Dive into the complete episode list for HomeGrown. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.
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Title
Pub. Date
Duration
Fo & Lou | ...on Uber, how to change the world, and sad books
16 Apr 2022
00:54:58
On this final episode of the season, Cruella Lou-ville and Double 0 Fo catch up on the end of the season and what to expect from season 5!
We have thoroughly enjoyed making another season of the podcast and hope you have enjoyed listening and are looking forward to more after the break. In this episode we catch up on the books were reading and some of our top pics, Fo rants about the news which was very entraining , and we get a chance to answer the quickfire questions ourselves.
Hope you have a wonderful bank holiday (if that's a thing where you are) and see you soon!
Fo and Lou.
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Alicia | ...on backing yourself, and being backed by others.
10 Apr 2022
00:45:44
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Alicia Beale, the 38 year old owner of The Aftermath and another example of someone coming to the city for a few months and staying for many years.
Alicia shares her 16 year experience in Hong Kong after coming to the city at 23 from the US to visit her best friend. We get into how easy it is to get lost in the HK sauce initially, and how it takes some time to find the right balance and make it a sustainable but fulfilling home.
We discuss how she didn't expect such a dynamic city at first and she shares some of the challenges she met, and the growth that comes with the transition from your 20s to 30s....AS WELL AS her experience starting and running businesses in Hong Kong over the last 3 crazy years. Enjoyyyy!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Melanie | …on 25 years in Hong Kong, an Irish stalker, and the itch to stitch!
06 Feb 2022
00:47:49
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Melanie Bell, a real expat OG who moved to Hong Kong 25 years ago for the most unique reason we've had on the podcast so far (no spoilers)....and I don't think we can top this one.
Melanie tells us about how she came to the city just before handover, what HK and the black community was like at that time, and how she finds the city now as an older member of society. We had so many listeners request for guests from the older expat community and we now see why. Melanie takes us on an adventure through time and across the globe, so this episode is dotted with a few gems for your start of the week.
We intend on featuring more guests like this so if you are, or know someone that has years and years of experience in the city, do the right thing, hit us up!
Enjoy!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Ebele Onyeabo a Lawyer and Legal research who moved to Hong Kong to pursue a PhD at Chinese University Hong Kong (CUHK).
We talk about the highs and lows of doing a PhD in Hong Kong, and what that was like during the protests. We also touch on what it's like living far from central and how that plays in to socialising and dating.
A hilarious episode to start off your week, Ebele had us laughing non stop. Enjoy !
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In the first interview of the new season, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Fo's favourite guest ever!
There were some bold claims about this guest in the last episode and so far we're keeping that same energy. We kick off the new season with a fresh perspective on Hong Kong and a guest that has come to the city for love of all things.
Can't think of what else to say without giving too much away, but there's a pretty good rant in this one.
Enjoy!
-- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Website | Instagram | Email
In this first episode of of the new season, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo catch up on the Christmas break, and how weird it has become in the COVID era. We also go through some New Years resolutions for the two co-hosts as well as some resolutions for the podcast.
We have our first guests starting next week and in the meantime if you haven't already, please checkout or super quick questionnaire if you want to share some feedback on the podcast or just show some lurrvee.
Enjoy!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Fo & Lou | …on TEDx, bringing joy back to the UK, and mindless productivity
12 Dec 2021
00:33:44
In this final episode of Season 3, Louisa and The Fantastic Fo have a heart to heart on what has been going on over the last few months. We talk about Lou's return to the city to be a TEDx Speaker, how it feels being back in Hong Kong, and Fo shares his experience with burnout and mindless productivity. We also share when to expect us back!
In the meantime, we'd really appreciate it if you took 2 minutes to fill out our end of season questionnaire. This will help us plan out the next season and keep doing more of what you've loved so far. We hope you have a great holiday season and can't wait to be back with season 4!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Keisha A Brown | ...on one of the first black expats, China in 1955 and synchronised swimming
05 Dec 2021
00:49:24
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Dr Keisha A Brown, Assistant Professor of History at Tennessee State. Keisha gives us a unique insight into the life of one of the first Black expats to China and a general idea of what being black in China meant on 1955.
A strong penultimate episode to the season, in this episode Keisha fields our sprawling (and sometimes basic) questions about what early events formed the perceptions of blackness in China, and also how African Americans looked East for civil rights support.
Really hope you enjoy this one because we sure as hell did !
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Ollie | ...on being Austrian, Ugandan and mad about planes!
28 Nov 2021
00:43:38
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Oliver Christopher Kaigwa Haas, a 32 year old designer, engineer and entrepreneur. Ollie moved to Hong Kong 7 years ago from Vienna to take on a dream job with Cathay Pacific after sending a personal letter to their then CTO.
A huge aviation and sustainability advocate, Ollie shares his passion for aviation and technology, how he balances his time in the city with many of the sports that Hong Kong is great for, and the fact that he is probably the only guest we've had that cooks more than eats out in this the restaurant capital of the world.
Of course we also discuss what it has been like being black in Hong Kong, Ollie's mixed Austrian and Ugandan heritage, and how that has made him much more "buoyant" when travelling around the world.
Another great episode for your Monday morning and definitely check out Ollie's TedTalk here. As always, If you enjoyed this episode be sure to scroll down and leave us a review. Enjoy!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
James Brown - It's a Man's World (feat Michael Jackson)"
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
Becoming by Michelle Obama "As much as I love Barack, it's Michelle's story that really brought out the human story of the family's journey"
The Book of Hope by Jane Goodall
Sapiens by Yuval Nohal Harari
Will Smith's biography "It drops on Tuesday, but I already know it's going to be good!"
Mareika | ...on being white, and also black, and this one time, Brazilian
21 Nov 2021
00:58:14
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Mareika Chirikure, the African Literatures and editorial manager at the Africa Center in Hong Kong. Mareika is here in Hong Kong for a year before going back to Germany for a Masters, and she talks to us about her experiences here in Hong Kong as well as her mixed heritage upbringing.
Unfortunately Louisa was recovering from a cold so she had lost her voice in this recording..but fortunately the Fantastic Fo was there to make fun of her appropriately! An exceptionally fun episode hence the longer length, we talk about race, and culture, and books, and of course Hong Kong.
A perfect way to start off you're week this week and Mareika comes with a stack of great book recommendations just ahead of the holiday season. Enjoy, and if you do, send us a message, like, subscribe ...you know the drill
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Keril Victor a 28 year old singer , songwriter, producer and finalist of one of Taiwan’s most popular TV singing competitions, Jungle Voice. Keril takes us on a journey from sunny St Lucia, to a stage in Taiwan performing for an audience of over 20 million people across Asia.
We of course talk about music, fame and what is next for the young star, but also get down to the grit of living, studying and working in Taiwan. As Keril spent his first years studying Mandarin and then Economics, we hear about what studying in a foreign language was like and how the black experience in Taiwan can be so...paradoxical.
A fantastic episode to start of your week and perhaps some new music to listen to throughout the week. Enjoy and let us know what you think, send us an email or comment on our instagram, we love hearing from you!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to the wonderful Chrissy Zemura, a 31 year old Hair stylist who is working in Hong Kong on an international TV show. Chrissy moved to Hong Kong from Sydney where she juggles being a mother with running her salon, and working on tv and film sets.
An epic story about chasing your dreams and putting in the work, Chrissy tells us the story of how she went from studying accounting and finance in the UK, to becoming a hair stylist to the stars, a business owner , a mother, and an advocate for diversity and inclusion within the national curriculum for hair and beauty.
A fun and inspirational episode for your Monday morning and don't miss all the gossip about Nicole Kidman in Hong Kong. Enjoy!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Celina | ...on long distance relationships, perspectives of blackness, and Hong Kong vibrancy
03 Apr 2022
00:39:55
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Celina Fairbairn, founder of CGDLondon who (eventually) moved to Hong Kong from London by way of Rotterdam. Celina shares with us her experience moving to HK in the midst of the pandemic and Hong Kongs frequently changing travel restrictions.....the things we do for love !
We discuss the entrepreneurial culture in HK vs London, they differences Celina found in lifestyle, working and networking cultures and how she has been perceived as someone who could be described as "racially ambiguous" *. We also talk about the difficulties and dynamics of long distance relationships and the various different stages they progress through.
A lovely chat for your Monday morning , Enjoy!
* God I really hope no one has any issue with me using this term but if you do, let me know.
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Carl Junior AKA the black expat. Carl is a full time podcaster (amongst many other things) who moved to Taiwan 11 years ago from Chicago. Carl talks us through moving to Beijing and then Taiwan at a time before google maps and Facebook, and how adjusting (and growing up to some extent) in Taiwan turned it into a place he now calls home.
We hear about how he started the first 100% black owned bar and art gallery in Taiwan, wrote a book, and started a podcast, all while managing a school department. We delve into some great topics, and Carl shares some insights into dating, living and the importance of sharing our experiences.
Definitely a great one to start off your week, and if you're listening and you've visited any of the places mentioned, share the story on instagram and tag us!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Chef Mutaro | ...on opportunities, challenges and triumphs
23 Oct 2021
00:51:14
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Chef Mutaro, a Senegal born Parisian who moved to Hong Kong 8 years ago to take on what would later become the restaurant capital of the world.
Mutaro is Executive Chef & General Manager at Le Comptoir Group, which has 5 venues across the city, and he shares with us his journey from Senegal to Hong Kong, with many amazing pitstops along the way.
A sprawling tale that takes us from the Talibe in Senegal, to the restaurant scene in Paris with Alain Ducasse, to London with Joël Robuchon, before a casual stint in Lebanon and then finally Hong Kong.
Such an inspirational story of struggle, hard work, and triumph, and a special insight into the little known Talibe in Senegal. We hope you enjoy listening to this one as much as we did making it.
Enjoy!
-- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Bernise Springer, a 31 year old Foreign Service Officer who first moved to Taipei from St Lucia 8 years ago.
Bernise talks to us about life in Taiwan as a professional and as a Mandarin Chinese student. We also get an in-depth discussion about Reverse Culture Shock (going home and it not feeling right) and how home can be a place where you aren't necessarily surrounded by people who look like you.
A great episode for anyone thinking about studying in Taiwan, moving back home or just wondering where home might-could be.
Oh and don't miss a bit of beat-boxing at the end! -- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Joy | ...on skin care, identity and.... illumination?
10 Oct 2021
00:31:46
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Joy Kawuma, a 22 year old Make-up Artist who was born and raised in Hong Kong but now lives in Bali!
Joy speaks to us about what it was like growing up in Hong Kong, choosing or not choosing an identity as a person of mixed heritage, and swapping concrete jungle for ...jungle jungle.
A fresh and bubbly voice to start off your week with, enjoy and make sure to check out Joy's meditation recommendation !
-- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Whitney | ...on mental health, small town living, and Taekwondo in the park
29 Sep 2021
00:52:09
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Whitney Cele. A 30 year old writer, travel consultant & curator (formerly foreign English teacher) who moved to Huwei, Taiwan from Durban, South Africa.
In our first Taiwan focussed episode of the season, Whitney breaks down her experience in the small town of Huwei, from fear and first impressions, to finding friends and becoming more adventurous and seeing more of the island.
Whitney opens up about how her mental health affected her decision to take the leap and move, and how being outside that comfort zone helped get her to a better place. A great story teller and winner of the 'longest Homegrown monologue', Whitney shares a few choice stories which bring her experiences to life!
We hope you enjoy this one as much as we enjoyed making it!
-- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In the first interview of the new season, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Mubarak Murafa. A 30 year old Nigerian senior product designer who has lived in Hong Kong for 28 years.
As Mubarak's family moved to Hong Kong when he was 2 years old, we discuss the school, to university, to workforce experience in Hong Kong and highlight Mubarak's more peculiar path through that as an "extreme minority". We discuss the the additional dynamic of Nigerian culture and its emphasis on education, and ask that age old question "what is home really?".
Definitely one for anyone looking to study in Hong Kong or is interested in the tech space, and a bright and bubbly conversation for your Monday morning.
Enjoy!
-- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
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Your faves are back again and this season is all about 'Mas'...HomeGrown is coming to you bigger and better than ever!
It's been quite possibly the longest break in the history of breaks, but join Louisa and The Fantastic Fo as they catch up on all the happenings of the last few months. From relocations to new locations, tune in to find out Lou's mismatched glassware woes, Fo's super secret surprise (is this the best-kept or worst-kept secret?) and what to expect in coming months...
-- All our stuff: If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can follow and message us on social media or by email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app.
Fo & Lou | …on outrage, the myth of race, and good PR
25 Apr 2021
00:26:34
In this final episode of Season 2, Louisa and The Fantastic Fo ask the question of what is next, for our hosts, the black community, and the quest to destroy the single narrative.
After a quick recap of the most memorable moments of the season, Lou gets Fo in the guest's seat to share what he has learned over the season and the past year. Having started the podcast during the height of the BLM movement, Lou and Fo discuss where we are now, and how we must continue to counter the negative myths of race with informative, inspirational and entertaining stories.
If you have enjoyed listening to HomeGrown so far, please help us out by subscribing and rating us on Apple Podcasts, and wherever else you listen to your podcasts. This REALLY helps us to grow our following and continue to bring you great stories from great guests doing great things.
HomeGrown will be back after a short break, so stay tuned for season 3 and follow us on Instagram & Twitter for updates. You can also email us at homegrownthepodcast@gmail.com for info, questions or just to say Hi!
Juanita | ...on being a lawyer, actor and trailing wolf
18 Apr 2021
00:57:45
In a very special episode this week Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Juanita Ingram, an attorney, author and star of the TV show, The Expats International Ingrams. In a change from our usual list of Hong Kong-based guests, Juanita has been living in Taipei, Taiwan for two years, and gives us an insight into life in the city.
We talk first impressions in and of Taiwan, the power of a trailing spouse and the realities of race relations and prejudice in Taiwan compared to the UK and US.
Join us for this thought-provoking but often-hilarious chat...we bet you've never heard a more memorable pronunciation of "Ascot"!
-- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app.
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-- ICYMI: We've recently been featured in US News, check out the article here! You can find some of our other press and links here.
Anisha | ...on being Black and Asian, and going viral
11 Apr 2021
00:45:18
This week Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Anisha Thai, a civil engineer and content creator who moved to HK 3.5 yrs ago from Paris. Join us as we talk to her about the motivation behind her engineering career and how that compares to her passion for dance. Plus she speaks very frankly about life in Hong Kong, internalised racism and navigating being both Black and Asian in a city that did not accept her in the way that she expected.
-- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or by email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In this week's episode we speak to the wonderful Janelle Mimms who joins us again and shares her Hong Kong experience over the last 2 years. Last week we re-released her first episode where we talked about all the excitement and newness of moving to Hong Kong, and this week we catch up on how the struggles of the last 2 years have affected that experience, our mental health, and our outlook.
As you can tell straight away from her monologue, we get into some really tough topics, and Janelle's openness caused us to share some of our struggles as well. We absolutely loved this episode and Janelle, and we can't wait for you to hear it.
Enjoy!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Innocent Mutanga, a social entrepreneur and finance professional. Innocent has been in HK for over 7 years after moving from Zimbabwe as a refugee. He shares his remarkable story of fleeing to Hong Kong, living homeless for months as a refugee, winning the right to study, and joining a global financial company before starting The Africa Centre.
One of our longer episodes due to the sheer depth of the conversation, we touch on a lot of topics ranging from the impact of colonialism, to the history of Chungking Mansions and our old friend Mr "single narrative ". The perfect episode for the long weekend, hope you enjoy listening as much as we did. -- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or by email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Guleed | ...on mental health, quarantine and swiping right in the jungle
28 Mar 2021
00:49:37
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Guleed Dualeh, a Psychologist who moved to Hong Kong from Denmark three and a half years ago.
Mental health has really come to the forefront in the last few years, and particularly with the events of the past year, it is one that is discussed more and more in the Black community. Guleed shares his observations on these changes and the importance of taking care of our mental health. He talks to us about his life and work in Hong Kong compared to some of his previous postings in South Sudan, Kenya and other countries. Plus we talk life in quarantine and Tinder etiquette. Join us for another great conversation...
-- We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help is grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app.
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Sharon | ...on uninformed optimism, missed connections and TEA!
21 Mar 2021
00:52:22
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Sharon Foretia, a VP of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion who spent two years in Hong Kong before moving back home to the United States in July 2020.
Sharon takes us through the drama, comedy and even change management theory of her experience living and working Hong Kong, and what triggered her move home.
And step aside #HurtBae, our very own Fantastic Fo finds himself in the hot seat, but we get to hear both sides of the story...
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HG is taking the week off, so there will be no guest interview this week. We won't leave you hanging though, so check out our two favourite podcasts while you wait and we'll be back with you next week with another fantastic episode!
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Notes and links from this episode:
Fo's favourite podcast: Revisionist History by Malcom Gladwell Lou's favourite podcast: RACE2RISE by Renee Sterling & Rondette Amoy
Aliki | ...on double beds, midnight watermelon and Serena Williams
07 Mar 2021
00:45:48
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Aliki Jonas a performing arts teacher who recently moved to Hong Kong from Shanghai by way of Melbourne Australia. Brand new to the city and moving during the pandemic, Aliki talks about the contrast between Hong Kong and Shanghai in terms of work and play, and gives us another look into tiny apartments in the City.
In this hilarious episode, Aliki discusses coming from a small town in Australia, being the only black family in town and the funny but exhausting encounters she has had. An episode full of laughs, gasps, and short stories, and definitely one to share with a friend!
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Hervé | ...on entrepreneurship and multilingual 3-year-olds
28 Feb 2021
00:44:11
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Hervé Kozikila, the (very French!) Head of IT Procurement for BNPP and co-founder & CEO of Feedelon, a marketplace promoting sustainable brands. He moved to Hong Kong six years ago after leaving Paris for stints in London, Singapore and eventually Hong Kong.
We talk about his experience starting a business in Hong Kong and the importance of finding the right partners. Then we learn more about family life in Hong Kong - the contrast to Singapore, apartment surprises and his son meeting his doppelgänger in Marks & Spencer...
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Dionne | ...on pregnancy, elite teaching and raising a blended family.
20 Feb 2021
00:48:43
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Dionne Lashley, Head of Middle school at an International school in Hong Kong and a mother of 4. She moved to Hong Kong almost 8 years ago from Barbados feeling the need for more challenge, she has managed to find that as well love and a new family along the way.
We discuss the charming yet difficult conversations surrounding blended families, (especially in a place where they are all in the ethnic minority) pregnancy, paternity leave, and medical practices in Hong Kong.....and Fo continues his search for the perfect podcast intro.
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In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Nic Jarret , a regional legal counsel for markets and financial services. Born to Jamaican parents, Nic moved to Hong Kong 7 years ago from London.
We discuss what it's like being black and gay in Hong Kong, the differences and similarities between Asian and Black culture (especially concerning family), as well as Nic's journeys through law, psychotherapy and trail running!
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Janaia | ...on baggage, hair tugs and the music industry in HK ( pre and post COVID-19 )
07 Feb 2021
00:38:46
In this first episode of season 2, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Janaia Joy Farrell, an International Recording and Performing Artist from Toronto and the lead singer of Hong Kong’s #1 Soul/Funk/R&B band Onpoint.
Janaia talks to us about the biases we sometimes carry when we move to new places and gives an insight into the music performance industry in Hong Kong (after eight and a half years) and how COVID-19 has affected it. Listen out for a special outro from Janaia right at the end!
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We're baaaaack! We've a whole month (and a bit) off - but who's counting?
Join Louisa and The Fantastic Fo as they catch up on the holidays, Fo getting stuck in London, Lou's new job, Fo's new niece and the Bali controversy. Tune in for an update and to find out what to expect from the rest of the season!
From the Vault | ...on dating, self-discovery and flying babies
20 Mar 2022
00:41:47
The Fantastic Fo is the Infirm Fo this week, so in a plot twist, we're bringing you one from the vault...
In this episode, your hosts Louisa and The Fantastic Fo talk to Janelle Mims, a New Yorker living in Hong Kong since early 2019. Dive straight in to find out why people are throwing babies at her and what is so problematic about the word "chocolate".
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
In this final episode of Season 1, Louisa and The Fantastic Fo look back on memorable moments and learnings from the interviews so far, and plans for the future...
We'll be back in January with more great interviews. Wishing you all safe and happy holidays! Special thanks to:
Yeleche Woluchor
Eniola Williams
Aaina Bhargava
Eric Olander
Cobus van Staden
Please subscribe and rate us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify and other platforms; this really helps to boost our ratings and reach more people.
Nicola | ...on uncomfortable conversations and a questionable gaydar
22 Nov 2020
00:44:10
In the final guest interview of the first season, Louisa and The Fantastic Fo speak to Nicola Ezinne Onyema, a UX writer (and can we say singer/songwriter?!) who moved from London to Hong Kong in January 2020.
Nicola speaks frankly and hilariously about everything from schooling taxi drivers, to her questionable gaydar and experience navigating the LGBT community in Hong Kong. Once again we're reminded of the complexity of the human character and the importance of seeing people as more than just a race or ethnicity, but as individuals - layered and complex. Join us for laughs and captionable quotes: "When the gap calls, you have to answer" haha!
*Episode contains adult themes and language*
We want to hear from you! Each week our guest shares a story from their experience living abroad - sometimes funny, sometimes outrageous and sometimes quite heartbreaking and now it's your turn... For the final episode we want your stories! Send us your 2-3 minute monologue and we'll pick a couple to share in next week's show. Send to us via: Twitter | Instagram | Email. It's a great way to share your voice and your story so we're excited to hear from you!
Sammy | ...on being a repository for black culture
15 Nov 2020
00:46:43
In this episode, Louisa and The Fantastic Fo speak to Sammy Dodoo, a barber who has lived in Hong Kong for 16 years after moving from Ghana.
Hair is a central part of black culture and for so many black men (and some women!) arriving in Hong Kong, "where can I get a haircut" is an important question...and the the answer is often "Sammy!"
Over the years, Sammy has built a life in Hong Kong with his wife and two kids, growing his business and positioning himself as an essential part of the black community. He talks to us about his experience in the city, some of the challenges he's faced and the things that give him hope for the progression of the society in terms of building a more inclusive culture.
Please subscribe and rate us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Plus we'd love to hear from you! - Send us your questions and comments on social media or by email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Christianne | ...on Trinidad, culture shock and raising a self-confident daughter
08 Nov 2020
00:57:48
In today's episode, Louisa and The Fantastic Fo speak to Christianne Joseph, an education centre manager who moved to Hong Kong from Trinidad and Tobago.
In the three years Christianne has lived in Hong Kong she has made a home for herself and her 10 year old daughter, guiding her as she grows up in a culture significantly different to Trinidad.
Christianne talks about the culture shock she felt moving to Hong Kong, shares a bit about Trinidad and it's culture...even giving The Fantastic Fo tips on how to improve his whine! Join us for a chuckle and some food for thought.
Please subscribe and rate us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Plus we'd love to hear from you - you can send us your questions and comments on social media or by email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Our first remote episode! This week Louisa and The Fantastic Fo speak with Loye Oyedotun, a corporate solicitor who spent six months in Hong Kong as the final seat of his training contract.
Most of our guests so far have been living in Hong Kong for a year or more, but with Loye we bring a different perspective. A lot of expats' initial experience of Hong Kong is through a work assignment or secondment and Loye talks to us about exactly that. Coming to Hong Kong with a set end date means taking the city by the horns...or by the balls if you prefer!
And as a special treat, we answer the quickfire round as requested during our recap/Q&A episode.
Subscribe and rate us wherever you listen to your podcasts. And we'd love to hear from you, send us your questions and comments: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Jarius | ...on Black Arts, Sonic Mixology and what NOT to say to your partner's mother
25 Oct 2020
00:44:28
In this episode, Louisa and The Fantastic Fo speak with Jarius King, a 35 year old Chicago native who's lived in Hong Kong for five years.
Since moving to Hong Kong to start his family, Jarius has continued to make a name for himself as an educator and entertainer. We talk through what it means to be an expatriate vs an immigrant, his experience as a Mandarin-speaking entertainer and the hilarity that often ensues when learning a new language.
Please subscribe and rate us wherever you listen to your podcasts. Plus we'd love to hear from you - you can send us your questions and comments on social media or by email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Please feel free to share or write to us with any other good resources you have come across.
Mid-Season Recap and Q&A
11 Oct 2020
00:52:46
A mid-season special - The Fantastic Fo and Lou talk through highlights from the episodes so far and deep dive into a couple of the hot topics that have come up on the show.
Plus we answer some of your burning questions from- everything from how to find jobs in Hong Kong to our favourite Sunday roast (spoiler alert: yam and egg for the win!)
Kat | ...on seizing opportunities, burnout culture and scumbags
04 Oct 2020
00:46:47
In this episode, Louisa and The Fantastic Fo talk to Kat Ofori-Atta, a Ghanaian-born investment banker who moved from New York three years ago.
We discuss the intentionality behind his move, dealing with burnout culture and the career benefits of working in Hong Kong. Kat talks us through his experience as a black man in Hong Kong and the role that privilege plays. Join us for yet another colourful journey in a black expat's shoes.
Next week will be a special episode where we review and answer all your questions - no matter how big or small. As always, we'd love to hear from you - join the conversation on Instagram: @homegrownthepodcast or email us at homegrownthepodcast@gmail.com.
Harmony | ...on standing out, media representation and doing it for the 'gram
27 Sep 2020
00:42:35
In this episode, Louisa and The Fantastic Fo talk to model, student and entrepreneur Harmony Ilunga who moved to Hong Kong as a refugee when she was 12 years old.
She talks to us about her experience growing up in two very different cultures, creating her own lane in the Hong Kong fashion industry and the changes she's seen since the global focus on the Black Lives Matter movement.
In this week's episode, Louisa and the Fantastic Fo speak to Akinsola Jeje a 50 year old Teacher , amateur historian and poet who moved to Hong Kong 16 years ago from Canada.
Akin brought his wealth of knowledge and experience to the podcast, taking us on a journey back in time and giving us his observations of culture in Hong Kong and Japan where he spent a few years before arriving in the city he now calls home.
We thoroughly enjoyed this one and we hope you do too.
Enjoy!
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We love putting the show together for you, and we hope you love it too! If you do, a great way to help us grow is to subscribe to the show and rate/review us on your podcast app so more people find us.
If you have any questions, comments or potential guests for us, you can reach us on social media or drop us an email: Twitter | Instagram | Email
Notes and links from this episode:
Guest Facebook: Akinsola Jeje
Tracy-Alero | ...on debentures and "alternative night-time economies"
20 Sep 2020
00:42:52
In this episode Louisa and The Fantastic Fo talk to Tracy, a mother of two who moved to Hong Kong six years ago as a Finance Director for an international bank. Tracy doesn't hold back as we discuss everything from moving to Hong Kong with kids (and the debentures required) to alternative night-time economies. Plus a very interesting super power....
Minou (part II) | ...on friendship, music and godly lips
16 Sep 2020
00:37:02
In the second part of this episode, your hosts Louisa and The Fantastic Fo continue the conversation with Minou Bakana, a Congolese-Frenchman living in Hong Kong.
Five years into Hong Kong life and Minou has made a home away from home through a group of close-knit friends and fulfilling his passions in music and food. A software developer by day, Minou spends his free time championing African music through DJing, and exploring all the delights of the Hong Kong restaurant scene in his hilarious and almost-erotic food blog. Bold, funny and insightful, join us in exploring Hong Kong through Minou's eyes.
Minou (part I) | ...on friendship, music and godly lips
13 Sep 2020
00:35:19
In this episode, your hosts Louisa and The Fantastic Fo talk to Minou Bakana, a Congolese-Frenchman living in Hong Kong.
Five years into Hong Kong life and Minou has made a home away from home through a group of close-knit friends and fulfilling his passions in music and food. A software developer by day, Minou spends his free time championing African music through DJing, and exploring all the delights of the Hong Kong restaurant scene in his hilarious and almost-erotic food blog. Bold, funny and insightful, join us in exploring Hong Kong through Minou's eyes.
Be sure to subscribe and follow us on Instagram: @homegrownthepodcast. You can also email us at homegrownthepodcast@gmail.com.
Janelle | ...on dating, self-discovery and flying babies
06 Sep 2020
00:40:39
In this episode, your hosts Louisa and The Fantastic Fo talk to Janelle Mims, a New Yorker living in Hong Kong since early 2019. Dive straight in to find out why people are throwing babies at her and what is so problematic about the word "chocolate".
Be sure to subscribe and follow us on Instagram: @homegrownthepodcast. You can also email us at homegrownthepodcast@gmail.com.