To The East My Brother

In this our 3rd and final part on 'Doing Business in China', we interview Ms. Bryonie Richards, owner of Studio Ebony. This episode focuses on how to establish a successful business that caters to an already small subset of a minority group. Proving hair care services primarily to Black people, however also being able to cater to other demographics. We speak on the importance on relationship development with the local Chinese in order to smoothly navigate through the complicated process of opening a business, the research required to be able to understand and anticipate the market, and how to create an environment comfortable for your key staff. For more information on Studio Ebony, you can contact on Wei Xin (We Chat): 13816907454 Also, we are now of Facebook!! Search for 'To The East My Brother' and like us!!

In this, the second part in our 3-part series on 'Doing Business in China', where we will interview 3 different professionals and entrepreneurs about how to successfully operate and launch Western-based products and services in China, we interview David Brode. David is the Owner and Head Chef at The Oyster House - located in the Jing An District of Shanghai. In this interview we focus on the topic of 'Introducing Western Products/Services into Main Stream Shanghai' and David shares his experiences on this and more interesting aspects about 'Doing Business in China'. In this episode you also hear one of the best pieces of insight for anyone looking to do business in China - the ability to quickly adapt to changing customer tastes and preferences. To learn more about David and The Oyster House (soon to be renamed to Mojo), see below for contact information. The Oyster House Add: 441 Yuyuan Lu, Jingan District, Shanghai 地址: 上海愚园路441号 Tel: 021 6233 9651

In this, the first part in our 3-part series on 'Doing Business in China', where we will interview 3 different professionals and entrepreneurs about how to successfully operate and launch Western-based products and services in China, we interview Ms. Allison Boulton. Ms. Boulton is the Director of Marketing for North American Premiere Wines and in this interview we discuss penetrating the Chinese middle class, teaching western marketing techniques to local Chinese staff, and teaching the up and coming middle class how to appreciate a product that they aspire too - however do not have experience with. Of course we couldn't resist the opportunity to have Allison share her experiences being a woman in a leadership role in a culture that is still a bit resistance to woman in power - especially a confident, proactive, Western woman. For more information on Ms. Allison Boulton and North American Premiere Wines, please visit www.napwine.com. Also be sure to come back for Part 2, where we are joined be a young entrepreneur whom will share insights on launching a business that provides a product very foreign to the Chinese culture.

In Part 2 of our Year of the Year Chinese New Year discussion, we get down to the top of the list of facts/myths about the celebration. Over 500 million people will travel during the holiday break!! Enjoy Part 2 and Happy Chinese New Year!! 新年快乐！！

In our first episode of both 2014 and the Year of the Horse, we discuss 10 facts about Chinese New Year (CNY) with our friend Eric Ma. Eric provides his personal experiences about CNY and let’s us know if these are facts or myths. We also share our experiences during CNY for the last 6 years. Chinese New Year is the most enjoyable time in China for most foreigners as they can enjoy their city emptied out and very, very relaxful and quiet. Well Perhaps quiet outside of the nightly fireworks that start on New Years Eve and will continue for 15 days…straight!! As you can see in the episode picture, this is the time for mass-travel here in China Enjoy Part 1 and be sure to download Part 2!!

In this episode, we welcome all of our wonderful listners to 2014 and back to the Podcast. We also spend a few minutes to welcome our new users to the podcast and share the goals of the podcast. Enjoy!! As shared in the podcast, here is the link to Dean Sirjue 'Focus on Fitness/ Facebook page where he and his team is providing encourage, support, and motivation to not just those with cancer (future survivors!!), but everyone to 'Focus on Fitness' and improve their mental and physical health. So check out the page and spread the word!! www.facebook.com/DsirjueFocusonFitness

Part 2 - In this episode Colin is joined by his friends Conrad and Yen, from Shenzhen, to discuss the secrets to their marriage success. Regardless of whether the relationship is short or long term, understanding how manage false stereotypes, beliefs and other culture specific 'realities' within your relationship is very key. Listen to part 2 to learn how they overcame early concerns... To submit questions and feedback, please send an audio file or email to totheeastmb@yahoo.com.

In this episode Colin is joined by his friends Conrad and Yen, from Shenzhen, to discuss the secrets to their marriage success. Regardless of whether the relationship is short or long term, understanding how manage false stereotypes, beliefs and other culture specific 'realities' within your relationship is very key. Listen to part 1 to learn how they overcame early concerns... To submit questions and feedback, please send an audio file or email to totheeastmb@yahoo.com.

Last month we posted a podcast about 'Embracing Culture' and it quickly became the most popular episode yet. To thank all of you, we are posting a follow-up interview with Roxana where she goes further into her views on how culture is internal to each of us. Enjoy!! To submit questions and feedback, please send an audio file or email to totheeastmb@yahoo.com.

As we all get homesick at some point in our lives, we need to know what to do with those feelings and more importantly, how to stop feeling homesick. In this episode Colin shares his definition of being homesick, why it is natural, how to avoid, and of course - how to return to happy days once you are in the homesickness 'funk'!! To submit questions and feedback, please send an audio file or email to totheeastmb@yahoo.com.

In this mini-cast, we talk about our drive to the the 73rd episode, which will be the final for the 'To The East My Brother Podcast'.

Part 2 of the episode where we are joined by Roxana De La Rosa, a true 'Global Citizen'. With over 15 years of experience living abroad in 5 countries, Roxana shares her views on what she has learned culture is and how to 'embrace' any culture that you might find yourself in. To submit questions and feedback, please send an audio file or email to totheeastmb@yahoo.com.

In this episode, we are joined by Roxana De La Rosa, a true 'Global Citizen'. With over 15 years of experience living abroad in 5 countries, Roxana shares her views on what she has learned culture is and how to 'embrace' any culture that you might find yourself in. To submit questions and feedback, please send an audio file or email to totheeastmb@yahoo.com.

In this episode we discuss the importance in maintaining active communication with friends and family back home. We also discuss the best applications and tools to use stay in connection with your support base. Prior to this though, we discuss the return home of the Podcast PA, new format for listener feedback, donut sandwiches, and request for Facebook help.

In this episode we finally discuss cross-culture dating - a topic that the listeners have been asking about for months. In this episode we interview our friend Angel, whom shares her experiences in this area. Cross culture dating takes place in every country, however the dynamics here in China, an emerging country where Westerners (foreigners) reign supreme, make this a very hot and sensitive topic. In this interview, we provide insight into this issue.

Air pollution so high that the meters can't read them. Over 30,000 dead pigs floating in the river that supplies Shanghai with drinking water. Don't be alarmed, it is just a typical month here in China. Listen as Colin first jabbers on about a few casual topics and then shares his views and then welcomes in an local Chinese Urban Planner to discuss how this could happen and how the people feel. In Part 3 Tiffany tell is why the dead pigs 'swimming' in the river is acceptable. Do you have access to Facebook? Here in China we don't, so if you have time become a true friend of the podcast and help us to create a Facebook page!! Contact us at totheeastmb@yahoo.com.

Air pollution so high that the meters can't read them. Over 30,000 dead pigs floating in the river that supplies Shanghai with drinking water. Don't be alarmed, it is just a typical month here in China. Listen as Colin first jabbers on about a few casual topics and then shares his views and then welcomes in an local Chinese Urban Planner to discuss how this could happen and how the people feel. Do you have access to Facebook? Here in China we don't, so if you have time become a true friend of the podcast and help us to create a Facebook page!! Contact us at totheeastmb@yahoo.com.

Air pollution so high that the meters can't read them. Over 30,000 dead pigs floating in the river that supplies Shanghai with drinking water. Don't be alarmed, it is just a typical month here in China. Listen as Colin first jabbers on about a few casual topics and then shares his views and then welcomes in an local Chinese Urban Planner to discuss how this could happen and how the people feel. In Part 1, we catch up as usual, then start to discuss the terrible and dangerous air quality in China. Do you have access to Facebook? Here in China we don't, so if you have time become a true friend of the podcast and help us to create a Facebook page!! Contact us at totheeastmb@yahoo.com.

In this episode we continue with the 2nd part of the very insightful interview with Yuan Yuan on Buddhism in China. Also discussed is the next race in HK, the status of our 2013/Year of the Snake social movement, and we introduce our new podcast assistant - Zeynep. Chinese Official Flipping Out in Airport http://beijingcream.com/2013/02/party-official-flips-out-after-missing-his-flight-at-kunming-airpot/

In this, the first official podcast of the Year of the Snake, Colin first touches on a few current headlines such as the polluted air in China and the newly termed Chinese 'Cancer Cities'. We also learn a little about the new Chinese Year - The Water Snake. As we want to start the new year with a fresh and calm mind and body, we interview Yuan Yuan to learn more about how Buddhism is 'truly' supported by the Chinese government and people in addition to what happened when we last tried to organize a Buddhism session in Shanghai.

In this podcast episode, Colin explains the details behind the lack of a new episode in a few months, give some shout-outs to some special people, thanks the listeners, and shares some topics for upcoming podcast. My interview in SZ Daily article - http://szdaily.sznews.com/html/2013-01/04/node_3.htm

In this episode, Colin shares valuable informaton on how to maintain access to the money you have in Chinese banks - and how to get that money back to your home country.

In this mini-cast Colin shares his extreme excitement over the start of the 2012 US National Football Season!! For the first time foreigners can now watch all the games online. No more waiting a day for the replay of a single game. Still have to get up at 1am - but that is a small price to pay!! HAIL TO THE REDSKINS!!! - CCT, Washington Redskins fan foe life!!

In this episode we hear about Colin's bday wishes and in order to dis-spell false accusation on the 'entire' group - he breaks down the different types of foreigners that live, reside, and love Shanghai. Enjoy!!

In episode 25 Colin shares the journey through his 3rd Annual Bday run. This year his run is a hot, long, and painful 39 miles (64km). Listen as his enthusiasm gets harder to maintain as the mileage picks up.

Part 2 of our interview with Ax. How better to kick of the month long celebration then with an interview with Swedish artist Anastasia Ax. The theme of the celebration is 'Self Expression' and Anastasia's work is definitely a strong from of this. Enjoy the interview as topics range from what her art means, how to bring shows to China, how the local fans enjoyed, and how Buddhism has influenced her work. Please visit the website at anastasiaax.se to view AND listen to her work.

We are celebrating Colin's bday and 1 year anniversary of the podcast - ALL MONTH LONG!!! In this mini-cast Colin shares info on the celebration and the theme of the month - Self-Expression!! Instead of sending Colin bday money and gifts, please feel free to submit a bday and/or anniversay wish to him and the show. It's simple to record an audio file and once done - email totheeast@oligye.com.

How better to kick of the month long celebration then with an interview with Swedish artist Anastasia Ax. The theme of the celebration is 'Self Expression' and Anastasia's work is definitely a strong from of this. Enjoy the interview as topics range from what her art means, how to bring shows to China, how the local fans enjoyed, and how Buddhism has influenced her work. Please visit the website at anastasiaax.se to view AND listen to her work.

In this episode Colin with guest Little Fish, reviews his top 5 highlights of the first half of 2012 in Shanghai.

In this episode of 'To The East My brother', Colin breaks down one of the most famous of the PRC policies: The Single Child Policy. There are many truths and falsehoods about the policy that are discussed. In addition feedback from local residents is shared.

In Episode 19, while Colin recovers from the memory of the Great Wall Marathon and prepares for the Phuket Marathon (imagine running in a suana), we take some questions from our loyal and new listeners. Co-host 'Little Fish' reads the questions, ranging from Ireland, Japan, India, USA, and China, while Colin does his best to answer the questions about Chinese beauty, toxic air, 'recreational' activities, and others - all without rambling....

In episode 18, Colin shares his thoughts and goals for the 2012 Great Wall Marathon followed by his recap of a very interesting fight that he was fortunate enough to witness. We then provide a preview for June's Music Month and finish with a conversation about Chen Guang Cheng - the Chinese dissadent that fled to the US Embassy in BJ and is now residing in USA. We also want to announce that we finally have 'chapters'!!! So you can now go directly to the topic of interest.

After seeing Danielle perform and finally meeting her on another occasion, we once again were reminded that everyone has a colorful story to share. Hers’ about the music environment in Shanghai and Asia overall - and how she has succedded in this ever-changing environment. We preview, with commentary, her song 'I Sing In Blue' for the upcoming interview. Danielle Eva is an american jazz vocalist and songwriter whose distinct soulful and breezy style is keeping her in the international spotlight. Fusing jazz harmony, echoes of appalachia, and lilting latin rhythms with the palettes of folk and pop she serenades in shades of blue-eyed soul with a compelling sincerity and a side of sass. www.danielleeva.com

....2:30am morning, throat is swollen to the point where unable to speak and sleep, in Shanghai hospital emergency room armed with notepad and pencil...opps...nobody here can read English...WTF to do!!! In this episode, Colin recaps his visit to the emergency room that resulted with him staying in the hospital for 4 long, long, long days. Although painful, a lot was learned about Chinese hospitals and about 'trust'. Enjoy... Why does the hospital uniform look like a jail uniform? And why did I steal one? LOL...

We continue our discussion with Bellsia on all topics international.

In this podcast, we talk with Bellsia, our Aussie friend on her journey to become an 'International' Woman and her experiences in Asia Pacific. as with most Aussie's the host was challenged throughout the interview...of course in a humorous manner. although the discussion was planned for only 30 minutes, it was so enjoyable that time got away from us. Enjoy part 1 and be sure to listen to part 2.!!

In episode 14, we take a different take on 'International Womans Month'. Instead of simply joining the international(global) celebration of women, we decided to interview 2 'International' women and get their take on what it means to be international and how being a woman has impacted their international careers. In interview #1, we are joined by 'Red', a frequent traveler to China, whom shares with us her thoughts, views, and impressions on being an 'international' woman. **can anybody guess why she is called 'Red'? LOL

In part 2 of the first 'new' podcast in 2012, Colin shares more of his initial views of Shanghai, and asks Maggie if his behavior in certain areas and situations is considered 'wrong' in Shanghai....

In the first 'new' podcast in 2012, we catch up with Colin and learn the details behind his loooong absence. We also have a few updates from earlier episodes including a twist in the 'Baby Yue Yue' incident. Colin, whom is joined by Maggie, also shares his initial impressions of his new home - Shanghai.

In Episode #11, we are joined by Mia, a local Chinese comedianne. In this episode, Mia shares with us her view on foreigners, China's future, day-to-day life, and other humorous stories.

In episode #10, we are joined by LaDiona McDonald, a 2nd year grad student at Peking Univeristy HSBC Business school, who shares with us her experiences in dating, traveling, and adapting to a new culture in China.

Episode 9: In this episode, we start with a brief update on a few items, discuss Colin's view on the top 5 "must have's" if your going to spend time in China, and we end with a brief 'rant' on safety in China.

In Episode #8 we discuss the sad case of Baby Yue Yue, the 2 year old baby that was hit by 2 cars and had up tp 18 people walk bye and not offer help - all caught on tape. The discussion very much gets ranty as the 'excuses' provided by the local Chinese are discussed. For more detail on the specific accident - see this video (http://www.chinawhisper.com/2-year-old-girl-ran-over-by-car-twice-ignored-by-18-passersby#more-3546)

In Episode 7, we are fresh back from vacation and ready to discuss the new mandatory Social Pension program for foreigners working in China. The discussion focuses on whether this is just another program designed to drive more revenue from foreigner workers in China or if it is truly a worthwhile program. Due to jet-lag, the discussion does get a bit ranty, however we try to stay on topic and focused.

In episode #6, Colin is joined by a local Chinese resident, ‘Mike’ to discuss how the Chinese culture really accepts and views foreigners, whether race plays a role, and how Western influence is affecting China and the Chinese people. * apologies for the audio quality in this episode.

In episode #5, Colin continues his conversation with Kevin Smith, Professor of Writing, Debate, and International Relations at Shenzhen University.

In episode #4, Colin is joined by another African-American male, Kevin Smith, Professor of Writing, Debate, and International Relations at Shenzhen University, to discuss the education system, challenges and benefits for black people in the local Chinese environment, and other related topics such as dating, challenges faced getting a hair cut, and integrating into the local society.

Episode 3 - The day-to-day experience of a brother living in Shenzhen China. Discussion includes little known information on living in China from a black perspective, China culture, how to navigate through the Chinese culture, and interviews with other foriengers and Chinese on their experiences in the PRC. All with a bit of casual humor. Episode 3 shares the ordeal I went through, starting in my first 5 minutes after arriving in HK airport, through my arrival at the hotel in SZ. It took me over 1 year to be able to tell this story without having a 'strong' emotional feeling. Enjoy and please laugh!!

Episode 2 - The day-to-day experience of a brother living in Shenzhen China. Discussion includes little known information on living in China from a black perspective, China culture, how to navigate through the Chinese culture, and interviews with other foriengers and Chinese on their experiences in the PRC. All with a bit of casual humor. Episode 2 discusses the 3 items that stood out the most upon my initial move to China. High population, language barrier, and absence of black people.

Episode 1 - The day-to-day experience of a brother living in Shenzhen China. Discussion includes little known information on living in China from a black perspective, China culture, how to navigate through the Chinese culture, and interviews with other foriengers and Chinese on their experiences in the PRC. All with a bit of casual humor. Episode 1 provides background on your host - Colin C. Thompson, and what motivated him to journey to China.