Made in Hong Kong
By Made In Hong Kong
Made in Hong KongJun 17, 2022
Why are Asians so Obsessed with Luxury Brands?
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer do a deep dive into why Asians, specifically people from Hong Kong China, love luxury brands so much.
They discuss the historical and cultural influences of luxury brands, Asia's fixation on competitiveness and status, how social media has impacted the popularity of luxury, and even their own observations and personal experiences with luxury brands!
Episode 48: Have you Heard of HK's Controversial Celebrity, Ah Yi (薛影儀)?
Episode 47: The Forgotten Lives of Elderly in Hong Kong
Episode 46: Demanding Justice for Hong Kong Street Hawkers
You can check out this article about 90-year-old street hawker, Chan, that we mentioned in the podcast, here: www.scmp.com/news/hong-kong/law-and-crime/article/3212580/i-beg-you-give-me-chance-distraught-90-year-old-hawker-pleads-hong-kong-police-after-chestnut
Read more about the "Fishball Revolution" and other protests post-handover here: time.com/5606212/hong-kong-history-mass-demonstrations-protest/
Episode 45: Fighting for Trans Rights in Hong Kong 🏳️⚧️ w/ Saxon Chung
This court case sparked Chrystal and Summer to talk about the transgender community in Hong Kong. In this episode, they discuss the tedious and unjust process for people to get sex reassignment surgery, the barriers and discrimination trans people face daily, and the heartbreaking implications trans people have to face. They also have a special guest, Saxon Chung come on to talk about his experience.
Episode 44: My American Boyfriend's first time in Hong Kong!!!
In this episode, Chrystal's partner, George, joins her and Summer in sharing their experiences and first visit to Hong Kong! Tune in to hear about first impressions of the city, them first-hand experiencing 'Kong girls', meeting the parentals, the amazing food, culture shock, and so much more! We miss you already, Hong Kong.🫶🏼
P.S Sorry for some of the poor audio on Chrystal's part - we were sharing a mic between two people!
Episode 43: Overworking & Hong Kong's Toxic Work Culture
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer discuss Hong Kong's toxic work culture! We talk about our own work experiences, the ideologies that shape this work culture, and traits that hence stem from these ideologies.
Episode 42: Exposing our Younger Selves & Life Update!
We're Back! We've missed you all and recording together :)
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer give you some life updates and reminisce on their time in Primary and Secondary School. They expose some of their rebellious moments and all the trouble they got up to in school!
P.S We will be uploading once a month from now on. Thank you for being patient with us!
Episode 41: Hong Kong's Iconic Drag Queens!
Episode 40: The Struggles of LGBTQ+ Representation in Hong Kong
Episode 39: An Angry Rant about Brown-facing in HK Television
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer bring up the controversy that happened a few weeks ago, where a Chinese-Canadian actress was seen putting on brown makeup to portray a Filipina Domestic Worker in a TVB show. They discuss why this is problematic, the importance of representation, racism towards South East Asians, and frankly, how insensitive and disrespectful this show is.
Please consider singing this petition to hold TVB accountable: www.chng.it/t6jmvmnrkf
SPECIAL EPISODE: Therapy Session w/ Chrystal & Summer
Episode 38: The Truth About "Kong Girls (港女)"
Episode 37: What Dating is Really like in Hong Kong
Part 2 of Hong Kong dating culture will be out soon!
Episode 36: Turning Red – Is Filial Piety Toxic?
Episode 35: Mr Hong Kong Contest – Double Standards when Sexualising Men?
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer talk about the Mr Hong Kong Contest, a male beauty pageant competition. They discuss the nature of objectifying male contestants, and compares it to the Miss Hong Kong Beauty Pageant, and compares and contrasts the differences & similarities between the 2. They discuss broader topics like the influence Western cultures have on beauty standards and the problematic notion of Wasian (White + Asian) people as the definition of "beauty".
Episode 34: Hong Kong Beauty Pageants... More Harm than Good?
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer discuss the history, process and implications of the Ms Hong Kong Beauty Pageant. They dissect the problematic recruitment and judging process, and the inevitable nature of sexualising female contestants. They also touch upon Hong Kong's gossip culture and how different factors of their lives, from their parents, friends and media contributed to how they see "beauty". All in all, they reflect on the negative impact that these shows have on Hong Kong society's definition of "beauty" and how the greater system further reinforces these toxic beauty standards.
Episode 33: A Deep Dive into Hong Kong's Star-Making Reality Shows
With the rise of Hong Kong's Star-Making Reality Talent Competitions producing a plethora of new faces in Hong Kong's entertainment industry, Chrystal and Summer do a deep-dive into why these shows are so popular and how they work. In this episode, they talk about the history of these shows, its evolution, social implications on Hong Kong society, and its impact on beauty standards and more! They discuss some of Hong Kong's most popular celebrities and the goods and bads of this Talent Show to Celebrity pipeline.
Episode 32: Here's what you need to know about Hong Kong's Newest Boyband – Mirror
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer do a deep dive into Hong Kong's newest boyband – Mirror. They discuss their first impressions and breakdown why Mirror's rise to fame was so fast and how they became Hong Kong's most popular celebrities. They also reflect on what Mirror means to Hong Kong and how its formation came at the perfect time during COVID19 and political unrest.
Episode 31: How the F*ck is it 2022?
HAPPY NEW YEAR EVERYONE!♥️ How the f*ck is it 2022?😭
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer recap their 2021, from their highest highs to their lowest lows. They reflect on their most memorable and hardest moments of 2021, and talk about what they're looking forward to next year.
P.S Our episode uploads will now be biweekly instead of every week!
BONUS EPISODE: Almost Getting Arrested, Catching a Thief & Christmas Plans
We hope you all have a wonderful holiday season and we'll be back soon for Season 4!
Episode 30: Too American for Hong Kong, too Chinese for America
Episode 29: 5 SPOOPY Hong Kong Urban Legends
Episode 28: Moving to the U.S was not what we Thought It'd Be
Episode 27: Shang Chi and the Legend of the Hong Kong Actors
This episode is all about Shang Chi and the Hong Kong influence it has, from actors, to the crew, to the stunt directing! Chrystal and Summer spill the tea on all things Shang Chi, from what they loved, plot holes, Asian representation, their honest thoughts and more – they did NOT hold back! They also discuss iconic actors Tony Leung, Fala Chen and Yuen Wah, and what they remember of them growing up in Hong Kong. Finally, they discuss the importance of representation in Hollywood and what this movie means to them. Go watch Shang Chi in theatres if you haven't already (if you can do so safely of course)!!!
Episode 26: Turning Bitterness for his own Culture into his Passion w/ Raymond Kam (@daddydumpling)
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer chat to Raymond about his experience moving to the 626 Area in LA from Hong Kong when he was 6. He talks about how he felt ashamed to be Asian growing up and instances of microaggressions he's experienced. They talk about how he got into social media and started creating content, how that has affected his Asian American identity, which ultimately led to him find himself, discover his creative passions and explore life outside STEM.
You can follow Raymond here! Instagram: @daddydumpling TikTok: daddydumpling
Episode 25: The Chinese vs U.S Battle – Holidays Edition
Episode 24: Is TikTok Perpetuating Asian Stereotypes? w/ Khyli
You can find Khyli here!
Instagram: k.hyli (https://www.instagram.com/k.hyli/)
Twitch: hellokhyli (https://www.twitch.tv/hellokhyli/videos)
TikTok: @k.hyli (https://www.tiktok.com/@k.hyli?lang=en)
Episode 23: How Gen Z is Redefining Asian(American)-ness w/ Voice to Culture
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer talk to 4 amazing humans from Voice to Culture Podcast – Kelly, Carolyn, Michelle and Amy. They talk about their experience growing up in the Bay, we discuss the model minority myth, how to talk to our Asian parents when it comes to social justice and breaking stereotypes, and finally, how to stay politically active in and out of college. Thank you for sharing your amazing insights with us VTC!💜
We also filmed a collab episode on their podcast as well! Check them out down below:
VTC's Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5thfl3U0YMg4WiAiePpX3s?si=8wSl1EISSqqLRv4qgZl8YA&dl_branch=1
VTC's Instagram: @voicetocuture
Episode 22: Not Your Typical Asian Mom w/ Joan (@momwack)
In this episode, Chrystal and Summer talk to Joan about her growing up in Vancouver, BC, how she was raised by her immigrant parents, her approach to parenting, her relationship with her husband and how she wants to preserve and pass on her Chinese culture to the next generation. Tune in to hear her share her experience and daily dose of wholesomeness!
Joan also shares her journey on infertility to IVF and now life with her son, Liam on Instagram! If you're interested, you can find her at @momwack!
Episode 21: Talking Sh*t About Our Boyfriends
Episode 20: Education Disparity and Toxic Tutoring w/ Inquisitive Minds
In this episode, we have Querida and Zabrina, two rising year-12 students from Chinese International School, here to talk to us about their organisation Inquisitive Minds. They offer summer programs and online tutoring for underprivileged kids in Hong Kong. They tell us about Inquisitive Minds, we discuss education disparity, as well as the toxicity that comes with tutoring and the rigid public school system.
You can find Inquisitive Minds on Instagram @inquisitivemindshk. Please reach out to them if you're interested in volunteering and supporting them!
Episode 19: From Internalising Racism to Embracing His Identity w/ Kevin Chang
We have our friend Kevin Chang on this episode to talk about growing up in majority-White Sacramento, internalising racism, giving into stereotypes, and embracing his Asian American identity in college. We also touch upon the good and bad of cultural clubs, executive board experiences, trauma bonding, ABG/ ABBs, beauty standards, microaggressions etc.
Episode 18: The History and Dark Side of SF Chinatown
In this episode we delve deep into the history, development, hidden secrets, and dark side of San Francisco Chinatown. We also talk about why Chinatowns are significant to us!
Episode 17: Debunking Colourism & the Indian American Experience w/ Ayush Narayan
In this episode, we have Ayush here to talk about his experience growing up as an Indian American in the Bay Area! We discuss the importance of colourism, Ayush's personal experiences with it, microaggressions, the model minority myth, and how all this has impacted Ayush's life.
Episode 16: The Rise and Fall of CantoPop
This episode is all about Cantonese Pop Music! In this episode, Chrystal and Summer talk about the origins of CantoPop, the iconic Golden Age, and the decline of the Pop industry in Hong Kong. They reminisce on what CantoPop means to them and its significance to Hong Kong. Also, different snippets songs from each era are scattered throughout the episode!
P.S We created a separate playlist that includes all the CantoPop we listened to growing up. You can find it here, ENJOY: https://open.spotify.com/playlist/5o3CbsVlGVlIpOCho42vuh?si=785a8462f8354f70
Episode 15: California is Reopening and We're Scared
Ahhhh, California is reopening and masks are no longer required for those who are fully vaccinated!!! In this episode, Chrystal and Summer talk about COVID19, how the U.S and Hong Kong has handled it, Chrystal's experience flying during a pandemic, anti-maskers, anti-vaxxers, and vaccine hesitancy. With the new Delta strain, let's all wear masks to protect those who can't get vaccinated. Stay safe everyone!
Episode 14: Our Experience with Toxic Masculinity & Gender Roles
Happy (belated) Father's Day! This episode is all about fatherhood, paternal love, and (toxic) masculinity. Chrystal and Summer reflect on their relationship with their dad, toxic masculinity, and gender roles in East Asia.
Episode 13: Being a Creative and Asian Shame w/ Justin Tang
"You're only successful if you're a lawyer, doctor, or in business". In this episode, we have our good friend Justin, a creative, who is working in the film industry on the podcast. Justin talks about his experience going into film, and discuss with Chrystal and Summer the social pressures that come along with choosing a creative industry.
Episode 12: Let's Talk About Mental Health w/ Irene Chon
We have a special guest this episode – Irene! She is a self-empowerment coach based in the Bay Area, and shared amazing insight on mental health, especially on transgenerational trauma, beauty standards, and conversations surrounding being first generation Asian American.
Episode 11: Red Flag or Dealbreaker?
Welcome to Season 2! In this SPICY episode, Chrystal and Summer talk about their past dating history, experiences, how they navigated through them and how they've grown. They also play a game of red flag or dealbreaker, so follow along! Some piping-hot tea will be spilled!
Episode 10: Things No One Tells You About Living in New York City w/ Melody Lam
We have Chrystal's friend, Melody, here with us this episode to talk about her experience living in New York City! Like us, Melody was also born and raised in Hong Kong and we discuss the reality of living both in NYC and California. She talks about her moving experience, East Coast culture, the city-life, and what is really is like to be a New Yorker.
Episode 9: We Graduated... Now What?
WE GRADUATED (Summer from undergrad and Chrystal from grad school)!!! 🍾 Congratulations to the Class of 2021! In this episode, we talk about our feelings about graduation, Chrystal reflects on her post-grad life, and where we are going to go from here.
Episode 8: Debunking HK International School Myths w/ Jane Chow
In this episode, we have our good friend Jane to talk to us about what it really is like going through the Hong Kong international school system! She debunks some myths and stereotypes that Chrystal and Summer have. We talk about the local vs international school tension, hierarchy within the international schools, and what it means to be a Hong Konger.
Episode 7: Are All Asian Parents "Tiger Parents"?
In this episode, we talk about "Tiger Parents"! We discuss what kind of parenting styles we were brought up in, how that has affected us, and how our relationship with our parents changed and evolved over the years. We also reflect on whether we would raise our own kids the same way our parents did. And finally, we answer the question of whether all Asian parents are "Tiger Parents".
Episode 6: Lights, Camera, Asian American w/ Pineapple Headache
This week we have two of our friends, Christienne and Madison, from their own podcast Pineapple Headache to talk with us about their experience as BIPOC women in film school, the larger white-dominated entertainment industry, as well as Asian American representation in film. Tune in to hear us discuss, share thoughts and spill the tea on how we actually feel about Asian American representation.
Episode 5: Our Ultimate Guide to Chinese Superstitions
Have you ever wondered why there are so many superstitions woven into Chinese culture and life? In this episode, we talk about different Chinese superstitions that we grew up with. We share funny childhood and family stories, and dig deep into why so many people around us are superstitious.
Episode 4: Is HK Schooling really that Vigorous?
In this episode, we talk about our experiences within the Hong Kong education system, and the good and the bad that comes along with it. We *attempt* to explain how the system works and how it differs from the U.S. Follow along as we share our stories and challenges, and see for yourself if Hong Kong schooling is really THAT vigorous.
Episode 3: Our Hong Kong Favourites!
In this episode, we reminisce on some of our favourite memories, and discuss our most-loved food, places, music, TV shows and more whilst growing up in Hong Kong.
But to be honest, this episode is just Summer and Chrystal trying to translate Cantonese words and phrases into English.
Episode 2: Atlanta Shooting – An Honest Conversation
As I'm sure everyone has heard, the Atlanta Shooting that happened on March 16th has further shaken up the AAPI Community in America, adding on to the already-existing hostility and racism towards the AAPI community during COVID19. In this episode, we talk through this tragic incident, our thoughts, feelings, racism towards Chinese Americans, as well as resources and steps that we can take to educate ourselves and others. To our fellow AAPI community, we love you, we feel you, and please take care.♡