Fueling Cultural Curiosity: Travels with Rhythm & Roam

Fueling Cultural Curiosity: Travels with Rhythm & Roam

October 15, 2025Posted inEpisodesNo Comments
Paul Island and Benef Verell, from the podcast Rhythm & Roam, share their stories of “traveling while Black and biracial.” From the streets of Paris and Estonia to Dublin to Korea and Japan, Paul and Benef recall their encounters with stereotypes and the cultural eye-openers they’ve confronted while traveling and living abroad. All shared with humor and grace, it’s a laughter-filled conversation that holds a mirror to our own cultural perceptions.
From Vietnam to New York: Tommy Ngo’s Inspiring Journey Through Music, Fashion and Identity

From Vietnam to New York: Tommy Ngo’s Inspiring Journey Through Music, Fashion and Identity

July 8, 2023Posted inEpisodes
Join me as we embark on a fascinating journey with my guest, Tommy Ngo, also known as Hai Ngo. Tommy, a native of Vietnam, shares his remarkable life story, from his early love for music and art, to his family's struggle during the Vietnam War and his eventual move to New York. Listen in as he recounts how his singing talent was discovered, his experience performing opera in small towns throughout Vietnam, and the effects of the Communist takeover on his family. Tommy also discloses the challenges he faced on his journey to the U.S. and his fruitful career in the high-end fashion industry, where he met his life partner at the Metropolitan Opera. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to create a gallery and luxury nail salon in Hudson, New York.