just a small town on the crossroads of life. What’s it like to return to Bangkok 30 years later after growing up here as an expat kid? And what are the odds that one obscure blog post on how to get a Chinese visa in Bangkok would lead to rekindling a friendship while overlooking the Chao Phraya river? Only in Bangkok. But that’s not what we’re talking about today. Instead, we’re trying to answer this question: What, exactly, makes Bangkok such a hotbed for medical tourism? Neither Evo nor Greg are experts, so we pulled in Kevin McGaffey from renuval to get to the heart of the matter. Kevin’s technology company helps people find the best medical services and best medical service providers here in Thailand. Here are a few of the questions he answers on this episode of our show: What’s different about the Bangkok medical scene that makes our medical skills world class? It has to do with home-grown talent who not only got their training abroad, but come back and do their job so well they often become medical trainers themselves. Some end up here in Thailand and some abroad at the top Western medical schools and facilities. How smart marketing, an abundance of talent, and a commitment to world-class facilities combine with a desirable tourist destination to make the perfect storm for medical tourism What other SE Asian nations are looking to take their own piece of the medical tourism pie, and where Bangkok needs to keeps its edge The types of clientele that come to Bangkok for medical procedures and what their country of origin likely tells you about the medical services they are seeking from Thai providers The difference in the quality of medical care you might expect from government vs private hospitals in Bangkok; and both of those compared to the Western world How some aspects of “Thainess” make for a pleasantly surprising (and rather fantastic) experience for expats who seek out medical services in Bangkok … and two pieces of excellent advice for expats or long-term visitors of Bangkok when it comes to medical insurance and getting discounts on high-cost medical care Love, Loathe, or Leave This week one our Twitter followers (wrongly identified in the audio by Greg [sorry!] but corrected in the show notes, Mattiaz!) suggested we talk about the poor excuse for

S2 E31 · Thu, May 11, 2017

Is Birth Control Evil In Buddhist Bangkok?

This week we talk with Bangkok-based Buddhist monk Phra Pandit about abortions, birth control, and how Buddhism defines evil. And you'll likely think Evo an idiot for his dangerous flirtation with Thailand's terrible traffic fatalities statistics, but what's a farang to do? All of that and more on this episode of the Bangkok Podcast. Evo’s decided to rent a motorbike for the next month. Let’s hope he doesn’t get killed as he foregoes safety for convenience. Favorite quote: It’s like having a cheat code to Bangkok’s traffic. But that’s not what we’re talking about today. Instead, we’re chatting with one of our favorite repeat guests, Phra Pandit. The topic? Abortions, birth control, and how Thai Buddhism defines evil. All of this started when we learned that Planned Parenthood has moved its Asia-Pacific headquarters to Bangkok . Which, given what we know about Buddhism and things like birth control or abortion, there’s a conflict. Or maybe we don’t really know what we think we know. To find out, we brought back one of our favorite  guests, Phra Pandit , to give us the official Buddhist party line on the topic of abortion and birth control. What he has to say will likely surprise you, especially if you’re not all that informed of the differences between Buddhism and other religions. Listen to this episode to become a little more enlightened on the concepts of evil, irredeemable sin, hell, and random soul-searing insults anti-abortion protesters like to shout about when they protest Planned Parenthood clinics in the West. Love Loathe or Leave Many of our fellow Bangkokians aren’t big on queueing. Nor are a lot of other Asian tourists who show up in the City of Angels. Just how tolerant are the two of us Westerners who have a pretty healthy respect for the “social contract” of just waiting your turn in line? Not very, as you could probably guess. What you probably won’t guess was Greg’s reaction when it happened to him (again) the night we recorded this episode. Want more? If it’s your

S2 E30 · Wed, May 03, 2017

Bangkok Tourist Scams Are Still Alive In 2017

On this episode of the Bangkok Podcast we talk about one of the negative aspects of Bangkok, the immortal, ever-present tourist scam. But before we get there, we'll have a brief discussion of feet. Yeah... feet. Pick up any piece of tourist literature and you’ll note warnings of “tourist scams” running rampant in Bangkok. But are they as bad or prevalent as they’re made out to be? Back when Greg was a new expat in Thailand, he played the part of an investigative journalist, purposely attracting the attention o a “tuk tuk scammer” just to document the experience. In fact, here's the story . And he’s still with us, so how bad can they be, right? Severity aside, these damned tourist scams just won’t die. Hopefully you’ll be better educated against them after listening to this episode. We go into detail on the tuk-tuk scam (no, the Palace isn’t closed today), the ping pong scam (no, you don’t want to see it), the official-who-isn’t-really-an-official scam (no, not all badges are real), and the birdseed scam. Yes, the birdseed scam. Not kidding. Love Loathe or Leave Free your feet, free your mind. Open sandals are all the rage here in Thailand, but how do we Westerners feel about it? On this Love, Loathe, or Leave we’ll dip our toes (ha!) into the conversation. Want more? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via Apple Podcasts . Android users are be able get the show any number of ways . And for bonus points, leave us a review on those platforms or however you listen to the show. We’d love to hear from you, either on the contact form on our website or through a comment or message on our Facebook

S2 E29 · Tue, April 25, 2017

Exploring Thailand’s Crazy Gun Culture

From hitmen to red tape and homemade guns to the black market, we bring in a local expert to help us navigate the murky waters of the past and present realities of gun ownership in Thailand. We know you want us to weigh in on the issue of Bangkok’s impending street food ban, but not today. We need to let things settle down before we offer up our opinion on the matter. Instead, we’re going with the safe topic of the right to keep and bear arms -- guns in Thailand. Though the two of us -- Canadian and American -- grew up with firearms, we aren’t familiar at all with the reality of the gun culture of Thailand. Khun A, however, has a considered opinion and is is our guest today. He’s a Thai national and avid gun aficionado, owning several weapons and is a member of the IDPA . We wanted to really understand Thai gun culture from a Thai point of view, and he’s the expert we needed to chat with. Just how big is the Thai gun culture? Well, Thais may not be a gun crazy as 2nd amendment -loving Americans, but it certainly exists. There are shooting ranges, gun clubs, and firearm stores all over Bangkok and the rest of Thailand. But just like any imported good, gun owners pay a premium for the privilege of ownership, with prices several hundred percent higher than other countries, thanks to import duties and other taxes levied by Thailand’s government. Anytime you have skyrocketing prices, you have a black market that seeks to get around them. So yes, you can buy guns illegally -- even illegal assault rifles -- in Thailand. Worse, you can buy “homemade” guns. But think less gunsmithing and more gee-I-hope-this-doesn’t-blow-up-in-my-hand type construction. Of course, you can’t have a conversation about guns without talking about gun violence. While getting accurate numbers specific to gun violence in Thailand are notoriously had to pin down, Khun A sheds some light on Thailand’s hitman history from the ‘60s and ‘70s, which shockingly still exists today. Perhaps more surprising is the notated lack of a cohesive and vocal anti-gun community in Thailand. No, not everyone is pro-gun, but the voice of those who want them banned is rather quiet. Perhaps that’s because Thailand’s red tape processes to actually own a gun are seen as enough of a deterrent? If the four- to six-week waiting period isn’t enough, perhaps asking your employer for permission to own a gun does the trick? We’re not sure why the Ministry of Interior needs to see your bank records before issuing you a permit either. But such is life in Thailand. But here’s the good news: Gun responsibility is preached at every step of the process. As much as headlines may make it seem like it’s the wild, wild west over here; the laws definitely don’t do much to protect you if you are forced to use one in self defense. Khun A’s description of what happens after what seems like a

S2 E28 · Tue, April 18, 2017

Time for Change: Should Begging Foreign Backpackers Take a Hike?

You may have seen them on the streets of Bangkok, Singapore, or Hanoi. Many play instruments, juggle, or sell postcards. Some simply stand there with a hat and a sign asking for pity. We're talking, of course, about the round-the-world adventurer looking for a handout. Should these begging vagabonds take a hike, or do they deserve some leeway to, er, find their way? We also talk about staying dry (or attempting to) during Songkran, and Greg's foot fetish (in that he'd really like to be able to find shoes to fit his giant feet). The story has been tearing up the newspapers and internets lately - the foreign backpacker. Usually white, European/North American, usually with scraggly bears, matted hair, and doing their best to trade a skill for a bit o' spare change, their presence inspires anger and pity in equal amounts. But they are nothing new. Indeed, as far back as 10 years ago, Greg remembers seeing the first 'famous' farang backpacker as he sat there with a sign begging for help to buy his plane ticket back home, as group after group of university students passed by and dropped some hard-earned cash in his hat. "That's nice," thought Greg. But then Greg saw the same guy in a different part of the city. Then another. Then another. Then it dawned on Greg - this guy was a scammer. But now farang beggars are much more common. Many offer legitimate - if not entertaining - services, such as selling handmade wares, playing an instrument, or doing some tricks. But should they even be doing it? In a region as poor as Southeast Asia - where  real poverty is an every day issue for far too many - is it really proper for able-bodied, western-educated foreigners, likely with a healthy support network back home, to be begging for scraps to fund their adventures? Greg and Evo argue the pros and cons, and come up with more cons than pros. Love, Loathe or Leave We think it's safe to say that Bangkok's street food scene would not be as creative (and delicious) as it is without the, er, less-than-stringent food safety ecosystem that many of us westerns are used to. We posit that a food safety inspector from, say, Canada or the US, would have a stroke if he saw how food is prepared here, but should he maybe loosen up a bit? Greg and Evo discuss the safety (and sickness) of street food, and if the lack of regulation is something that helps or hinders eating out. Want More? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via iTunes . Android users are be able get the show any number of ways . And for bonus points, leave us a review on those platforms or however you lis

S2 E27 · Tue, April 11, 2017

Blood on the Highway: Thailand's Seven Deadly Days of Songkran

On this episode of the Bangkok Podcast we talk about traffic in Bangkok - specifically the “Seven Deadly Days” of Songkran - and Thailand's awful road safety statistics. We also talk about what men do when their wives are away... or won't go away. Don't worry... it's not as bad as it sounds. Songkran is upon us, a week-long celebration of Thailand’s new year. What will we be doing during Songkran? Staying off the roads, because it’s also known as the Seven Deadly Days, when road traffic shoots up to three times the normal rate. Yes, that’s likely a contributing factor to Thailand’s hold on the #2 spot in global traffic fatalities per 100,000 people. In an effort to get those crazy numbers under control, Thailand’s military junta announced sweeping changes to vehicle motor code. Effective immediately, police would be issuing fines anyone in any vehicle not wearing a seatbelt, and anyone riding in the back of a pickup truck. And then the very next day -- not surprisingly -- they softened their enforcement language. Perhaps the fact that many taxies have removed seatbelts from the back seat. And a substantial chunk of the population ride in the back of pickups to get to work, into town, to the doctor… And in urban areas, some governmental-sanctioned transportation methods are nothing more than riding in the back of a modified pickup bed, none of which have seatbelts. As it turns out, mandating behavior changes for a country of 65 million people is… messy. Neither of us are so arrogant as to say we have the answers. But that didn’t stop us from offering up some ideas. Got a few yourself? Take a listen to the show (on iTunes, Android, whatever) and tell us if you think our ideas would work or not. And speaking of stupid ideas... Love, Loathe, or Leave? Thailand really, really wants to make us whiter. Something neither of us need. Nor does anyone else, but such is life in Thailand, where it’s hard to buy personal hygiene products that aren’t loaded with whitening agents. And who are these people with super dark armpits? When did that become a problem? Want more? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via iTunes . Android users are be able get the show any number of ways

S2 E26 · Mon, April 03, 2017

Talking Languages With Educator Frank Smith: Thai, Lao & Khmer

On this episode of the Bangkok Podcast we talk languages with Frank Smith. He speaks Thai, Khmer, and Lao, and teaches Khmer at UC Berkeley in California. Add to that a quick conversation on the pros and cons of raising a kid in Thailand, and we’ve got the makings of another great episode of the Bangkok Podcast. We start the show with an easy question: Is Bangkok the kind of place you want to raise a kid? Greg is facing the reality of doing so right now, and Evo has sage advice from someone who decided not to raise a kid in different City of Angels some 20 years ago. Everyone loves a good mystery. And everyone loves a good origin story. But when it comes to the people who live in Cambodia, Thailand’s neighbor to the east, the origin story of their language -- Khmer -- is a complete mystery. Oh, and it’s even harder to learn than Thai. Go figure. Our guest this week is Frank Smith , a language professor at the University of California Berkeley. Frank’s students are often of Cambodian descent, having been raised abroad by displaced parents. Their goal is to reconnect with their heritage, in some cases learning to speak, read, and write in their native language… from a white guy. A white guy who has been speaking, reading and writing Khmer for 30 years, though. With a bit of flair , we think you’ll agree. And if you’re ready to study Khmer, he can help ! He passes along several interesting facts to Bangkokians like ourselves, like busting the myth that the languages native to this part of the world are based on Sanskrit (they aren’t), and that the “Khmer” spoken in Thailand bears little resemblance to the actually Khmer spoken in Cambodia. What does Frank think of our opinions on whether or not foreign workers should bother to learn the local language in SE Asia ? His answer just may surprise you. Love, Loathe, or Leave? It’s a listener suggestion this week from our friend Tim, another Bangkok expat. The topic? April. Yes, the month. Is this nutty month marked by oppressive heat and a state-sanctioned water fight something we love, loathe, or are ready to leave over? Listen to find out. Spoiler: it’s a split decision. Want more? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via iTunes . Android users should be able <a href= "https://goo.gl/app/playmusic?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&link=https%3A%2F%2Fplay.google.com%2Fmusic%2Fm%2FIec4hztjaepf6x5stwxyknppvhu%3Ft%3DBangkok_Podcast_%257C_Thailand_Life_Lessons_From_Two_Expats_from_Canada_%2526_America%26

S2 E25 · Mon, March 27, 2017

The Little Things We Miss About Home...And Will Miss About Thailand

On this episode, we discuss the little things we love about Bangkok, as well as the little things we miss about where we're from. Plus Evo’s recent trip to Siem Reap and the concept of farang “embarassadors”. Evo spent a week in Siem Reap and completely loved it. Greg agrees that it’s likely the most amazing destination in SE Asia -- possibly the world -- for those interested in archaeology. Color us impressed, ancient Khmer people! The main topic of the show: It’s the little things. No, not a Royale with Cheese, but the little things we miss about where we’re from, now that we live in The Land Of Smiles that is Thailand. Not to spoil everything from the episode completely, but here’s the list of things we miss: Clothes dryers Psychological weather cues E asy access to drugs Easy access to my money But the reverse is true, and there are little things about living in Bangkok that we’re going to miss should we ever leave The Big Mango. Again, you’ll have to listen for the full details why we’re really liking: Pain-free condo moving Rules bent cheaply Instant, ubiquitous transport options Space not at a premium If that doesn’t make perfect sense, just listen. You’ll get it it. And then you’ll know why we love this place. Speaking of that... Love, Loathe, or Leave? First, heck yes! Let’s keep the #loveloatheorleave hashtag going! Drop one on any social media property. We’ll probably see it. Kinda like the shirtless farang. The clueless, class-less, totally-missing-the-point of living in Bangkok idiot who isn’t wearing a shirt. Guess where they fall on our #loveloatheorleave scale. Listen in to find out some surprising facts about how the law can get involved if you choose to go topless, fellas. Want more? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you rea

S2 E24 · Mon, March 20, 2017

Teaching In Thailand: A Professional Western Teacher’s Perspective

What do pro Western teachers think about teaching in Thailand? And are we seeing the end of Uber in Bangkok? And if so, will canal taxis pick up the slack? All that and more on this episode of The Bangkok Podcast Taxis in Bangkok would probably make for a good Love, Loathe, or Leave segment, but recent moves by Thailand to restrict popular “ridesharing” services make it worthy of our opening banter. After that, Greg has a chat with Sheila Dee a Western-trained, professional educator working in Thailand. There are lots of Westerners acting as English teachers in Thailand. Greg used to be one of them. But Sheila’s a bit different, holding a Bachelor's degree in elementary education and a Master’s degree in curriculum and instruction. In the Thai private school where she teaches, five subjects -- English, Math, Science, Physical Education, and Computers -- are taught by native English teachers. Social studies and Thai (as in the language) are taught in Thai, and her students also study Chinese (actually in Chinese, if that’s not obvious). For her school as well as the many international schools in Bangkok, that level of immersion and integration requires educators trained in their subject field, not just someone who happens to be a native English-speaker. As a Western trained teacher, Sheila’s learning how to modify her style. As an American teacher, she knows how to deal with American students. But not all of that directly translates to teaching in Thailand, with different expectations from administration, parents, and students. Some of those are a net positive, like the premium administration places on Western teachers and the noticeable lack of discipline issues, for example. But some require her to change her expectations, like translating the concept of “saving face” into classroom management and not trying to “fix” everything. It’s not easy being a teacher, which is why Thailand is starting to change how they look for teachers. Yes, there are still plenty of teachers with a degree in something (anything) and a TEFL certificate. However, Sheila’s seeing an emphasis on seeking out real teachers (like her) with real experience of prior teaching in the Western world. Love, Loathe, or Leave? It’s our first listener submission! ThailightZone wants us to talk about the khlong boats, specifically those that shuttle busy commuters along the saen saep canal. It’s a uniquely local Thai experience, but you’ll have to listen to see how we feel about this odd transportation style. <span s

S2 E23 · Wed, March 15, 2017

Magic Ink: Evo Visits the Mystical Sak Yant Tattoo Festival

You may or may not have heard about the Sak Yant tattoo festival before, but after hearing this episode of the Bangkok Podcast, you sure as darn heck won't be able to forget about it. For years travelers have been entertained by tales of screaming men rushing the stage, possessed by the spirits of the tattoos that cover their bodies in sheets of intricate sub-dermal ink. But it's not merely an odd tourist attraction - the men who have them, the monks who give them, and the shamans who 'recharge' them all hold the tattoos - and the power they say they represent - in the highest regard. With an origin story that involves a Burmese invasion, sinking boats, lost Buddha images, and man-eating tigers, it sounds like something from a novel by Graham Greene or Joseph Conrad, but it's all - very probably - true. Evo and his lovely wife Sheila headed up to Wat Bang Phra in Nakhon Pathom - about 50km west of Bangkok - to check out the festivities and boy did they get the goods. Hanging out with devotees on Friday evening and then recording their screams, gurgles, laughs, and chants on the Saturday, Evo gives a description of what it's like in the middle of the action. Those screams, gurgles, laughs and chants can be heard in the podcast, by the way. Here's a few pictures - but head over to Sheila's Flickr album to see more. Love, Loathe or Leave? Evo springs his LLoL on Greg - what does he think of the national anthem that plays every day at 8am and 6pm? Is it an annoying distraction, a treasured cultural identifier, or something in between? Have a listen to the song in the video below if you're not familiar, then follow along with their discussion at home! https://youtu.be/BrcGzLIEsAU?t=10 Want more? If it’s your first time experiencing The Bangkok Podcast, you really should get our show downloading to your phone automatically every week. If you use iOS, it’s a breeze to listen via iTunes . Android users should be able <a href= "https://goo.gl/app/playmusic?ibi=com.google.PlayMusic&isi=691797987&ius=googleplaymusic&link=https%3A%2F%2Fplay.google.com%2Fmusic%2Fm%2FIec4hztjaepf6x5stwxyknppvhu%3Ft%3DBangkok_Podcast_%257C_Thailand_

S2 E22 · Wed, March 08, 2017

Talking with Paul Mueller: How Much Time Does Bangkok's Green Lung Have Left?

When you look at Bangkok on a map, you see this enigmatic little patch of green just off center. It’s not a trick. It really exists. Historically, few people fought the traffic to get here. But that’s changing, and modern encroachment on the green lungs of Bangkok is threatening this not-quite-hidden gem of Bangkok. Life in Thailand is hot. Welcome to the tropics! But this year seems to have gotten hotter earlier. Or maybe we’re just getting old and are fixating on the weather. Of more importance to this issue is a lovely place in Bangkok to visit that allows some respite from the heat. That place is Prapadaeng -- also called Bang Krachao -- Bangkok’s “green lung”. We mentioned it briefly on a previous episode, promising to return to the topic with a much more in depth discussion. To give the topic the proper consideration, Greg invites his friend Paul to talk about this hidden-in-plain-sight key area of Bangkok that is, saddly, in danger of losing it’s luster. Because development. Today on the show we speak with six-year resident Paul Mueller . This American expat made this amazing meander in the Chao Phraya river his home after a solo bike trip led him to a rickety looking dock with an even more rickety looking ferry attached, but with an enticing green area on the other side of the river. He was stunned by the peace, quiet and space -- things that are hard to find in urban Bangkok, where we literally live on top of one another. But not in Bang Krachao. Cars are rare in the interior, and even motorbikes aren’t terribly common. Instead people walk or ride bikes to get from place to place, harkening to a simpler time. But those small bikeways are getting blocked, trees are being uprooted, and that abundance of space is threatened. Not by condos (yet), but by people who are choosing to make their home there, taking advantage of the tranquility of the area. As in the rest of Thailand, if someone is properly connected, they can probably side-step a few zoning restrictions. The floating market is growing in popularity -- and that’s a good thing -- but that’s bringing it’s own challenges. More cars. More room for those cars to park. And of course more businesses to sell stuff to the people who drive those cars. You know… development. There’s a lot of pressure on the area, and we can only hope that the commitment to keeping Bangkok’s green lung, well… green, stays the course. In the meantime, you might want to plan your trip sooner rather than later. Just in case. Here’s a short video you can watch that talks about the challenges the green lungs of Bangkok are facing . Or you can just listen to the show to learn more from Paul’s perspective. That’s a good idea! Love, Loathe, or Leave? Let’s not beat around the bush. Som

S2 E21 · Mon, February 27, 2017

"I Want to Get Back to Nature in Bangkok." Is That Even Possible?

While Thailand is a great place to experience the natural beauty of the tropics, Bangkok is a giant metro area and not all that appealing to nature lovers with a short time to visit. Or is it? That’s the topic of this episode of The Bangkok Podcast. Evo’s still sick, but he’s on the mend thanks to a doctor. Because as you’ll recall from an episode just a few weeks ago, antibiotics are available over the counter here. But you know what isn’t? A diagnoses of illness from a qualified physician. Luckily there is no shortage of great doctors in Bangkok. And they are quite cheap. Some people are just stubborn. Ahem. And did you see the article that claimed Thailand has the worst traffic in the world ? We do a little debunking on that before we get to the heart of the matter. Finding nature in the confines of Bangkok’s concrete jungle. What, exactly, should a nature lover visiting Bangkok do if they only have a few short days? That’s the question Evo’s friend and Finland-based travel blogger Lottie put to us. No, she doesn’t really want to hit all the rooftop bars, shopping malls, countless temples, or the seedier side of tourism that form Bangkok’s well-deserved reputation. We have a few ideas, including: Prapadaeng (also called Bang Krachao) - Bangkok’s “green lung” Phutthamonthon - “Spiritual center of Thailand”, says Greg Chao Phraya river - It’s always breezy and cool on this big, navigable river that bisects Bangkok Ayutthaya - Archaeology and history only 3 hours away by train Lots of great parks we mention in the show, some rather hidden Lovely beaches not too far away, but you’ll want to do an overnight, probably So… yeah. Bangkok offers more than just shopping, sex tourism, temples, and rooftop bars. Just keep the weather in mind when you visit. Because it’s always summer here. Speaking of that... Love, Loathe, or Leave? Holy volcanos, it’s hot here. We have no volcanos, but we do leave very close to the sun, apparently. There weren’t any seasons to speak of this year in Bangkok, which has an impact. Listen in to find out how we feel ab

S2 E20 · Tue, February 21, 2017

Crafty Bangkok Beer: Talking with Brian Bartusch from Beervana

Like everywhere, craft beer is exploding in Bangkok. But there are some subtle nuances that cause beer lovers to scratch their heads. Why is it so expensive? What’s up with “illegal” beer? And where can I get more? We’ll answer that and more on this episode of The Bangkok Podcast. After a brief and elusive discussion of the infamous Thailand beach town Pattaya, we jump into the heart of the conversation: Beer in Thailand. Specifically, craft beer in Thailand. To make sure we cover things in an appropriate (read: true) way, we invited Brian Bartusch -- co-founder of Bangkok’s largest craft beer importer, Beervana -- on to the show to answer some key questions Evo -- our resident beer nerd -- had about the state of craft beer in Thailand. Together with a few other entrepreneurial importers, Beervana makes it easy for the visiting craft beer fan to not be forced to drink the standard Thai beers. Not that we’re dissing the local beers. But craft beer fans are going to find Chang, Leo, Singha, and locally-produced Heineken or Asahi rather lacking. Evo and Brian met up at Roadhouse BBQ . By way of example, they offer a half dozen quality craft beers on tap and a rather large selection of craft beer from all over the world. While you’ll probably find a wider selection back in America simply due to proximity to some other local breweries, you won’t be disappointed in the selection. But you probably will suffer a bit of a sticker shock. Imported craft beer in Thailand is more expensive than the same beer back home. Why? Well, two main reasons: The first is shipping. It’s a long way from here to there, and it has to be kept cold the entire journey. Then you layer in the import taxes and compliance fees, which are not trivial. Brian digs into it a little deeper on the show if you want more information. Just keep it in mind the next time you plop down ฿350 for a bottle you’d expect to pay $6 for back in The States. Other topics relevant to craft beer in Bangkok and beyond: Craft beer consumption is only about .02% of overall beer consumption in Thailand. (Source: ChitBeer ) Homebrewing is illegal in Thailand. People can be and are thrown in jail for brewing. Which means local Thai craft beer -- which is all home brewed -- is illegal… yet available everywhere. Honestly, we have mixed feelings about this. Some Thai brewers of quality craft beer are working with the system, doing contract brewing outside of the country and re-importing. It’s crazy, but it’s legal. And tasty! The big Thai brewers have taken notice of the craft beer movement and are taking a Blue Moon approach for now. <li style="font-weight: 4

S2 E19 · Mon, February 13, 2017

Is Learning Thai Really Necessary?

To learn to speak Thai or not learn to speak Thai. That is the question. No, literally. It’s the question we’re asking each other on behalf of all people who come to live in Thailand. As you'll hear, we have a difference of opinion. So yeah, we’re the #1 travel podcast in Thailand. That’s kinda cool. But it’s not what we’re talking about today… (but thanks for subscribing!) We ask ourselves a simple question on this week’s show: If you’re going to “live” in Thailand, do you need to learn Thai? Not surprisingly, we have differing opinions on the matter. Greg, the 16 year expat, staunchly feels anyone wishing to live in Thailand needs to learn the language. Evo, not surprisingly, takes the opposite view. Then again, he only has a year under his belt, so take his opinion with a shot of nam pla. Some arguments for include the ability to keep yourself out of trouble by knowing what warning signs say, having a deeper understanding of Thai culture , and generally paying homage to the fact that you’re living in a country with something other than your native tongue as the official language. Arguments against include the fact that most (but not all) signs that you really need to see are also presented in English, Thai students have been forced to learn English (or at least enroll in English classes) for decades, and that technology makes for easy as-you-need it translation. Not surprisingly, there’s more to it that that. Listen to the show to see which side of the argument you identify with. For bonus points, leave us a comment on the blog, or even a review on iTunes with your thoughts on who’s right. Because we strive for your approval! Kidding. Oh, and that better translation app Evo mentioned? It comes from Thai-Language.com , a great web resource.  They have an iOS app , but we're not sure about Android. Get it. Love, Loathe, or Leave? Thai pajamas. Or the “farang uniform”. Lightweight, colorful and comfortable pants  that gather around the waist that no self-respecting Thai person would be caught dead in. I think we’re giving away our opinions on these horrid garments. Clean it up a bit, tourists. This is Bangkok. Put on the big person pants when you go out in public, OK? Want more? Leave a review here or send us a message on the contact tab at the top m

S2 E18 · Mon, February 06, 2017

Being Disabled in Bangkok: A Conversation with Sawang Srisom

No one is going to say that Bangkok is an easy city to navigate. Near-constant congestion, poorly paved sidewalks, non-existent pedestrian crossing areas… that’s just a start. Now imagine that from the point of view of someone who uses a wheelchair. Suddenly these difficulties seem like insurmountable obstacles. The show starts with a recap of the new “blowing up on social media” scandal: It seems some mototaxi drivers are placing a surcharge on passengers with additional mass . But that’s not the injustice we’re talking about on this episode. On today’s show we chat with Sawang Srisom, Secretary for Transportation for All (T4A), a grassroots organization that’s forcing Thailand’s bureaucracy to actually follow the law and make the city -- specifically the BTS skytrain system -- fully accessible to people with disabilities. Laws aimed at supporting the rights of the disabled have only been on the books in Bangkok since 1991, and that one didn’t even address accessibility. That didn’t happen until 2005. Yes, you read that right: There were no laws governing accessibility requirements just over a decade ago. And since the BTS system construction started 10 years before that, enabling officials a convenient excuse for not including things like elevators in all but five of the 29 stations. Amazing. To get action, T4A started filing lawsuits against the BMA (Bangkok Metropolitan Authority who oversee the BTS system) for failure to comply. The goal wasn’t financial compensation, but to force change. It went all the way to the Supreme Court, and it’s now been ruled that all stations must have lifts installed on both sides of the tracks. If you’ve used the BTS and thought “but I see lifts and other accessibility additions. What’s the problem?” Listen to the show to find out how insane it is for wheelchair users like Sawang to try and use those accessibility additions you’ve seen. It often involves taking a taxi just to cross the street. Fair warning? It’s maddening to listen to. The good news is that Thailand has the right policies on the books. The problem -- and stop us if you’ve heard this one before -- is getting bureaucrats to follow them. Good luck, Bangkok. You’ve got a lot of work ahead of you. But clearly it’s the right thing to do. Because accessibility is for everyone. Love, Loathe, or Leave? Not this week. Evo’s voice (as you

S2 E17 · Mon, January 30, 2017

Red Cliff Coffee: Talking With Derek Kirk About Chiang Rai's Most Delicious Export

So a guy from Alaska who owns a coffee plantation in Hawaii hires a guy from Indiana who’s living in Thailand to help him grow coffee. There’s no punchline. Just a great episode of the Bangkok Podcast! (Direct download .mp3) (Direct download .mp3) After Evo explains why he was in Finland and gives us a crash course on world travel expos (like Matka 2017 ) and blogger conferences (like NBE Finland) , and Greg runs down his recent motorbiking misadventures in Chiang Rai, we get down to business. What business? Serious business. Coffee.   Greg had a conversation with Derek Kirk, a fellow expat who manages a coffee plantation that puts out Red Cliff Coffee , a personal favorite of Greg’s that Evo needs to try. Starting as an English teacher, Derek fell in love with Northern Thailand and wanted to find a way to stay. In his spare time, he started working with coffee farmers from the Akha Hill Tribe. Some of them had recently started planting coffee as a cash crop but didn’t have much experience. Derek made the decision to learn as much as he could about coffee production, vowing to return to Northern Thailand and spread that knowledge. He moved to Kona, Hawaii, became a sponge for coffee knowledge, and brought 10,000 trees back to Thailand to start his enterprise. The beans that come from this experiment are, in his opinion (backed up by Greg’s insatiable appetite), the best beans grown in Thailand, far outpacing the standard Thai coffee fare. More importantly, coffee -- quality coffee -- is giving a huge economic boost to the region. As evidence; other farmers in the village are seeing the success of their neighbors and getting in on the action, and small vendors on the side of the road in heavily Thai areas -- even outside of Bangkok -- are selling quality cappuccino for 55 baht. Not great news if you want cheap coffee. But outstanding news if you -- like us -- appreciate a quality cuppa and wish to see it spread. But don’t think this is the story of one (mo

S2 E16 · Mon, January 23, 2017

Talking with Phra Pandit: Is Having Everything the Same as Desiring Nothing?

Continuing with our Buddhism series, we welcome Phra Pandit, a Brit who has been a monk in Thailand for the past 20 years and is a noted lecturer on Buddhism, dhamma, and psychology. Desire - or the lack of it - is one of the key themes that the Buddha taught his followers. But as we find out in this very interesting discussion with Phra Pandit, it's not as easy as saying "I can do without those cool new pair of shoes." (Direct download .mp3) (Direct download .mp3) Since Evo is off galavanting around Europe, Greg talks to Pandit about what it means to have nothing, how it feels to want nothing, and why having or wanting nothing doesn't necessarily make you a better Buddhist than someone who has everything. Indeed, Greg poses a question - when someone has more money than they will ever use, things that are valuable to the 'average' person - like an iPhone - become almost meaningless. Since this person places no great value in craving the iPhone, or grief when he loses it - is that a similar state of mind as not desiring an iPhone? It's a great conversation about exactly what desire is - and how wanting something isn't always a bad thing. Phra Pandit also gives a shoutout to his friend Marisa Cranfill ( a previous guest on the Bangkok Podcast ), one of the foremost (non-Thai) experts on Thai spirit houses. She will be giving a seminar later this month about this topic, where you can finally learn the answers to the big questions: why is red Fanta left out more than other drinks? Why do zebras get left so often? Why are some houses supported by one pillar, and others four? Head to www.littlebang.org to read more about Marisa's speech on Saturday January 28th at the Rojana Center . And since this episode airs a few days before Chinese New Year, Greg - who lived in Yaowarat, Bangkok's Chinatown, for 4 years - gives his advice for really getting the most out of a visit to one of Bangkok's most interesting neighborhoods, and the center of the city's Chinese New Year celebrations. And just for an extra visual, here are the incense sticks that Greg talks about. Note the dudes on the bottom left for scale. <img class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-2901" src= "http://www.bangkokpodcast.com/wp-content/uploads/2017/01/Chinese-Temple-11.jpg" alt="C

S2 E15 · Mon, January 16, 2017

Expat Realities: Reverse Culture Shock

If you've lived any amount of time overseas and returned to your home country, you're likely familiar with reverse culture shock, the feeling that you just...somehow...don't quite fit in to your old life anymore. It's a disorienting feeling, and it affects everyone differently. Seeing as how Greg was back in Canada three months ago and Evo just returned from a trip to the USA, we thought'd we discuss this uniquely strange phenomenon, how it affected us, and how we deal with it. (Direct download .mp3) Greg recounts how the relationships with his friends have changed, details of "the most Canadian standoff ever", and how it's always the little things that trip you up - like the fact that people wear shoes inside the house, which really freaked him out. Evo mirrors this "little things" mantra, like the incredibly weird feeling of drinking water from a tap, and how much he forgot he loves listening to the radio...and how quickly he realized it actually sucks. We also do another round of Love, Loathe, Leave, and discuss - rather shamefully - how much joy Greg got from showing his visiting sister around Bangkok's shopping malls.

S2 E14 · Tue, January 10, 2017

Four Things We Tell Everyone to Avoid in Bangkok

Everyone loves Bangkok and it is indeed a great city. However, that's not to say everything is worth seeing or doing. For this show we each come up with two items, places, or pastimes that we tell visiting friends and family or even expats new to the city of Angels that they can go ahead and avoid without losing out on everything that Bangkok has to offer. (Direct download .mp3) (Direct download .mp3) Evo’s finally back from his three week trip to America and mostly over his jet lag. At least to record another episode. Today we’re talking about some things we think it’s OK for you to to skip when you visit The Big Mango. Because there’s simply too many things in Bangkok to take in in a single trip, so you won’t have a lack of things to do. First up, Evo smashes the myth about getting smashed on cheap Thai beer. Because, shockingly, beer isn’t inexpensive here in Thailand. You’ll spend at least a buck -- IN A GROCERY STORE OR 7-11 -- per beer. That’s a little more than you’ll spend to buy crappy beer back in most Western nations. Which isn’t cheap! (Though it is cheap in quality.) Second, Greg commits near sacrilege by suggesting that there are other historic temples and places to visit that are not The Grand Palace. Yes, it’s a lovely place. Yes, it’s filled with history. Yes, it’s akin to Mecca for many Thais. But it’s the giant mob of people -- tourists and Thais -- that sully the experience. If you don’t mind standing in the heat (without umbrellas) for a few hours with a few thousand of your closest friends, go on with your bad self. Third, Evo suggests skipping ping-pong shows. It’s arguably the worst of the publically available sexploitation offerings endemic to Bangkok. They aren’t sexy (like, at all). They aren’t fun for more than a handful of seconds. And they are a huge and expensive scam. And you will be poorer -- in pocketbook and in humanity -- after the experience. [shudder] Fourth, Bangkok is a hot-spot for networking events, especially among the expat community. And Greg hates them. The experience is always the same, which is less about meeting cool people and more paying to have people shove business cards in your hand for services you don’t want or need. Granted, some people excel at networking events. But Greg finds something extra distasteful about the ones he’s attended in Bangkok. We do make special allowances for cool events, like the Bangkok International Travel Group, Random Thainess, and Pecha Kucha Bangkok. Hrm. Maybe we should get the people who run those events on a future episode. Love, Loath

S2 E13 · Mon, January 02, 2017

Thailand Memories: Living Through a Coup

Happy New Year everyone! The turning over of the calendar is traditionally a time to look forward and hope that the next year will be better than the last one. 2017 will be a big year in Thailand - HM King Rama X will steer the country forward, the push to change elements of Thailand's important Buddhist sangha is gathering steam, and an election  might happen. (Direct download .mp3) Why is that such a big deal? Well, because despite outward appearances and contrary to what a lot of people probably think, Thailand is a military dictatorship. Okay, dictatorship might be a strong word, but the fact of the matter is that the Land of Smiles and one of the world's busiest tourist destinations has been under military control since the most recent coup of 2014. So  if an election happens this year, it will be a big deal. So, seeing as Thailand has had 19 attempted and successful coups in the last century or so, we thought we'd look back and discuss what it's like to actually live through one in the hopes that we won't have to live  another one. From the first message on his phone warning that a military takeover is underway to the time he made a panicked phone call to a friend to ask them what's going on, Greg has seen 2 coups in his time in-country. He and Evo discuss what it's actually like to know that a big change is happening while at the same time hoping that no one starts shooting, and how an actual coup - at least the past 2 in Thailand - are much different than what you learn about in high school.

S2 E12 · Mon, December 26, 2016

Is Dhammakaya a Cult, a Sect, or Just Another Temple?

We're super happy to welcome back a popular guest from season 1 of the Bangkok Podcast - our veritable friend Phra Pandit. As a long-time monk in Thailand and noted lecturer on dhamma, Buddhism, meditation, and deep thought, Pandit is a great source if insight and information. (Direct download .mp3) On this show we (well, Greg, as Evo is traveling) will talk with Pandit about what happens when a particular Buddhist temple becomes really big. So big, in fact, that the government wants to shut it down. In this case it's the Dhammakaya temple, which has millions of devotees all over Thailand and is led by a rather controversial monk. As of the date of this post, police have been camped outside the temple for several weeks as deadline after deadline for the surrender of the head monk have come and gone and nothing's happened. It's kind of like the world's most boring standoff...but something's got to give eventually. Pandit gets into some details on the political machinations behind the target on the temple's back, as well as why the stakes are so high for the temple's head abbot, the magic ingredient that lets a temple go from being popular to a nationwide social phenomenon - and just how many people does Dhammakaya's 'flying saucer' meditation area hold, anyway? (Hint: a lot . Check out the picture of the saucer area below). Don’t forget to leave a comment or tweet to us –  @BkkGreg or @EvoTerra !

S2 E11 · Sun, December 18, 2016

Merry Christmas From Bangkok!

It's that time of year again in Thailand - the holidays season! Did you notice the extra 's' there? It was intentional, because December is one of the most holiday-heavy months in the whole year. Not only do you have Father's Day and Constitution Day, but you also have Christmas - or at least the most intense commercial aspects of it. That rolls right into the (western) New Year, which rolls into the (Chinese) New Year, and a few weeks after that we roll right into (Thai) New Year. (Direct download .mp3) Evo and Greg discuss what it's like living in a Buddhist country that celebrates - with almost equal gusto - holidays imported from different countries, cultures, and religions, and what it's like spending time at the shopping malls, which heavily, heavily promote everyone's favorite part of Christmas - buying stuff. And that's all. Holidays on Christmas Day? You must be mad! It's a regular work day, son. And speaking of sons, Greg also ponders whether or not it's worth the trouble lying to introducing his son to the concept of Santa, his magical reindeer, and his circumnavigation of the globe in a single night - especially since Santa, as far as most Thais are concerned, is nothing more than a cheesy Ronald McDonald-like cartoon designed to sell toys. Well actually...they're not far off. We also discuss Bangkok's air quality. A recent Al Jazeera  story said it was better that many major European cities...but Evo looked around (including on the World Air Quality Index ) and thinks there's something fishy about the claim. Don't forget to leave a comment or tweet to us - @BkkGreg or @EvoTerra!    

S2 E10 · Mon, December 12, 2016

Magic, Mysticism & Mana: Superstition in Thailand

At the risk of offending some 70 million Thais, we’re looking at the religious, spiritual, and magical thinking endemic to Thailand. At least from the point of view of a couple of skeptical, non-religious Westerners. Buddhism isn’t the official religion of Thailand. But the overwhelming majority of people are Buddhist. Still, what you think of as Buddhism may not match up to the reality of the world. This is Theravada Buddhism that draws heavily on Hinduism and has more than a dash of animism mixed in. That makes things rather interesting. (Direct download .mp3) One thing Westerners often comment on is all the shrine-like dollhouses at every condo, office building, and house around the city. Those are called “spirit houses” and they are meant to be a home for… well, spirits. If you want the full details, check out our interview with Marisa Cranfill, an expert on the topic of spirit houses in Thailand . Have you noticed the (mostly) guys all blinged out with heavy necklaces sporting a variety of “charms”. Those are amulets, and they are believed to either attract good tidings (e.g. wealth) or offer protection from oddly specific maladies. It’s like taking the lucky rabbit’s foot and Ash Wednesday and cranking them up to eleven. And if not on their person, a lot of Thais let protections/powers like that get under their skin. Literally. Thailand is famous for the magical sak yant tattoo, and the annual highlight for sak yant aficionados is the Sak Yant Tattoo Festival in Wat Bang Phra , just north of Bangkok. No, it’s not your typical tattoo festival. Picture thousands of Pentecostals in the throws of speaking in tongues, but ambulatory and hell-bent on rushing toward the stage, regardless if you’re directly in their path or not. It’s the most intense, odd thing Evo’s experience during his time in Thailand. But we draw the line at the recent craze of Luuk Thep dolls. Clearly, these people haven’t seen Child’s Play . Chucky needs a date, I think. We wrap the show with another installation o

S2 E9 · Sun, December 04, 2016

Foreign Fool: A Conversation with Author Alan Platt

When it comes to characters, Bangkok has them in droves - people who have been places, eaten things, talked to people, and lived adventures that would make your mother put her hand to her mouth and proclaim, "Oh my" with a frightened little squeak. On this episode of the Bangkok Podcast we're happy to have one of these epic characters on the show with us - Mr Alan Platt, who, as it happens, has just released a book about his adventures entitled  Foreign Fool . (Direct download .mp3) Now I know what you're thinking, and it's the same thing we think when we hear self-published book by a farang in Bangkok , and that is, "Oh, yes, another one for the dusty back section of Asia Books, along with all the stories about hard-boiled detectives, heart-of-gold prostitutes, and love gone bad." But no - that's not what this book is about at all. In fact, take it from me (Greg), who has read the book - this is one hell of a fun read, and is actually - get this - really well written . From Saigon to Bangkok to Panama to London to Honolulu,  Foreign Fool tells of, as Alan puts it, the bumbling misadventures of a doofus. I'll just let the first two paragraphs of the first chapter say it themselves: In Saigon, many years after the war was over, long after the city was declared safe for tourists and when even the hookers were becoming almost discreet, I was kidnapped. That does sound a bit dramatic, I admit. Technically, it was more an abduction. But however one puts it, any mention of that sort of thing floods the mind with images of some poor guy being jumped by thugs, bundled into the trunk of a car and splattered across the tabloids with a screech of tires and the burning of rubber. None of that happened to me. I was kidnapped on a bicycle. Alan discusses how he went from sunning his broke ass on a Los Angeles beach to the top of the New York ad world, how the book took shape, and a few of the stories - both in the book and not - that keep him looking ahead to the next trip. Visit the book's website at  ForeignFool.com Buy  Foreign Fool on Amazon .

S2 E8 · Sun, November 27, 2016

Drugs in Thailand: Too Much, Too Little, or Not Enough?

Sex, drugs, and rock n’ roll. Two of those are legal in Bangkok. Sort of. Legal drugs have a dark side, like people dying from overuse. But illegal drugs -- some pretty serious ones -- might soon be legal in Thailand. What's the deal with all this back and forth? (Direct download .mp3) (Direct download .mp3) Here’s the reality of living in Thailand: Whenever we -- Westerners or Thais  -- get sick, our first stop is the hospital or the pharmacy. Chances are, either the doctor or the pharmacist will have a remedy in pill form ready for you. And quite often, they’re unnecessary. Got a cough? Take these antibiotics. Can’t sleep? Try this anti-anxiety medication. They’re cheap, so why not? Because they are literally killing us , that’s why. But on the flip side, it’s great for asthmatics to pick up a rescue inhaler without a prescription. Just don’t expect to pick up any Sudafed. Or as they call it in Thailand: the precursor to methamphetamines. Speaking of that… Thailand has a rich history of illicit drugs. But just because there’s a strain of marijuana named for the country, the authorities aren’t too keen on smokers of the herb. And this is Thailand, probably not the place you want to cool it in a cell for a while contemplating your poor choices in life. Yet there are discussions at the highest level of government to consider decriminalizing marijuana. And, as strange and unfathomable as it sounds, meth (yaba, as it’s locally known) might also enjoy recreational status in the future. Go figure. We’re keeping the Love, Loathe, or Leave segment rolling, this time with a discussion about climate change inside the skytrain, and the bane of all who walk on the sidewalk, being brick-flicked. If you're a fellow Bangkokian, you likely have intimate experience with these two items. Drop us a line and tell us what you think. Or if you’ve an opinion on the issues of drugs -- legal or other -- tell us about it in the comments below, or tweet  to us at @bkkgreg or <span

S2 E7 · Sun, November 20, 2016

Bangkok's Disappearing Street Food

(Direct download .mp3) If you’re visiting Bangkok for the ubiquitous street food culture, you might want to get here quickly. There’s seemingly a war on street food vendors in the city. And that’s no jok. Bear with us this week. Evo’s dealing with a great loss in his family and a broken microphone, and Greg’s a little sleepy from being the dad of a childhood actor. But that’s not what we want to talk about today... This episode is all about Bangkok’s disappearing street food stalls, one of the city’s most famous elements, the lifeblood of many, and part of the city’s undefinable charm. It’s also a perfect time to introduce a new segment on this episode, one we call Love, Loathe, or Leave . That is: how do we feel about sharing sidewalks with street food cards and other vendors cramping our walking style? Are they and the convenience and culinary variety they offer part of why we love living in Bangkok? Do we kind of loathe sharing our space but can tolerate the nuisance? Or do we see them as such a danger to life and limb that we’re ready to leave the country over it? Best line of the show: “It’s called a side- walk , not a side- wok , after all.” But there’s a human cost to consider: What happens to all the people -- tens of thousands -- who’ve made their living vending on the streets, fully sanctioned and licensed by the government? We’re told the vendors will be provided a new place to ply their wares. But will they have the same level of business? And most importantly, what will Greg do for breakfast since he can’t find his favorite jok dealer? To us, this sure seems an issue of ongoing gentrification. Suan Lum night market shut down years ago ostensibly to make way for a development project… that never happened. And then there’s Asiatique, a bright, crowded, new-but-made-to-look-old destin

S2 E6 · Mon, November 14, 2016

Are You Sure You Wanna Say That? Self-Censorship in Thailand

The shockwaves of the President-Elect of America have shockwaved all the way over here to Bangkok, Thailand. However, that’s not what we’re talking about today, though we could talk about if we want to. And that’s what we want to talk about. Confused? Yeah…   (Direct download .mp3) On October 13, the Kingdom of Thailand suffered a great loss with the death of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. Because we’re a show ostensibly about Bangkok and the country of Thailand overall, we recorded an episode of our podcast with that topic in mind. And then we thought better of it. Not because we were in any way critical, satirical, or otherwise potentially running up against Thailand’s lese majeste laws. Indeed, the show was respectful to a fault, and talked about how much Rama IX meant to the Thai people. But we thought that maybe, in this particular situation, it’s not all that important for us, two foreigners living in the Kingdom, to have an opinion. Those of you reading this from “the free world” (though we each feel relatively free over here) are probably looking at that last statement with disdain. But if you listen to this week’s show -- the episode about the episode you’ll never hear -- you’ll find it’s not all that uncommon to self-censor. In fact, we do it all the time. And maybe, in a world where the friction between thought and something for public consumption is all too easy, we should do it more often.

S2 E5 · Sun, November 06, 2016

Travel Blogging: A Realistic Job or a Bunch of Hot Air?

Ask enough people in Bangkok what they do for a living, and one will eventually say “travel blogging”. On this episode of the podcast, we break down some of the myths and mystique surrounding that title. (Direct download .mp3) Evo recently traveled to Manila in the Philippines to deliver the opening keynote at TBEX Asia Pacific 2016. It’s a travel blogging conference, catering to, well… travel bloggers. Which are legion. Coupled with the service providers, tourism councils, and hospitality companies; and there’s sizeable market. Travel blogging means different things: Some make a full time living traveling from place to place writing content for their blogs. Some are local experts writing content on their blog for people traveling to their city. And some don’t even have a blog at all, doing all of their posting on social media or publishing content on third-party sites. For all their diversity, travel bloggers aren’t universally loved. Cynics say that DMOs (destination marketing organizations) shower these people with gifts, swag, free food, and more simply to gain overly-positive views that lack real substance. Is that a valid concern? Are the benefits provided by these so-called influencers just self promotional crap? Or are the two parties -- the blogger and the client -- reaping real benefits of the partnership? There’s a third element: the audience. It’s the smart travel blogger who provides his/her audience with the content their audience wants to read. They aren’t, by and large, journalists, guides, or critics. Still, travel bloggers have the freedom to choose what to blog about, some of which can be a little harsh. Have you read the internet? So should you quit your job, start a travel blog, and start attending travel blogging conferences like TBEX? Well… you’ll have to listen to find out our thoughts on that.

S2 E2 · Sun, November 06, 2016

Bangkok's Shaky Infrastructure That Won't Quit

Hey, you’re still here! How awesome is that? Welcome to the 2nd episode. Today, we’re talking infrastructure. No, wait! Before you decide to skip the episode, this isn’t an episode filled with mechanical engineering terms. Have you met us? (Direct download .mp3)   The Big Mango is… big. Big city with huge skyscrapers and sprawling concrete to help accommodate the millions of people that live in and visit Bangkok. This is the City of Angels, the second largest city in SE Asia. We’re sorry if that damaged your idyllic notion of rice paddies and floating markets. Thailand has them. Bangkok metro? Not so much. Here we have the Mahanakon Tower - some call it the Jenga or Tetris Building -- the fourth tallest building in SE Asia. We’re looking forward to the grand opening, because that rooftop bar is going to rather swank. But Bangkok isn’t stopping there. There are loads of new buildings, both giant and strange , that will continue to give Bangkok it’s own special character. Just one more reason we both love living in this crazy town. We have world class shopping centers, with more on the way. Traffic sucks. Just plan on that when you visit. The good news is the BTS or MRT work pretty good. And if all else fails, jump on a mototaxi. They flow through bad traffic like water. But we’re getting new lines. Greg made a nifty map to show where some of them will be. Will they all connect? If history is any judge, probably not. Ah, Bangkok. Of course, all that new development has to happen somewhere, and often that means old structures -- sometimes interesting and historic -- are knocked out of the way. Progress? Or a loss of culture? We’ll offer our opinions on the topic of how the changing landscape impacts these two expats. And we’d love to hear what you think! Also, The Windup Girl is a good future-of-Thailand book <span style

S2 E3 · Sun, November 06, 2016

Bangkok - Digital Nomad Heaven Or Hell?

Bangkok has become a hub for digital nomads, bringing in a wave of talent and fresh ideas into the city. Those nomads in turn attract other nomads. But is that a good thing? Or even a real thing? Let’s find out. (Direct download .mp3) Thailand -- Bangkok & Chiang Mai specifically -- is a hotbed of digital nomadship. But before we get to that, we should probably define the term:   Defining - people who can work anywhere thanks to the internet. They take many format but they share two things in common: They aren’t doing the type of job that requires them to be at a specific location at specific time. And that freedom allows them to travel, either a little or a lot, without interrupting their income stream. Jodi Ettenberg of LegalNomads is a good example. And Evo tried his hand at it all of 2015. So what makes Bangkok so attractive to digital nomads? Some of is has to do with cost of living, though Bangkok isn’t nearly as cheap as it used to be. Having many Western conveniences coupled with the “charm” of Asian living doesn’t hurt. Reliable access to cheap mobile data (especially compared to the US, Canada, and Australia) is big pull. But watch out, would-be internet entrepreneurs. Just because Thailand makes it easy for you to visit -- no visa required for a lot of Western countries -- it doesn’t mean you have the legal right to earn income while you are here. In fact, it’s just the opposite of that. So before you decide to set up shop in a co-working space (that wave has hit The Big Mango as well), you’ll want to have a solid understanding of the work permit as not to run up afoul of immigration rules. The work you want to do maybe reserved for Thai-nationals only. And those are just some of the  legal, semi-legit, social, and economic considerations/temptations/realities foreigners face when doing business in Thailand. Should you move to Bangkok and become a digital nomad? Well… maybe. And if you listen to the episode, you’ll find out what we think about it. After all, we want to be good role models.Tell us what you think in the comments!

S2 E1 · Sun, November 06, 2016

Bangkok Podcast Has Us Now

Three years ago, life changes forced the original hosts of the Bangkok Podcast to focus on other things, and it was ultimately decided to end the show. But we’re back, baby - and with an all new co-host that random chance brought to the show - Evo Terra! (Direct download .mp3) So, who’s this Evo guy? Here’s the short story: During a year-long sabbatical he and his wife took in 2015, they wound up in a little Thailand town called Ranong, house-sitting for the owners of The Smiling Seahorse, a live-aboard dive company .  No, you’ve probably never heard of Ranong. But if diving the archipelago of Myanmar sounds fun, Ranong is your jumping off point. During those three rainy months, the Kingdom of Thailand sort of grew on them, so they decided to move to the city and make the Big Mango their new home base. His wife (Sheila) is a teacher and he’s a stay at home husband. If you want to read more on him, check out his personal website or follow along on the infrequently published travel/comedy blog, The Opportunistic Travelers . And for those who missed the story when the show first started in 2010, you’ll learn a little about how Greg came to Thailand some some 16 years ago. Like so many Western travelers, he wound up visiting Thailand… and never left. But unlike shiftless Evo, Greg is actually gainfully employed, has a Thai wife and a toddler at home, and yet still somehow finds time to produce episodes of our show each week. So here it is… home. In Bangkok. And that means friends of ours in the Western world have lots of questions. Those questions are what we aim to answer on the re-imagining of The Bangkok Podcast. We’re not a news show. We’re a lifestyle show. Expect conversations, special guests, observations, and pontifications on how two “farangs” -- one Canadian and one American -- find their way living in the capital of The Kingdom of Thailand. And because two podcasting nerds got together, we had to have the obligatory “so how do you listen to podcast?” conversation. Evo’s suggestion: Otto Radio . Give it a shot if you want a new and improved way to listen to and discover podcasts. Greg is a hardcore user of Overcast <span s

S2 E4 · Mon, October 31, 2016

Bangkok 2.0 Meets 1.0 - Anthony Joh Gives Us An Update

Bangkok tried to kill Evo this week, so Greg sat down for a conversation with Anthony Joh, the original co-host of the Bangkok Podcast. (Direct download .mp3) Anthony Joh was one half of the original lineup on the Bangkok Podcast. He’s spent the last five years in Japan and caught up with Greg when he was back in the Big Mango. As you might imagine, Tony has noticed a lot of changes to his once home in those years. The burning question? Which country is better? We don’t want to give it away, but expect to hear commentary on: population growth vs contraction relative international-ness tourism focus controlled chaos vs ordered structure … and much more If you’re craving sushi and wagyu beef after the episode, our apologies.

S1 E77 · Sat, January 05, 2013

Bangkok Podcast 77: The End

Well folks, after much discussion and late night Skype dates, Greg and Tony have unfortunately decided that Bangkok Podcast has reached the end. As you've no doubt heard us talk about before, putting a podcast together takes a lot of time and effort, and time is something that both Greg and Tony have very little of these days. So, it's time to hang up the ol' mics. But with one last show left, we talk a bit about Greg's recent trip to Macau, Tony's upcoming trip to Bangkok, and a great new e-book by a local blogger called 101 Things to Do In Thailand that can help fill the void left by the podcast closing up shop. But we'll both still be around on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram and various other online haunts - just because the podcast is over doesn't mean the journey is done! (cue some righteous 80's hair metal ballad). A very sincere thanks to all of our past guests, listeners, supporters and fans who have helped make the show such an enjoyable thing to do since our very first show on May 3, 2010. We hope to see you all again - if not in real life, then definitely online.

S1 E76 · Wed, October 03, 2012

Bangkok Podcast 76: Freedom to Walk

This episode of Bangkok Podcast comes a bit late due mostly to the fact that both Tony and Greg have new jobs and are working like crazy men. Crazy men! But thankfully this nutty city still gives us enough to talk about. On this episode we're joined by Ali Weiner, who is organizing an amazing event for a very good cause. In an effort to raise awareness of the dangers and realities of human trafficking and to meet their goal of raising $100,000 dollars for various charities, her, her friend, and as many others as want to join, are going to walk from Bangkok to Three Pagoda's pass on the Thai Burmese border. That's right - walk the whole way. Ali tells us how the idea came about, describes the route she'll take, and lets us know how we can help. In fact - if you want to join her on her walk, feel free! Greg and Tony also talk about three news stories that have been burning up the news lately - the incredible amount of rain Bangkok is has been getting of late (which hopefully won't be enough to cause more floods this year); a reduction in the price of the poorly-conceived airport rail link to help boost ridership (the reduction is only good for a few hours during the middle of the day); and the newest beauty product to hit the market, vagina whitening cream (note to girls everywhere: No. No. No). And don't forget to check out our sponsor, the Bangkok Tree House, which goes above and beyond when it comes to serving amazing meals using locally-grown ingredients.

S1 E75 · Sun, September 02, 2012

Bangkok Podcast 75: Muay Thai Fighter

On this show Greg and Tony welcome back past guest Paul Garrigan who joins us to talk about his new adventure as a muay thai fighter. While always harbouring the dream of stepping into the ring Paul was reluctant to start training as a fighter believing he was too old. However he learned that once he got into the ring and overcame a series of injuries, boxing became a form of meditation for him. 

S1 E74 · Wed, August 01, 2012

Bangkok Podcast 74: Cost of Living in Bangkok

If you’ve been following the Thai news over the past few months, you might have heard about the big constitutional court crises a few weeks ago. As with many things in Thailand lately, it was a very he said/she said kind of debate with very high stakes. People were predicting doom! Riots! Chaos! Cats and dogs living together! Thankfully, in a very Thai outcome, the court came down squarely in the middle so that neither side won and neither side lost. It might come as a shock, but neither Tony nor Greg are scholars of Thai politics or law, but they know someone who is! For the first part of the show we welcome our friend Saksith Saiyasombut, a blogger, journalist and all-around nice guy who has reported extensively on the uh, entertaining Thai political scene over the past few years. He joins us on Skype from Germany (excuse the fuzzy call quality) and fills us in on what exactly the hubbub was about, what the decision means, and what happens next.  The other topic we wanted to get into for this show is something that we get asked a lot – just how expensive is it to live in Bangkok? Dreams of $5 hotels rooms and $1 feasts still somehow fill the brains of the never-ending stream of visitors, but unfortunately, price-wise, Bangkok ain’t what it was 20 years ago. Today, it’s a major Asian metropolis, a global transport hub, and home to big industry and big money. Tony and Greg go over what it takes to live in Bangkok from month-to-month with a comfortable western lifestyle. From groceries to entertainment to rent to maids, there’s a lot to take into account. www.bangkokpodcast.com

S1 E73 · Sun, July 01, 2012

Bangkok Podcast 73: The Return

Welcome back! Ten months after our last regular show, Tony and Greg are back with a new format but the same focus - Bangkok in all its wonderful, weird, awesome, odd glory. With Tony in Japan (but still heavily involved in Thailand) and Greg now married and busy with a variety of projects, a weekly hour-long show just isn't possible anymore. However, with the magic of Skype and a few new high-quality microphones, we decided that a monthly show focussing on the Big Mango's top stories would be a nice way to ease back into the podcast bath (uhh...so to speak). On our first show back, we talk about two of the top stories that have been burning up social media and coffee houses this month. First is the Thailand's Got Talent show in which a nice young lady came on stage and proceeded to strip off her shirt and bra, dump paint all over her chest, and rub her boobies on a big canvas! Art or trash? Well, watch the clip on Youtube and decide for yourself. Whatever it was, the powers that be certainly weren't pleased - and it got even stranger when it came out that the TV show had paid the girl to do it! Next we talk about a CNNGo article titled How to be a Bangkok Local: Ten Tips on Faking It, a humorous, tongue-in-cheek jab at some of Bangkok's stereotypes and eccentricities. But apparently, subtle humour and sly satire don't translate too well into Thai and the story was soon the talk of the town, with people accusing the (Thai) author of being a traitor, of insulting the country, and being just a very rude person. Of course, there were those who 'got it' and thought the story was funny, but that didn't do anything to quell the back-and-forth on the comment section. We are also happy to mention our partnership with Coconuts Bangkok, the city's newest news and reviews website, which we browse to see what people are talking about. Head on over and see the most up to date information on everything Bangkok. We also wanted to send a big thanks to our sponsor, the Bangkok Treehouse, an environmentally friendly retreat in the heart of Phrapradaeng, a lush expanse of jungle just across the river from Bangkok. It's a beautiful and peaceful place to escape the city, with awesome food and some pretty badass surroundings. As they say on their website, it's a view with a room, a very apt description. And don't forget our random plug of the month - PechaKucha, a fun and cool presentation event taking place in Bangkok on July 9. Check it out online (https://www.facebook.com/PechaKuchaBangkok) and if you feel like seeing Greg make a fool of himself, come down to check it out - he'll be one of the presenters!

S1 E72 · Fri, March 16, 2012

Bangkok Podcast 72: Greg & Aom's Wedding

On this special INTER-CONTINENTAL episode of Bangkok Podcast, Greg and Tony connect via Skype to talk about Greg's recent wedding.  Getting married in Thailand is a very ceremonial process that involves two ceremonies, 9 monks, and hundreds/thousands/millions of baht in dowry (prices vary greatly). Greg talks about what he went through with his wedding, from his first day of planning as an ultra-naive n00b to a happily married man. There's lots to consider - should you get a wedding planner or not? How many people will you invite? Will it be the oh-so-romantic beach wedding or a more traditional hotel ballroom event? What do you do about gifts? It all worked out wonderfully for Greg and Aom, but it was a lot of work and toil. Greg and Tony also discuss the latest topics in Thailand from what the Thai government is doing to assure Japanese investors that their factories won't be flooded out again, to how it's possible to lose and recover 13 million baht in gold in a taxi. Greg also gives us an update on his latest project - Bangkok Scientifique.

S1 E71 · Tue, December 27, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 71: Encore

Welcome back to Bangkok Podcast! Since Tony had to come through the 'Kok again, we thought we'd dust off the old equipment and record a quick reunion show! On this episode, we're joined by past guest Hamish Chalmers, who tells us his amazing story about escaping the recent floods that devastated central Thailand. Hamish went to bed one night, and woke up the next morning in the middle of a lake. He tells us about his flight to dry land, and how not fun it was wading through waist-high pitch-black water in his pitch-black neighborhood with his wife, baby daughter, and dog in tow. It was anything but safe - and that's before you factor in the crocodiles and snakes that were floating around. We are also joined by Michael Biedassek from Bangkok Vanguards, a community of like-minded young guys who want to create a real community around Bangkok that involves charity, exploration, and making friends around the world. Michael tells of their recent program 'Wipe the Tide' which saw over 2 million baht raised for flood relief.

S1 E70 · Sun, September 11, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 70: The Finale

Well, the time has come. With Tony moving to Japan and Greg's wedding quickly approaching, geography and limitations on free time have conspired to take Bangkok Podcast off the air - for now. On this episode, Tony and Greg discuss the Bangkok Podcast Farewell Dinner , go over some of their favorite shows from the past, get into a few details on what it took to put a show together, and thank a few very important people who worked with us behind the scenes to make sure the podcast grew.  We also want to say a special thanks to each of our guests, who came on the show in their free time and gave people a glimpse into the cool personalities that help make Bangkok such a great city. Thanks again everyone - keep your Bangkok Podcast iTunes, Facebook and Twitter links active - we might be back sooner than you think.

S1 E69 · Sun, September 04, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 69: Do You Believe What You Believe?

On our last episode our Buddhism series with Venerable Pandit Bhikku, we switch things up a bit and let Pandit interview us for a change. As someone who has always been curious about what regular layfolk like ourselves think about eastern religion, he quizzes us on our thoughts on monastic life and the orange-robed monks that we see everyday but often don't take much time to understand. Phra Pandit asks us if we believe in God and if we, in fact, believe what we believe, which is one of the key introspective aspects of Buddhism. Needless to say, it gets a bit deep as Tony, Greg and Pandit debate the meaning of belief and the freedom to choose if you even want to believe in anything. Phra Pandit also asks us some less esoteric questions such as - can monks wear jeans? How about ride a bicycle? Smoke? Go computer shopping? You might be surprised to find that even monks can't agree on the answers. And don't forget to join us at for the Bangkok Podcast Farewell Dinner on Saturday, September 10, at Basilico restaurant on Sukhumvit soi 33 to say goodbye to Greg and Tony and meet some of the guests of the show.

S1 E68 · Sun, August 28, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 68: Korn Chatikavanij

On this episode of Bangkok Podcast, we are very happy to be joined by Mr. Korn Chaitikavanij, Thailand's ex-finance minister. Although his Democrat party lost Thailand's most recent election, he is still an MP and is a high profile member of the Thai political landscape. Khun Korn talks to us about what it was like running in the election, which was one of the most fiercely contested in Thai history, and what his thoughts are now that his party is the opposition. Tony and Greg also ask his opinions of the current situation in the US financial markets, and get his views on what constitutes an acceptable protest.  We also discuss how expats who are moving to Thailand can best protect their assets and maximize investments, and where he recommends people go to find Bangkok's best street food. Come join us on September 10, 2011 to say goodbye to Bangkok Podcast. We are going off the air and we’re inviting our audience to join us for dinner at Basilico Pizzeria on Sukhumvit Soi 33 at 7:00 pm. Please RSVP on our Facebook page.

S1 E67 · Sun, August 21, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 67: Peter Tuinstra

In our continuing Thai language series , we are pleased to welcome film and television actor, translator, and all-around nice guy Peter Tuinstra. Peter's path to learning Thai was a bit different than most students as he studied under the watchful eye of the U.S. Air Force at the elite Defense Language Institute; 8 hours a day, 5 days a week for 1 year.  Peter tells us what methods were used by a US government program with 60 years of proven success teaching languages. He goes into detail about how different styles of learning affected different people in his class, what worked and what didn't work for him, and how his brain handled the intense 40-hours per week. Peter also talks about what methods he would recommend a newbie try out, why he thinks it will be a verrrrrrrry long time until computers become as good at translating as humans are, and the difficulties of acting in Thai when you have to use the words that someone else wrote for you, without taking any of your own creative shortcuts. Also, don't forget to check out our sponsor, A Village In The City, and remember to come and down and say goodbye to the podcast on September 10th at Basilico on Sukhumvit 33.

S1 E66 · Sun, August 14, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 66: Bhikkuni Suvijjana

In our continuing Buddhism series, we are joined by a special guest, Bhikkuni Suvijjana, a female monk who is visiting Thailand from the US. Female monks are rare, but the tide is slowly turning, and Bhikkuni Suvijjana gives us an interesting look into how she sees Buddhism on a daily basis. From differences in how female monks must act in public, to the efforts to promote all-female monasteries to eschewing virtual communities like Facebook and Twitter to focus on building real communities, she shares some of the challenges she faces. But it's not all hardship - she tells us of the great relationship she has with her son, now a grown musician, laughs at the time some Christian missionaries tried to convert her, and ponders the differences between how British and Thai immigration treat female monks. We're also joined by Kathleen Speake, Executive Director of ECPAT International, an organization dedicated to eliminating child prostitution and the underage sex trade. She tells us about the projects they have going right now, and how easy it is for you, me, and everyone, to visit a Body Shop store and help contribute to a very important initiative that will affect positive change in the lives of a great number of abused children. And don't forget to check out our sponsor Village in the City , a great new company that takes old, run-down Thai houses and fixes them up into trendy lofts and condos with style. If you're looking for a funky, well-built place to live close to downtown, check them out.

S1 E65 · Sun, August 07, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 65: Raising Kids in Bangkok

We get a lot of questions from expat parents and parents-to-be about what it's like raising a family in Bangkok. Since Tony and Greg are little more than man-children themselves, we brought Jack Prinya on the show to talk about just this thing. Radio host, MC, actor, and father to three little boys (triplets at that!), Jack has an intimate knowledge of the challenges that raising a family here brings. Many of us were raised in towns or cities where we'd leave in the morning on our bikes and come home for dinner, but Bangkok's not like that. Jack tells us where he takes his kids for some R&R, the challenges of letting them run around in one of Bangkok's few parks, and a few suggestions on where to take them if you want a day out of the city. He also tells us about how he pushes back against the 'over-coddling' that is so common in Thai culture, and tells us just how different triplets can really be. We are also happy to introduce Village in the City as our new sponsor, a great new company that takes old, run-down Thai houses and fixes them up into badass lofts and condos with style. If you're looking for a funky, well-built place to live close to downtown, check them out. 

S1 E64 · Mon, August 01, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 64: Travelfish

Today we're joined by Stuart McDonald, President, Founder, CEO and all around big boss at Travelfish.org, one of the most respected independent travel websites. Stu gives us a fascinating look into building of a travel site from nothing, and shares with us a few inside tips on the travel industry, like how to remain anonymous when reviewing hotels, how the guidebook industry is evolving, and what 'travel' means for different people. He also talks with us about what he does when he realizes another website is ripping off his content, how Thailand may be in danger of losing its crown as Asia's top travel spot, and what part Travelfish and sites like it play in the over-touristing of a chosen site. We're also joined by Ryan White, a filmmaker who is working on a film called Mondo Banana. It sounds weird to our limited western way of thinking, but bananas actually have some pretty serious cultural and religious significance in Asia, and you'll be surprised just how far his journey has taken him into a world most of us know nothing about.

S1 E63 · Sun, July 24, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 63: Bangkok Free Ambulance

Every Westerner knows that when you're hurt back home, you call the emergency number and get taken to the hospital, but things in Bangkok work a little differently. Today we talk with Marko Cunningham from Bangkok Free Ambulance, a service that he has run for many years - at his own expense, no less - that provides free ambulance services for those who need it, Thais, tourists and expats alike. In between his regular day job and finding time to enjoy Bangkok, Marko and his team respond to emergency calls, dealing with everything from lost snakes to mangled corpses. Marko gives us the inside scoop on how Thai emergency services work, what happens when an ambulance is stuck in traffic, the scary truth about how much training EMT's in Bangkok have, and why he's usually the first person on his team to touch a dead body. We are also joined by Wendy Edney from SCAD (Soi Cats and Dogs) who tells us about her efforts to rescue, save, clean, and support the thousands of cats and dogs that run around Bangkok. SCAD arranges everything from spaying and neutering to overseas adoptions, and is a great service to our furry friends that are often overlooked in the Big Mango.

S1 E62 · Sun, July 17, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 62: Learn Thai With Mod

On today's show, we're happy to be joined by Mod, who is a Thai language instructor. We wanted to see what it's like for a Thai person to teach Thai to foreigners, and she gives us some interesting insights into what problems we all have, how we sound to Thai ears, and how our native accents affect our speaking ability. We also talk about how what you *expect* to hear can sometimes have a bit of influence on what you *do* hear, why it's okay to shun Greg for his use of old-fashioned Thai that instantly reveals him as an old geezer, and the difficulties of pronouncing the Swahili word 'mxosa'.  There is also a VERY IMPORTANT announcement regarding the future of Bangkok Podcast, which you may even be able to play a part in.

S1 E61 · Sun, July 10, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 61: Thai Spirit Houses

Have you ever walked down the street and wondered what's up with those dollhouses on pillars that seem to be outside every building? Many have, and this is why we're happy to have Marisa Cranfill on this episode, who is one of Thailand's foremost (non-Thai) experts on Thai spirit houses. Despite Tony's mysterious mic problems, we talk to Marisa about what exactly these houses mean and where they come from. She also gives us the lowdown on exactly what's inside the little structures, why you'll most commonly see red Fanta soda sitting on the mini 'porch', and what happens to all that food that people leave as offerings? It's a complicated part of Thai culture that has deep roots in Brahmin, Hindu and Buddhist religions, and plays an important part in how Thais see the luck and success - or lack thereof - of their households. We are also joined by J.J. Grill, one of two reviewers at a website called What We Went Through that aims to give an honest and impartial review of restaurants in Bangkok. No frills, no bias, just honest reporting about the level of service, food and value from a customer's point of view.

S1 E60 · Sun, July 03, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 60: Religion & Science

We're very happy to welcome back Phra Pandit, the British-born monk who joins us to talk about everything from Buddhist canon to nuclear power. Today, Phra Pandit talks with us about how Buddhism views science. Is it as hostile as some other religions often see it, or is it more of a peaceful co-existence? Are there areas which conflict with The Buddha's teachings, or does Buddhism take every new discovery in stride? Phra Pandit also educates us on why writing might not be the most reliable method to pass information down through generations, what Buddhism believes heaven and hell to be, whether or not we have a soul, and even a few theories on neuro-plasticity and something called the God Helmet.

S1 E59 · Sun, June 26, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 59: Transgender Lifestyles

The image of a beautiful Thai women is one that is known throughout the world; however, only slightly less well known is the image of a beautiful Thai women who was born a man. Call them what you willl - transexual, transgender, ladyboy, katoey - their place in Thai culture goes back thousands of years, but despite the history, and despite Thailand being very accepting of them, it's not always an easy life. On this episode we're joined by Ms. Prem, a transgender lady who was born a man but now lives as a woman. We have a fascinating chat with Prem about her life and the difficulties she faces everyday, not least of which is the perception that all transgenders are only capable of prostitution, beauty pagents, or hair salons. Prem - who has a very good job with a high-level international agency - has fought against this stereotype and has seen progress, although it's slow going. She also talks openly about how she grew up knowing she was different than other boys, how the media's perception of what is beautiful creates stereotypes, what it's like dating men who may or may not know her past, her experience fighting a military draft that labels all transgenders as mentally unstable, and what she thinks about *that scene* in the Hangover 2.

S1 E58 · Sun, June 19, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 58: Learn Thai From A White Guy

On today's episode we're joined by Brett Whiteside, one of the few foreigners in Thailand who teach Thai. Brett's road from wide-eyed tourist to competent speaker, translator, consultant and tutor is unique in that the only person he had help him was himself. Brett tells us the methods he learned to drill the new language into his head, from returning to the same restaurant over and over again, to refusing to learn transliteration, to watching Thai soap operas. Brett also explains why he doesn't think there's any such thing as 'bad Thai', and how a mnemonic story he created about a boy, a chicken, a turtle and a fish have helped all of his students become competent Thai speakers much faster than they expected. Tony and Greg also talk a bit about food delivery in Thailand, and why Pizza Company - despite protests from some - has the system nailed.

S1 E57 · Sun, June 12, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 57: Voranai Vanijaka II

On this episode of Bangkok Podcast, we are very happy to welcome back Voranai Vanijaka, a columnist for the Bangkok Post whose articles focus on many of the most important issues facing Thai society today - politics, class struggle, stereotypes, corruption, and more. His writing is read by many who appreciate his no-nonsense style of facing problems head on and exploring some ugly truths; coincidentally, the same reason some are not fans of his articles. With the Thai election just around the corner, Voranai gives his view on the current landscape of Thai politics, what he thinks will happen after the election, why the election is about more than just one person, and how we all play a part in making sure Thailand moves forward instead of backward. We are also joined by Benjamin Lord, owner and head baker at Urban Pantry, Bangkok's best option for fans of bread - real bread. Ben started selling loaves to friends but word spread so quickly that he's now moving his kitchen-based business into its own shophouse. He brings some of his wares into the studio for Greg and Tony to try, who nearly forget about the podcast because they're so busy eating.

S1 E56 · Sun, June 05, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 56: American Ambassador Kristie Kenney

On this week's episode of Bangkok Podcast, we are very happy to be joined by Ms. Kristie Kenney, the American Ambassador to Thailand. Formerly Ambassador to both Ecuadaor and the Philippines, she is a career diplomat with a deep understanding of geopolitics, history, and diplomacy, and is also the first female ambassador to the Land of Smiles. Kristie talks to Tony and Greg about a variety of topics: her very active Twitter account, American foreign policy, how outsourcing is affecting American competitiveness, and her advice to young Americans who might be a bit hesitant about leaving the comfort of home. We also touch on some more serious topics - America's voice in rights abuses in Thailand; the embarrasment of Wikileaks; and the rather broad methods that the US is using to deal with online piracy.  Also on the show is Berthe from ChickyNet, the first social network for women in Thailand, who tells us about how her frustration at the dearth of active women's networks in Thailand led her to create her own.

S1 E55 · Sun, May 29, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 55: Chris Lowenstein

Thailand is a country that offers foreign film productions everything they need - amazing locations, skillful crew, talented actors and more. With foreign film productions come big money and jobs, so it's no wonder that the Thai government is pushing the country as a movie industry hub, but if you want to film here - who do you call? You call Chris Lowenstein, this week's guest. As one of the owners of Living Films, Chris is the main man when it comes to bringing in film productions - anything from small commercials to long-running television series to full-scale Hollywood blockbusters. His latest project is the mega Hollywood blockbuster "The Hangover Part 2", and Chris's roles as the film's line producer means he's in charge of everything that happens here: catering, work visas, film permits, transportation, hiring local crew. working with the cast and director to make sure everything's going smoothly, and more. Chris talks to us about the film industry in Thailand - what they're doing right, what they could improve, and what it's like working within a system that's notoriously fickle when it comes to censorship. He also tells us a few stories from The Hangover Part 2 such as how hard it was to shut down parts of Chinatown, and how a boat they hired in California ended up getting lost on a Chinese river. Greg also tells us about a baby shower that he attended where he was equal parts amused and horrified to find a piñata in the shape of a pregnant mermaid.

S1 E54 · Sun, May 22, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 54: Daniel Fraser

In our continuing series on learning Thai, we're joined by Dan Fraser - co-founder of Smiling Albino adventure travel company, film actor, television host, and of course, speaker of Thai. Dan gives us a very funny and insightful overview of the Thai language - how he learned it, how it's helped him, and the nuances and cultural queues that it takes its structure from. Dan tells us a few of his interesting stories about how Thai has both confounded and blessed him - from talking about unique architectural history, to muddling through 2 years of Thai with a fellow who (as it turns out) knew English, and talking about the monarchy on camera for his television show Long Krung using the nuanced and very sensitive dialect reserved for the royal family. Greg and Tony also go off on a tangent about good western movies, and recap the great time they had at their one-year anniversary party at Q Bar.

S1 E53 · Fri, May 13, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 53: Robin Moore

In our continuing Buddhist series, we sit down with Robin Moore, who spent over a decade as a monk in both the UK and Thailand, but eventually left the monkhood and rejoined lay-life. He tells us about his interesting journey, from being drawn to Buddhism as a teenager, to going on alms rounds in the UK (and trying to make it not look like begging), to why his mother cried when he joined the monkhood - and cried again when he left. We also cover the difficulties in fitting back in to a life that is generally at odds with a monastic one - everything from dating to driving a car to playing sports. Robin gives us a personal and fascinating look into his life pre-, during, and post-monkhood.

S1 E52 · Sun, May 08, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 52: DJ Octo

If you've found yourself out at a club at any time during the last 5 or 6 years in Bangkok, chances are you're familiar with DJ Octo. As one of the best known and most popular DJ's in town, he spins at hot venues like Q Bar and Bed Supperclub, and collaborates with a wide network of musicians, videographers, performers and artists to keep Bangkok's party crowds going late into the night. But just like many others who move to Bangkok, Octo came to Bangkok with a much different plan ten years ago. From retreating to forest monasteries, to scuba diving on Ko Tao, to sweating away in the 9-5 grind, he tells us what it's like entertaining crowds of thousands, how technology has completely revolutionized the industry, and what song you should ask him to play if you want to get punched in the face. Greg and Tony also talk about the many holidays in the month of May, and Greg ponders if he inadvertently contributed to the brutal death of a poor pigeon in Lumpini Park.

S1 E51 · Sun, May 01, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 51: Joe Cummings

In today's digital world, the requirements for being a travel writer are pretty minimal: do you have a computer? Have you travelled? Bam! Travel writer. But a few decades ago, being a travel writer was something rare; an exotic, sometimes dangerous job that took you into the dark, unexplored corners of the world on adventures of all kinds. On this episode of Bangkok Podcast, we welcome Joe Cummings, legendary travel writer, best-selling author, badass musician, and all-around cool dude. Back when the tallest building in Thailand was the Dusit Thani Hotel, Joe pitched the idea of a guidebook to Thailand to a little company called Lonely Planet, and ended up being in charge of the company's best-selling guide for 25 years. He's also written guidebooks on Burma, Laos, and Mexico, as well as one-off volumes on various aspects of Asian art and architecture. His new book, Sacred Tattoos of Thailand, will be released in June. Joe also tells us how he ended up stranded on a boat for three days in the middle of the ocean with three Indonesian fishermen, how advanced technology has changed the art of travel writing, and what he thinks will happen with Thailand's ongoing political troubles. Also, don't forget to join the BANGKOK PODCAST 1-YEAR ANNIVERSARY PARTY on May 15th at the swanky Q-Up lounge. Good people, good drinks, good times!

S1 E50 · Sun, April 24, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 50: Our 50th show!

ZOOM! That was the sound of a whole year going by!  It was in May 2010 that Tony and Greg put up the first episode of the Bangkok Podcast, and it's been a fun, interesting (and sometimes frustrating) year. This episode marks the 50th weekly show for the Bangkok Podcast, and to celebrate we thought'd we take a look back at the topics we've covered in the past 50 weeks by updating you on what our past interview guests have been up to; where the important issues we discuss have ended up; and how some of the interesting developments that have taken place in Thailand have affected Tony, Greg, and the people they know. From Scientology to bird crap, beaches to heart attacks, and boobies to weddings, we give you the lowdown on what the past year has shown us. Also don't forget to join us on MAY 15 to celebrate our birthday at Q BAR. Thanks to their generous support, a 500 baht cover gets you free flow drinks from 8-10pm. Spend the night at Bangkok's hippest night club (in the swanky, upstairs lounge, natch) with all who have made Bangkok Podcast such a success over the past year!

S1 E49 · Fri, April 15, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 49: Is Learning Thai Hard?

We've done a fair number of shows so far about learning Thai, but one of the most fundamental questions has yet to be discussed - is learning Thai actually hard, or do we foreigners just make it seem that way?  We're joined once again by our Thai language Jedi Rikker Dockum as he talks about the particulars of the Thai language, how the human brain processes it, and some of the roadblocks that we encounter (or make) as we attempt to learn it. He also tells us how he keeps his Thai skills sharp, how age plays a role in learning language, and the value of making mistakes. We are also joined by the crew from BangkokFoodTours.com, who will be leading our upcoming walking food tour. They tell us a bit about their company, how it began, and what we can expect on our outing.

S1 E48 · Sun, April 10, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 48: Moving Away From Thailand

In most western cultures, moving out of your parent's place and into your own life is considered a rite of adulthood and one which many are eager to do as soon as possible, but in Thailand things work differently. It's very common for people to live at home until they are married - often into their 30's - live with their spouse, and then have their parents move in with them when they reach retirement. Family plays a very big role in Thai society. So what's it like for a Thai to move to a strange country and be forced to live on their own without the emotional or financial support of their family? We are happy to be joined by Ms. Orapa, a young woman who recently returned from living in London for four years. It's a very interesting look at some of thing things that we, as expats in Thailand, must deal with but through the eyes of a Thai. What happens when the novelty of a new city wears off? How do you make friends when everyone is constantly moving away? What are your options if you miss Thai food? Orapa gives us some great insights into what she loved, what she missed, and how she coped on her own in her time overseas. Greg and Tony also discuss details of their upcoming ONE YEAR ANNIVERSAY PARTY at Q-BAR, which is sure to be an epic event; and talk a bit about Songkran, and how they're looking forward to not taking part in it. We also take a look at three events from BK Magazine this week - a night of metal; a night of multiple DJ's; and a T-shirt festival with a ton of music.

S1 E47 · Sun, April 03, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 47: Q-Bar Andrew

On this episode of Bangkok Podcast, we sit down with Andrew Clark, co-owner and co-founder of QBar, Bangkok's hippest, coolest night club. Besides being a superb and friendly chap, Andrew talks to us about the humble beginnings of QBar, and what it takes to stay at the front of the line in an indusrty that's notorious for big openings and quick closures. He also gives us the lowdown on playing by the rules when the rules are constantly changing, the difficulties in keeping working girls (and guys!) out of the club, and the dirty tricks that other bars resort to when they're jealous of the industry leader. Greg and Tony also discuss Tony's upcoming trip to Ko Chang, the annoyance of sitting on a bus for more than a few hours, and the secret to how they both stay so pasty-white (hint: we never leave Bangkok). We also continue our partnerships with BK Magazine, Bangkok's best source for what's going on, and give a few quick details on a cheesy concert that the girls will love, a sobering photography exhibit, and a SUPER GIANT FUN TIME!

S1 E46 · Sun, March 27, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 46: Untranslatables

Joined once again by the Thai language Jedi Rikker, he schools Greg and Tony on a few Thai phrases that have no direct translation into English. What exactly does 'Mai Pen Rai' mean, and why is more than just a phrase? How do you tell someone 'Greng Jai' without leading to a Marx Brothers-style contest on who wants to disturb the other person the least? We also go off on a few tangents that include where 'Krap' and 'Ka' come from, and how Chaucer's original English has mutated into the 's we use today. This is also the first show where we talk about our partnership with BK Magazine. Starting today, at the beginning of each show we'll highlight a few random selections from Bangkok's best English weekly to give you a few ideas for what to do over the coming week. This week: beer, bodies, and a certain skinny fat boy.  Greg also gives us the lowdown on his first bicycle accident and how even the act of getting thrown over your handlebars in Thailand can turn into a unique example of Thai hospitality.

S1 E45 · Sun, March 20, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 45: Phra Pandit II

In the wake of the terrible tragedy in Japan, we are extremely pleased to have with us on this show Phra Pandit, the British-born monk who first came on our show in episode 30. On this show, Greg and Tony ask Phra Pandit to give his views on how such a tragedy can affect people, and how religion - and Buddhism in particular - can either become the one things that helps people get through such a hard time, or ceases to mean anything to them at all. What did the Buddha say about grief? How does psychology fit into religious counseling? And how can people use Buddhism to give them inner strength in dire situations? We also get off on a tangent, and Phra Pandit will blow your mind with his in-depth knowledge of nuclear and solar power, the latest developments in the technology driving them both, and how he sometimes eats an entire pizza, but doesn't sweat the small stuff. Greg and Tony also recap their awesome Phrapradaeng jungle ride last week with some friends of the show.

S1 E44 · Sun, March 13, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 44: Christopher G. Moore

The amount of foreigners who try to write a book about their craaaazy adventures in Thailand is only slightly larger than the amount who try to write hard-boiled fiction based in Bangkok, but among this group Christopher G. Moore stands out. Not only has his career as a writer thrived, but his 12-title Vincent Calvino series will soon be getting the big-time Hollywood treatment. Greg and Tony talk to Christopher about how Bangkok has changed in the 20-plus years that he's lived here, how the city's rich tapestry inspires his story lines and the structure of his books, what he does to make his characters believable, and what it's like getting shot at while doing research on a police ride-along. He also tells us what effect rapidly evolving technology is having on the publishing industry, and if he thinks we'll still be reading books in 10 years. Tony and Greg also talk about the tragic earthquake in Japan, and discuss an interesting and emotional new film made in Thailand about HIV-positive children who are making great strides despite their condition.

S1 E43 · Sun, March 06, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 43: Bangkok Reality Smackdown

When you first come to Bangkok, everything is new and strange. Nothing makes sense, and even a trip to the corner store can be an adventure. But after a while, these things fade, and pretty soon, the things that made your eyes bug out when you first arrived become old hat and - dare I say - boring. That's why we wanted to talk to Megan Kobzej, a new transplant to Bangkok with a very entertaining blog that makes us think back to the halcyon days of our first arrival; when Bangkok was stil an unexplored realm and the possibilities were endless. Or, to put it a more cynical way, before the city made us jaded, bitter, grumpy expats. Anyway, Megan tells us what impresses her, what scares her, and why she's obsessed with chips (or crisps, if you're a Brit). She also gives us her opinion on Bangkok's nightlife, what it's like to face a cockraoch in your shower, and what her friends and family back home think of her life in Asia. We are also joined briefly by Patricia Weismantel from Spice Roads, the company that will be leading our bicycle tour of Prapadaeng on March 13, to explain the ride, and Tony gives Greg a special gift.

S1 E42 · Mon, February 28, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 42: Matchmaking

On this episode, we talk with Khun Bee, owner of Bangkok Matching, Bangkok's #1 premium marriage matchmaking service. It's a very different ball of wax from a simple dating site, and in a very interesting conversation, Khun Bee tells us how she got the idea for her business, some of the (often unrealistic) expectations her clients have, and a few of the surprising problems she encounters on a day-to-day basis. We also get an inside track into the sometimes brutal task of finding love - what happens when you want someone out of your league? How do you tell someone that no one's interested in them? And what happens if a date is a disaster? And to top it all of - Tony gives us his experiences as a client of Khun Bee's, and tells us what it was like going on 11 dates over a period of a few weeks, and why he now has the nickname "9-11". Greg also talks about his Restaurants of Bangkok Running Dinner experience, and we remind everyone about our upcoming Bangkok bicycle trip on March 13 - head to our Facebook page to sign up!

S1 E41 · Sun, February 20, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 41: Online Dating

Continuing with our month of loooooove, this episode of Bangkok Podcast deals with the risks and rewards of online dating. Only ten years ago, meeting someone online was considered a bit of a nerdy way to find a mate, but today, it's almost considered strange to meet people in real life. Add to that the stereotypes and gossip of finding love in Thailand, and it can quickly become a bit complicated. To see what all the fuss about, Tony went and signed up for a few dating services to find out what kind of attention his profile would get. He talks about which sites he chose, how each one works, what types of response he got and, more importantly, from what types of women. Greg... well, if you listen to the show on a regular basis, you'll know that due to his upcoming nuptials, Greg had to sit this one out and live vicariously through Tony. Tony also tells us about his recent visa run to Vientiane, how he miscalcuated the expiry date of his visa, and had lunch with one of our listeners!

S1 E40 · Sun, February 13, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 40: Kaewmala

Argh! Yet another wacky cable problem has made Greg and Tony's voices sound weird and echoey, but never fear! Our esteemed guest's voice came through loud and clear. On this episode - the second of four in our Valentine's-themed month of February - we are joied by Kaewmala, author of the fun, sexy, and educational book 'Thai Sex Talk'. She is also a noted commentator on social issues, prolific blogger, talented translator and all-around cool woman. She educates Greg and Tony on all the nuances of sexuality, flirting, dating and love in Thai culture, and helps us understand some of the more complex facets of the area, such as why so many beautiful, smart, funny, middle-class women in Thailand remain single, and some of the hangups and problems that foreign men find when they approach them. Greg and Tony also announce the next Bangkok Podcast get-together - a guided bike ride to one of Bangkok's hidden gems, the lush and peaceful semi-island of Prapradaeng.

S1 E39 · Mon, February 07, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 39: Thai Wedding Ceremony

To start off our month of luuuve, Bangkok Podcast will be talking about the who, why, how and how much of Thai weddings. Despite some strange microphone issues in this episode, we are joined by Jason and Nim, two friends of Greg's who got married last year. They join us to discuss what their wedding was like, which ceremonial and traditional aspects it included, how it differes from western weddings, and how Jason dealt with the well known phrase 'When you marry a Thai woman, you also marry her family.' Greg and Tony also discuss the latest political developments in Egypt, what it means for the region, and how online tools and social media are once again showing the power they have in disrupting long-established ways of oppressing the masses, as well as rising up against that very same oppression.

S1 E38 · Sat, January 29, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 38: Canadian Ambassador Ron Hoffmann

It's a strata of expat life that few of us have to deal with on anything more than an administrative level, but the particulars of how two countries interract and overlap is a complicated Venn diagram that needs to be carefully controlled. On this episode, Tony and Greg are honoured to be joined by Ron Hoffmann, Canadian Ambassador to Thailand. We talk about a whole range of subjects - what his day-to-day roles are, how Thailand compares to his previous posting in Afghanistan, what he thinks of the whole Wikileaks debate, and how no one knows just how deep and complex the relationship between Thailand and Canada is. We are also joined by Willem Deenik, Managing Director of Restaurants of Bangkok, the best place to find online information, reviews and great deals at restaurants throughout the city. He lets us know how users can benefit from his website, as well as some of the interesting dining-centered events coming up.

S1 E37 · Sun, January 23, 2011

Adam Bradshaw: Thai Language Series 9 on the Bangkok Podcast (1.37)

(Direct download .mp3) We are lucky to be joined by another farang Thai speaker for our Thai language series , Adam Bradshaw . Adam has a large online following who enjoy watching his energetic and easy to understand YouTube videos where he explains the more commonly heard English phrases to his Thai audience. Things like "What's up?" and the difference between "Up the street" and "Down the street" can be very confusing for non-native speakers, but Adam makes it easy. He talks about how Thai students learn English, the methods he used for learning Thai, how his Thai YouTube audience thought his voice was dubbed by a Thai speaker, and tells us about how he interviewed the Prime Minister of Thailand in Thai. He also helps us translate a phrase that we all use on a daily basis: 2 Legit 2 Quit. Greg also tells us abou this swanky new glasses, and he and Tony talk about how Thailand is a great place to get some routine personal maintenance done if you have the chance - things like seeing the dentist, getting your eyes checked or going for a physical. Show Links: Adam Bradshaw YouTube Mobile in Japan Thantakit Dental

S1 E36 · Sun, January 16, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 36: Finding a job in Bangkok

On this episode, Tony and Greg discuss the ins and outs of finding a job in Thailand. A lot of people - after a vacation full of fun and frivolity - think that moving to Thailand will be a sure way to leave the rat race and live a life of blissful utopia. However, while working in Thailand is still (in our opinion) an infinitely better and more interesting experience than working at home, the truth of the matter that working here is not the endless party many want it to be.  Office politics, rush hour, overdue bills and looming deadlines are inescapable truths to any job, and Thailand is no different. On top of that, there are things such as work permits and the lack of social safety nets to consider. Tony and Greg talk a bit about this, as well as the best places and methods to find jobs here, including a discussion on the most popular route into the Thai workforce - teaching English. Tony also tells us about his recent illness, and Greg recounts the horrifying day in High School he had to be sent home because of chicken pox.

S1 E35 · Sun, January 09, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 35: Woody Milintachinda Pt 2

On the second part of our interview with talk show host and all around cool dude Woody Malintachinda, we learn a bit more about Woody's job and some of the crazy stories that come from being on TV. From being told he's "nobody" by American celebrity handlers to dealing with self-censorship to what he thinks of Twitter and his fans (even when they criticize him), it's a fascinting peek into one of the most well-known (and certainly most energetic) Thai TV personalities around. Greg also talks about a book that he's reading that takes place in Bangkok 300 years in the future, and how its plot is taken from some of problems that we have to deal with in Bangkok today.

S1 E34 · Sun, January 02, 2011

Bangkok Podcast 34: Woody Milintachinda Pt 1

On the first part of a special two-part episode, we are very pleased to welcome one of Thailand's top talk show personalities, Woody Milintachinda. As host and producer of 'Woody Kerd Ma Kui' (Born to Talk), Woody is well known to Thais all over the country for his unique style of interviewing everyone from supermodels to fortune tellers to politicians. Sometimes controversial but always interesting, Woody joins Bangkok Podcast to talk about his childhood in the US and Switzerland, the positive and negative aspects of being a high-profile TV star, and how he hides his mid-afternoon naps from his staff. In addition, Greg talks about his New Year's Eve party, and Tony goes into detail about his recent trip to Japan, explaining just how different Tokyo is to Bangkok, and how Tokyo would likely simply stop working if a bit of Bangkok's chaotic nature were introduced into the mix.

S1 E33 · Thu, December 23, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 33: Five Questions

For the last show of 2010, Tony and Greg decided to learn a little about more about how each of them views their adopted city. To that end, each of them came up with five questions about life in Bangkok without telling the other what they were; improvisational podcasting at its finest! What did Greg ask Tony? What did Tony ask Greg? The answers are all in episode #33 of Bangkok Podcast. They also talk about Tony's upcoming trip to Japan, and how Christmas is celebrated in Bangkok... or rather, how it's not celebrated. Happy New Year and thanks for making our first year a huge success! 

S1 E32 · Sun, December 19, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 32: Hamish Chalmers

While our regular Thai language Jedi Rikker takes a well-deserved break, we're joined today by Hamish Chalmers, another noted Thai speaker, blogger, Tweeter and all-around nice guy. As a teacher at a well-regarded international school, Hamish has some unique insights into how students of languages (Thai or otherwise) learn, what methodologies work best, and how teachers can shape their lessons to suit each students' particular needs. Hamish also tells us how he learned Thai through pure stubbornness, how he hopes people use his website, and how much he loves Japanese pears. In addition, Tony and Greg talk about last night's Bangkok Podcast Christmas party, and want to give a BIG thanks to Dani and Martin for helping us with registration, as well as a wonderful, awesome gift that they gave us that makes all this podcasting rigmarole worth it.

S1 E31 · Sun, December 12, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 31: Visa Runs

On this episode we disucss the much-hated, much-maligned visa run, the process of renewing your visa by traveling outside of the country that you live in. Most anyone who lives in Thailand has experienced this process, and Tony and Greg go over the who, what, why, and how of the whole process, drawing on personal experience to try and answer a few questions: is it better to do on your own or use a service? Can you send your passport with an agency and stay at home? How do you deal with border bribery, and which border crossing is the best? Also, Tony - in the name of research - has used three of the most popular visa run services and gives us a rundown of the pros and cons of each one. Who has the best lunch? Who has the friendliest staff? And most importantly, which ones use a big bus, and which ones use tiny vans? Greg also tells us about his recent trip to Siem Reap, Cambodia, and we discuss how Twitter came to the aid of our friend, adventure-seeker @Vaitor, when he found himself in a Thai hospital and needed the help of a translator.

S1 E30 · Mon, November 29, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 30: Phra Pandit

Ask anyone in the world what they see when they think of Thailand, and chances are that one of those things will be monks. They are a part of life here - wandering the streets early in the morning, shopping at markets, riding the skytrain - but for most foreigners, they remain somewhat mysterious and at a distance. To change those perceptions, Bangkok Podcast is very happy to welcome Phra Pandit, a Brit who was ordained as a monk in 1996 and is now a very visible part of Bangkok's Buddhist community. We ask Phra Pandit all the nitty gritty about being a monk: why are the robes orange? What time do you wake up? What does your family think? And what's the deal with meditation? He gives us a very unique and interesting insight into a side of life that most of us will never see, including details on his blog and Facebook group. Look for Phra Pandit on future shows, as he will return to further school us in the many interesting aspects of Buddhism. Tony and Greg also take a cue from some listener mail and discuss the best places to go for a jog in Bangkok, and also continue with information on the BANGKOK PODCAST CHRISTMAS PARTY!

S1 E29 · Sun, November 28, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 29: Thai Language Series 7

On this show we're again joined by Thai language Jedi Rikker Dockum who goes through the calendar with us looking at the Thai holidays. It can be confusing sometimes keeping them all straight, because while many western holidays have made it to Bangkok - Christmas, Halloween, Valentine's Day, etc - there are also the Thai holidays to keep track of - Songkran, Macha Bucha, and Father's, Mother's and Children's day, among others. So how are the western ones celebrated, what is a Macha Bucha, and what exactly does Songkran have to do with the moon?  We also give some more details on the BANGKOK PODCAST CHRISTMAS PARTY! As it is the season of giving, we are asking everyone who attends to donate any unused items they may have lying around the house - from cups to clothes to toiletries. Bangkok Podcast will collect them at the Christmas party and donate them to the Second Chance Foundation, a charity that ensures that used items get distributed to the residents of Bangkok's sprawling Khlong Toey slum. We are joined today by Jodie, founder of the Second Chance Foundation, who explains why she started the project and how it helps those in need.

S1 E28 · Sun, November 21, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 28: Expats and Technology

Living overseas can often caust a bit of separation anxiety. You miss your family, you miss your friends, and pretty soon work, social life and time zones get in your way. As little as 5 or 6 years ago you were pretty limited to email, but over the past half-decade, the tools and technology available to expats for staying in touch with your peeps back home has exploded. In this episode, Tony and Greg chew the fat on which methods they use to stay in touch with their families around the world, and how these various methods can serve not only as a powerful took to keep you from getting lonely, but also a powerful tool to keep you close to your culture, as well as help you integrate further into your adopted society. From videoclips of newborns sent from cellphone to cellphone to funerals that are live-streamed around the world, current technology is something that can be used to make your life overseas richer and more rewarding than ever before.

S1 E27 · Sat, November 13, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 27: Jerry Hopkins Pt 2

On this week's show, continue our interview with Mr. Jerry Hopkins. You may not know his name right away but Jerry is a legend in the music and publishing industries. Before he retired to Thailand, Jerry was a journalist - and not just any journalist - a Rock n' Roll Journalist! As a former editor of Rolling Stone Magazine (when it was just a wee start-up trying to sell ads), Jerry got to know some of the biggest up-and-coming names in rock n' roll, from Jimi Hendrix to The Doors to Elvis Presley. It was through these friendships that Jerry was able to write several of the most influential rock biographies in history, most notably the seminal work on The Doors 'No One Here Gets Out Alive', which was TWICE a New York Times best seller, and was used extensively by Oliver Stone when he made The Doors. In the second part of our interview, Jerry talks about his adventures with everyone from Yoko Ono to Raquel Welch, the future of journalism, why he chose Thailand to retire in, and gives some advice to any budding writers out there. Tony also tells us about a football (aka soccer) game that he went to recently where the fans were very well behaved... until the game finished, that is!

S1 E26 · Sun, November 07, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 26: Jerry Hopkins Pt1

  If you like real music then you are in for a treat with this weeks guest as we're very lucky to interview Mr. Jerry Hopkins. You may not know his name right away but Jerry is a legend in the music and publishing industries. Before he retired to Thailand, Jerry was a journalist - and not just any journalist - a Rock n' Roll Journalist! As a former editor of Rolling Stone Magazine (when it was just a wee start-up trying to sell ads), Jerry got to know some of the biggest names in rock n' roll, from Jimi Hendrix to The Doors to Elvis Presley. It was through these friendships that Jerry was able to write several of the most influential rock biographies in history, most notably his seminal work on The Doors 'No One Here Gets Out Alive', which was TWICE a New York Times best seller, and was used extensively by Oliver Stone on his movie about The Doors. In the first part of our interview, Jerry talks about his days following bands around, how music culture now is different from music culture then, and shares a few choice stories about hanging out with some of the biggest names in music history. Greg and Tony also complain about the weather and how it's given them colds and allergies, respectively, and why Bangkok just won't let them get better.  

S1 E25 · Sun, October 31, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 25: Halloween Special!

For the final show of October, we invited some friends of Bangkok Podcast down to the Bangkok Podcast Intergallactic HQ to join us in a creepy crawly Halloween-themed episode - eating bugs! Insects have long been a part of the Thai diet, especially in the northern Isaan region, and while a good number of Thais in Bangkok don't indulge, many still do and you can often see bug vendors plying their wares in various locations around the city. We assembled 9 big bags full of creepy-crawlies: red ants, giant grasshoppers, pregnant crickets, swolen grubs, deep-fried frogs and stir-fried bamboo worms, all delicacies in their own way. Tony and Greg were the first to indulge, but we soon had our intrepid group of friends digging in with us and crunching loudly away.  We go over what each type of bug looks like, tastes like, and talk about how the same horrified looks that we were giving these things are also applied by many Thais at some of the snacks that we foreigners consider quite delicious.

S1 E24 · Sun, October 24, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 24: Thai Language Series 6

In our continuing series on the mysteries of the Thai language, linguistic lion tamer Rikker Dockum talks about the complexities of the vowels. With around 33 (depending on who you ask) vowel sounds, which can come before, after, above, below, or around the consonant that they modify, it's no wonder that Tony and Greg (and many others) are left scratching their heads. We also announce a special episode of Bangkok Podcast on October 30 - the last one for our Halloween month - where you - yes, you! - can come down the BP Intergalactic HQ to see us record an episode, and take part in a creepy crawly event that's part of Thai culture, but something that often causes many foreigners to break out in a sweat.

S1 E23 · Sun, October 17, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 23: Tourist Scams

Bangkok is a big and fast-paced city, and you need a significant amount of street smarts to avoid the many pitfalls that are present. One thing that many people find - despite the well-publicized 'Land of Smiles' image - is that Thailand has jerks and scam artists just like any other city around the world. Often these hosers weave incredibly intricate and cunning schemes to get some money out of unwitting tourists; the variety is incredible and people often lose anywhere from hundreds of baht to thousands of dollars. In this episode, Greg and Tony talk about some of the more common scams they've heard of and/or experienced, and share a few inside tips on what to look for, how to react, what to avoid, and - most importantly - what to do if you somehow find yourself a victim. Greg and Tony also wax lyrical about the delightfully cool weather this week; talk about a great giveaway from one of our former guests; and Tony gives everyone a pro tip on avoiding the rain.

S1 E22 · Sun, October 10, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 22: Paul Garrigan

Bangkok is a city of many vices and more than a few temptations. If you're not careful, it can be frighteningly easy to let these things go from a sometime-hobby to a full-blown addiction, and the end result is usually not pretty. But every once in a while you hear a story about someone who sank to the bottom and then, against all odds, pulled themsevles back up. Continuing our Halloween theme in the guise of discussing inner demons, our guest today is author Paul Garrigan. His book 'Dead Drunk' recounts his harrowing tale of alcoholism that saw him travel the world trying to escape a problem that was part of who he was. It was only in Thailand, near the end of his rope, that Paul ended up at Wat Thamkrabok, whose well known detox program showed him the way out of the darkness. Paul gives a very personal, open book account of the challenges he faced, and what it was like when he finally emerged clean and sober on the other side. Greg and Tony also welcome guest Scotty "Hockey" Murray, one of the organizers of the upcoming 2010 Land Of Smiles Ice Hockey Classic. Ice hockey in Thailand? That's right, and the tournamet will be pretty badass. Make sure to check it out!

S1 E21 · Sun, October 03, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 21: Fortune Tellers

For many westerners, fortune tellers - more often referred to as psychics - are generally seen as dwelling in the fringes of legitimacy. However, 'mor doo' ('seeing doctors') in Thailand play a much larger role. From Prime Ministers to street sweepers, seeing a fortune teller is something that many Thais do regularly and with quite a bit of conviction, and as any long-term expat can tell you, making fun of their craft or trying to disprove a session with a cold dose of reality will only earn you scorn. In the first Halloween themed episode, Tony and Greg take a visit to a fortune teller to see what it's all about. Greg consults a tarot card deck, while Tony gets his palms read, and both are subjected to the power of the crystal pendulum. What did the fortune teller say? Is the future so bright they need to wear shades? Greg and Tony also get off on a tangent discussing scams of the heart, armed thugs taking over a part of the airport (again!), and how to know you've been in Thailand too long.

S1 E20 · Sun, September 26, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 20: Thai Language Series 5

Joined once again by Bangkok Podcasts's Thai language guru Rikker, we get into the very unique way that Thais tell time. For instance, in Thai the day is divided into four sections: morning, afternoon, evening, and then after midnight. At the change to each section, the time is 'reset', so for instance, 8pm wouldn't be 8pm, but rather 2 o'clock, or 2 hours after 6pm. It's a system that has confused many a foreigner who is told to meet someone at a time that makes no sense - "Meet me for dinner at 2 o'clock!" Rikker breaks these zones down for us, and explains a bit of the linguistic gymnastics that go along with assiging names to the times of day. Tony also tells us how is mobile phone bills have (hopefully) been sorted out after the phone company somehow calculated that he was spending 8 hours a day, every day, online with his phone.

S1 E19 · Mon, September 20, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 19: Thai Education System

It's no secret that the Thai education system is in need of an overhaul. Everyone from government ministers to concerned parents regularly voice their opinions in the press, and there is a real concern that the Thailand's education system is being passed by its regional neighbours. One way a concerned parent can ensure your child has an international-level education in Thailand is to enroll them in an international school. However, many parents find that the cost of tuition is often outrageously high - many thousands of dollars per child per year, or more. So what are the options? Is there any way around this? And what does it mean for a parent living here who may not have the necessary resources? Greg also talks about his recent trip to Europe and a big development for him there, which leads to a discussion about European history vs Thai history, the nuances of driving in Europe, and the trust you must have in your GPS system while navigating unfamiliar roads. We also thank loyal listener Jamie Milkovich for his awesome addition to our Facebook page, and we tease a few details of some pretty cool shows we have coming up in October.

S1 E18 · Sun, September 12, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 18: Kaila Krayewski

With the legendary beauty of Thai women and Bangkok’s shadowy red light districts, Thailand is a well-known destination for men who like to act like they wished they could when they were teenagers, but what about the foreign women that live in the Land of Smiles? The reality is that there are many farang ladies in Thailand who are smart, successful, and beautiful, but who are totally ignored by the male population. It may sounds like a silly little problem but not having access to a successful relationship can lead to a bigger problem that is common in Thailand and that is loneliness. We talk with Kaila Krayewski, a writer, blogger and traveler, about her travel experiences in S.E. Asia and her impressions of being a foreign woman in Thailand’s dating scene, and the effect that the relative dearth of options can have on a person’s enjoyment of living here. Greg and Tony also take a moment to thank the guys who gave Bangkok Podcast it’s look and sound – Marc Griesinger, who created our logo, and Alec Harrison, who composed our theme song.

S1 E17 · Sun, September 05, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 17: Finding an apartment in Bangkok

Landing in Bangkok,  finding a job and fitting into a new life isn't easy, but finding the right apartment is often the most challenging thing to do. With a city as big as Bangkok, it can be a confusing, frustrating and tiring experience. On this episode, Tony and Greg talk about the nuances of finding the right apartment and the shortcuts they've taken in the past to explore the housing market and what it offers. They also give a few tips on what to look for on your search, as many of the 'little details' of renting here are not the same as they are in your home country. Tony also talks about his continuing lucky streak with taxi drivers and the money they keep returning to him, while Greg remembers a particular ride when a taxi driver thought a tip that was 110% of the fare seemed appropriate.

S1 E16 · Fri, August 27, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 16: Thai Language Series 4

In this episode Rikker elightens us on what it's like to raise a child in a bilingual country and household. Seeing that Tony and Greg have exactly 0 children each, Rikker - as a father of two - is much more qualified to tell us about what teaching methods work best, how a child percieves language, and the fears that any parent has when trying to teach their child the skills that will help them in life. Greg also vents about an injustice toward a Thai garbage collector, and Tony talks about his video project with Prae 'Fluke' Sunantaraks (who you may remember as our first guest), which may see them chosen to attend the prestigious Sundance Film Festival.

S1 E15 · Sun, August 22, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 15: Is Bangkok Safe?

Bangkok is a sprawling, steamy city of roughly 8 million that can give any other metropolis a run for its money. Naturally, crime and violence are a reality of everyday life, although not on the same scale as other notorious places like Rio de Janeiro, New York or Johannesburg. Despite this, one of the most common questions we get is: is Bangkok safe?  The short answer to this question is: yes, Bangkok overall is a very safe city. However, living here does require a certain amount of street smarts and a bit of knowledge about how things in Thailand work if you're to navigate successfully around the odd pitfall. On this episode, Tony and Greg talk about their experiences trying to avoid crime and violence, give a few sage tips on what to do if something does go awry, and share a few of their personal encounters with the ugly side of living in a huge city. Tony also vents about Google's dominance over online advertising, and Greg talks about his trip on the new Suvarnabhumi Airport Rail Link (SARL) and ponders whether people will choose to avoid the taxis for the new electric rail system.

S1 E14 · Sun, August 15, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 14: Voranai Vanijaka

As an editor at the Bangkok Post, one of the Kingdom's English-language daily newspapers, Voranai Vanijaka is afforded an opportunity to have his voice heard, discussed and argued about that few of use ever have. As a journalist, his job is to look at the world through a long lens and comment on what he sees. However, in a country like Thailand - where long-held perceptions are hard to change and powerful personalities enjoy the stability of the status quo, turning that lens inward can often cause a bit of... uneasiness. Khun Voranai joins us to talk about the somewhat controversial nature of his writing, and especially about a recent article he wrote, 'Amart and Prai', which challenged the long-established class structure that governs Thai societal interactions.  Tony also talks about why his trip to Japan was postponed, and Greg rattles on about another one of his bike rides, this time to the village of Baan Bat, where the locals work to preserve their unique art of beautiful, hand-made copper bowls.

S1 E13 · Sun, August 08, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 13: Thais Love Whitey

Ahh, summer time. When everyone heads down to the beach to get that wonderful golden tan that makes you look like a Hollywood star. Except in Asia, where perceptions of skin tone often run counter to what they do in the west. Over here, pasty, white skin is much more desirable and has come to denote affluence, wealth and success.  In This episode of Bangkok Podcast, Anthony and Greg discuss how Thais shun dark skin and yearn for white skin, how beauty products and advertising try to promote the message that you'll only find love and success if you're pasty, and what effect it has on the psyche of someone growing up with a dark complexion. Anthony also gives us the lowdown on his visit to a part of Bangkok that most western expats never see - the cloistered Japanese nightclub scene.

S1 E12 · Mon, August 02, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 12: Thai Language Series 3

In this episode we ask Rikker to walk us through the different ways to address people in Thai, from the polite, to the familiar, to the not recommended. Not all of the terms are direct nouns, and many can be quite creative – for instance, the word to refer to yourself in front of a judge is to essentially insult yourself, thereby elevating the judge to a higher position! Greg also recounts the time he referred to an older person by the right word but with the wrong tone, with unhappy results.

S1 E11 · Sun, July 25, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 11: Patrick Winn

Being a journalist in the 21st century isn't easy. The industry that has essentially functioned the same since it started centuries ago is undergoing massive changes. In fact, in another ten years, journalists and the journalism industry as we know it might not even exist. But thankfully there are still plenty of good journo's out there, and one of them is the Global Post's Patrick Winn, who has written about everything from ghost festivals to redshirt riots to eating dog. On this podcast, we chat with Patrick about what challenges he faces as his industry changes around him, and what dangers come with being a journalist in Thailand - someone whose job it is to write about topics that some people would prefer to keep quiet.

S1 E10 · Sun, July 18, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 10: Launch Party!

Thanks to all who came to the Bangkok Podcast launch party at Bistro 33! It was a great success and we truly enjoyed seeing old and new faces and making new friends. On this episode of the podcast, Tony and Greg talk about the party and how it's the first step into building a community based on none of the boring ol' cliches that Bangkok is known for - girls, bars, and booze. We also talk about how important it is to have these little outlets - parties, networking events, meetings, and such - because no matter how a foreigner fits into Thai culture, you always need the psychological pick-me-up of having a connection to your own culture. Be it a Seinfeld joke or finding a kindred spirit in deciphering the mysteries of Thailand, having a network of like-minded folks - Thai and foreigner alike - can really make you feel like part of a team. We would also like to thank all of you who brought donations of unused clothing to the party, and Smiling Albino for making sure it gets to the people who can use it most.

S1 E9 · Sun, July 11, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 9: Smiling Albino

Traveling is never as easy as they make it look on television travel shows. What many people forget is that an entire production team has been hard at work for weeks before the host ever shows up. As they say, the devil's in the details, and no one knows more about the details of travel than Smiling Albino. For the past ten years, Smiling Albino, founded by Canadians Scott Coates and Daniel Fraser, has been offering unique, custom-built adventures throughout Thailand for anyone who likes to avoid the package feel of package tours. Over the past few years, their success has seen their trips expand into Nepal, Cambodia, Laos and Vietnam, with more destinations on the horizon. In this episode, Tony and Greg talk with Scott about the nuances of travel, the work that goes into planning a trip, and the difference between Japanese and Thai taxi drivers.

S1 E8 · Sun, July 04, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 8: Thai Language Series 2

In the second of our ongoing Thai language series, we continue talking to 'Thai Language Jedi' Rikker Dockum about the complexities of the Thai language. In this episode, we jump onto the much-discussed tone system of Thai, and why foreigners have such a hard time wrapping their head around it while our Thai friends are wondering what the big deal is. Greg and Tony also each share a story or two about how the tones and Romanization aspect of Thai have gotten them into hot water a few times.

S1 E7 · Sun, June 27, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 7: Transportation

When people hear 'Bangkok' they usually think of either red light districts or traffic jams. Well, because they are such good boys, Tony and Greg don't have much experience with the former, but plenty of experience with the latter, and that's what they'll be talking about today. From haggling with tuk-tuk drivers, paying traffic fines for motorcycle taxis or trying to avoid eye infections on the Klong Saen Saeb canal boat, we'll discuss all the modes of transport in this sprawling city, how they fit together, and how to get the most of out of using them.

S1 E6 · Sun, June 20, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 6: Jodi Ettenberg

For our second interview, we are very happy to be joined by Jodi Ettenberg - lawyer, world traveler, riot survivor, political commentator, and fan of all things related to chowing down. Those of you in Bangkok have probably met Jodi, and if not you've likely read her tweets on Twitter, viewed her pictures on travel blogs and news sites, seen her speak about Bangkok's recent political troubles on various television stations, or read her Legal Nomads blog, where she chronicles her adventures over the past 2 years as she's traveled the world. We sit down with Jodi to hear about her trip, what it's like being a solo female traveler in the wide world, and why she left a lucrative career in New York to take third-world buses with chickens, visit refugees in prison, and get crapped on by birds the world over.

S1 E5 · Sun, June 13, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 5: Thai Television

In this episode of the Bangkok Podcast, we discuss something that many foreigners living here have a hard time wrapping their heads around - Thai television shows. From dramatically-enhanced soap operas to variety shows with singing, dancing Nazis, to the brilliance of funny television commercials, the range of options for the average viewer are pretty broad. But what can we learn about Thai society from watching these little diversions? Will sitting through a cat-fight between a rich bitch socialate and a put-upon Cinderella give you an insight into why they have to slap and scream so much? And more importantly - do you care?

S1 E4 · Tue, June 08, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 4: Thai Language Series 1

One of the problems with living in Thailand is that it’s so easy to get by without being very skilled in the Thai language, a mistake that many expats make. To provide some inspiration, we are very happy to be talking to Rikker Dockum, a researcher and Thai language scholar, who will be joining us every month on the Bangkok Podcast. Rather than standard ‘word of the day’ type lessons, Rikker will be chatting with us about the mysteries of the Thai language, tips for learning it, secrets to using it, and his experiences navigating a culture where fluency by a foreigner in the local language will likely be met with wide-eyed stares of anyone you meet. On this first episode, Rikker tells us what methods helped him most as he learned Thai, how it's helped him adapt, and a few funny stories about the reactions he's received. 

S1 E3 · Mon, May 31, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 3: Your First Time In Bangkok

Rarely does someone move to Bangkok with a full support network of friends ready to help them out; more often than not, the first few weeks or months are a bit of a struggle as you figure out how the city works. For this episode of Bangkok Podcast, Anthony and Greg dish out some advice for anyone thinking of moving here, or even for people that have lived here for a while but haven't yet settled fully into their groove. From joining the right networking events to knowing where in the city to live to avoiding the red light districts, they go over a few things that they wish they had known, but instead had to learn through cold, hard experience, with many a night spent wondering if we made the right decision to come here. 

S1 E2 · Sun, May 23, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 2: Prae Sunantaraks

After a tumultuous week that saw many deaths and widespread arson and rioting in Bangkok, we discuss the fallout from the army’s breakup of the redshirt protest site and what it means to Bangkok and the rest of Thailand. We also talk about how most of Bangkok continues as normal, even as a temporary curfew puts a major dent in Bangkok’s nightlife. In addition, we are very happy to be joined by Prae Sunantaraks – nicknamed Fluke – who was born with retinitis pigmentosa, a degenerative retinal disease that is slowly robbing her of her sight. She shares with us the details of The Little Light Project – a charity she started for blind children – and helps us understand how she remains so positive and upbeat even as her world becomes darker and darker – an outlook that many in Bangkok can appreciate these days. She also lets us in on the biggest mystery of all – how a visually-impaired person navigates the treacherous Bangkok sidewalks!

S1 E1 · Sun, May 16, 2010

Bangkok Podcast 1: Best Source of Thai News

In the first edition of our weekly podcast, we discuss the major issue at the moment – the ongoing redshirt protests and the continuing efforts by the military to end them. We also touch on the causes of the conflict, and then discuss what we think are some great resources for keeping on top of new developments in one of the biggest crises to hit Thailand in a very long time.