In this episode of SEA Dreams, we delve into the rise of digital nomadism and its unique relationship with Southeast Asia. What began as a niche lifestyle for remote workers has now evolved into a global movement—but how has Southeast Asia become a hub for these modern wanderers?

From the co-working cafés of Bali to the bustling nomad communities in Ho Chi Minh City and Chiang Mai, we explore the factors that make this region so attractive. Low costs of living, vibrant cultures, and welcoming communities are just the beginning—yet questions remain about the long-term impact on local economies, cultures, and communities.

Join us as we examine the opportunities and challenges of digital nomadism in Southeast Asia, the ethical dilemmas it presents, and the delicate balance between embracing global connectivity and preserving local identity. This episode offers a thought-provoking look at how the digital nomad movement is reshaping both lives and landscapes across the region.

Welcome to SEA Dreams! Explore Southeast Asia’s dynamic past, present, and future landscape through the lens of culture, food, business, history, and politics. Each episode deep dives into expert analysis on key events shaping Southeast Asia. Whether you're a professional, student, or curious listener, this podcast will provide fresh perspectives and thought-provoking conversations on the forces driving change in this influential region.

An Vo is an Australian-Vietnamese living in America with a background in law, politics, economics, and multi-cultural affairs. He has advised both state and federal government bodies on multi-cultural affairs. Having emigrated to Australia at age 5 An has spent two decades each in both Australia and the US but still retains his Aussie accent.

Phillip Van is a commercial director and screenwriter whose work has earned recognition from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Filmmaker Magazine, and awards at festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Half-Vietnamese and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he draws on his unique cultural background to inform his creative perspective. His projects are currently in development with major studios, including Netflix and Fifth Season.

Kenneth Nguyen is a Los Angeles based podcaster and film producer with over two decades in the Vietnamese media space. Kenneth hosts and produces The Vietnamese podcast with over 400 episodes recorded. Kenneth Nguyen is a founding partner of EAST Films.

In this episode of SEA Dreams, we explore the Michelin star rating system’s journey from its beginnings as a French tire company’s travel guide to its status as a global authority on fine dining. But can one rating system really capture the full spectrum of culinary excellence worldwide?

As Michelin expands into Southeast Asia—covering everything from Singapore’s fine dining to Bangkok’s vibrant street food—questions arise about the balance between global standards and local flavors.

Join us as we examine Michelin’s criteria for awarding stars, its impact on Southeast Asia’s diverse culinary culture, and the dynamic relationship between tradition and modernity in the region’s food scene. This episode offers insights into how global dining trends intersect with Southeast Asia’s unique flavors and traditions, sparking fresh debates about authenticity, cultural preservation, and what “quality” really means.

Welcome to SEA Dreams! Explore Southeast Asia’s dynamic past, present, and future landscape through the lens of culture, food, business, history, and politics. Each episode deep dives into expert analysis on key events shaping Southeast Asia. Whether you're a professional, student, or curious listener, this podcast will provide fresh perspectives and thought-provoking conversations on the forces driving change in this influential region.

An Vo is an Australian-Vietnamese living in America with a background in law, politics, economics, and multi-cultural affairs. He has advised both state and federal government bodies on multi-cultural affairs. Having emigrated to Australia at age 5 An has spent two decades each in both Australia and the US but still retains his Aussie accent.

Phillip Van is a commercial director and screenwriter whose work has earned recognition from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Filmmaker Magazine, and awards at festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Half-Vietnamese and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he draws on his unique cultural background to inform his creative perspective. His projects are currently in development with major studios, including Netflix and Fifth Season.

Kenneth Nguyen is a Los Angeles based podcaster and film producer with over two decades in the Vietnamese media space. Kenneth hosts and produces The Vietnamese podcast with over 400 episodes recorded. Kenneth Nguyen is a founding partner of EAST Films.

Join us as we look into the histories behind civil law and common law, examining how these legal frameworks influence governance, judiciary processes, and even day-to-day life in Southeast Asian countries.

Have you ever wondered why some countries have a more codified, statute-driven approach to law while others rely heavily on judicial rulings and precedents?

With insights into colonial legacies, religious influences, and local customs, this episode will explore the unique blend of legal traditions that define Southeast Asia. Whether you're curious about how laws are made or how they affect everything from economic policy to personal freedoms, this episode offers a glimpse into the legal identities shaping the region.

Welcome to SEA Dreams! Explore Southeast Asia’s dynamic past, present, and future landscape through the lens of culture, food, business, history, and politics. Each episode deep dives into expert analysis on key events shaping Southeast Asia. Whether you're a professional, student, or curious listener, this podcast will provide fresh perspectives and thought-provoking conversations on the forces driving change in this influential region.

An Vo is an Australian-Vietnamese living in America with a background in law, politics, economics, and multi-cultural affairs. He has advised both state and federal government bodies on multi-cultural affairs. Having emigrated to Australia at age 5 An has spent two decades each in both Australia and the US but still retains his Aussie accent.

Phillip Van is a commercial director and screenwriter whose work has earned recognition from The New York Times, Rolling Stone, Filmmaker Magazine, and awards at festivals such as Sundance and Berlin. Half-Vietnamese and raised in Honolulu, Hawaii, he draws on his unique cultural background to inform his creative perspective. His projects are currently in development with major studios, including Netflix and Fifth Season.

Kenneth Nguyen is a Los Angeles based podcaster and film producer with over two decades in the Vietnamese media space. Kenneth hosts and produces The Vietnamese podcast with over 400 episodes recorded. Kenneth Nguyen is a founding partner of EAST Films.