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    The Unconventionals

    The Unconventionals Podcast captures real conversations with people who have made their way in life through non-traditional paths, risktakers who staked their future on self-determination and skill. In an exploration of a wide variety of unusual ventures and ‘off the cuff’ professions, the Hong Kong-based and Business developer, Javier Aguilar, meets with Entrepreneurs, Artists, expats and other inspiring people who have been making a name for themselves in Hong Kong, Asia, and around the globe. In each episode, Javier and his guests discuss the intricacies of their lifestyles, challenges and mindset, taking us on a journey through the steps that lead them to where they are today. A Podcast for anyone looking for inspiration and a life with purpose.
    en16 Episodes

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    Episodes (16)

    15 | Here to make a positive change | with entrepreneur James Yau

    15 | Here to make a positive change | with entrepreneur James Yau

    Welcome to our podcast episode with James Yau, where we explore innovative solutions for the agriculture industry. Our guest today is a seasoned management consultant with over 24 years of experience working in over 26 countries. He has worked with governments, private sector organizations, family offices, and multinational corporations such as Koch Industries, Bank of America, Cargill, Merck & Co., Tyson Foods, and Power Corporation of Canada.

     

    In the past decade, his company has successfully designed, operated, and managed 52 projects from concept to exit while consulting over 200 farms globally. By utilizing data, metrics, and precision farming technologies, they have helped bring these farms online and optimize their operations.

     

    As project manager, he oversaw daily operations of over 500 workers and assets under management worth over USD 500 million in start-up investments in the Asia Pacific region. They have also established B2B and B2C one-stop solutions delivering 65 million kg of exported goods annually for the past 9 years.

     

    Join us as we discuss the challenges that independent growers and family-owned farms face, why blockchain technology is the key to change, and how we can work together to create a better future for agriculture.

    14 | Women of Hong Kong | with founder Sarah Vee

    14 | Women of Hong Kong | with founder Sarah Vee

    Episode Summary

    Sarah Vee is the Founder of Women of Hong Kong, a digital platform that connects women with the common belief that we are stronger together, providing opportunities for women to collaborate and learn from each other’s mistakes and experiences.

    In the episode, Sarah talks about her journey, the challenges of building a community, personal growth, and much more.  

    Find out more at www.womenofhongkong.com and Instagram @womenof.hk

    #podcast #podcasting #theunconventionals #theuncomventionalspodcast #hongkong #stories #inspiration #goals #personalproject #mic #podcasts #podcasting #podcasted #spotify #coaching #womenofhk

    13 | Making people smile | with entrepreneur Benny Cullen

    13 | Making people smile | with entrepreneur Benny Cullen

    Benny Cullen is an entrepreneur based in Hong Kong.

    What characterizes Benny’s business projects is a clear goal: “Making people smile, making people happy.” He accomplishes this through sports and entertainment, TV & Radio, as a DJ and Podcast Host! 

    In the episode, we talk about his journey, the challenges to building different businesses, habits and routines for success, and much more. 

    If you want to know more about his journey, follow him on IG @bennyxcullen

    #podcast #podcasting #theunconventionals #theuncomventionalspodcast #hongkong #stories #inspiration #goals #personalproject #mic #podcasts #podcasting #podcasted #spotify #coaching

    12 | Creating your Dream Life | with Digital Nomad Jaime Pichardo

    12 | Creating your Dream Life | with Digital Nomad Jaime Pichardo

    Jaime is a Digital Nomad currently based out of Cyprus (for now).

    With a clear goal to living off his passions while having geographical independence, Jaime shares his story to becoming a Digital Nomad, living in multiple countries while working for different companies simultaneously. 

    In the episode, we talk about his journey, the challenges of a digital nomad, key habits, the road to financial freedom, and much more. 

    In you want to know more about his journey, follow him on Twitter @JaimePichardoG
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    #podcast #podcasting #theunconventionals #theuncomventionalspodcast #hongkong #stories #inspiration #goals #personalproject #mic #podcasts #podcasting #podcasted #spotify #coaching #self #radioshow #itunes

    The Unconventionals
    enNovember 25, 2022

    11 | Building community | with entrepreneur Stephen

    11 | Building community | with entrepreneur Stephen

    Stephen is the founder of "House Manifest", a residential accelerator for nomadic entrepreneurs.

    Currently based in Thailand, Stephen shares his entrepreneurial journey and how he is able to live off his passion, building a community of digital nomads.

    In the episode, we talk about his amazing project and the keys that allow him to get there. 


    In you want to know more about the project, follow them on IG house.manifest or visit www.housemanifest.co/season3

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    #podcast #podcasting #theunconventionals #theuncomventionalspodcast #hongkong #stories #inspiration #goals #personalproject #mic
    #podcasts #podcasting #podcasted #spotify #coaching #self #radioshow #itunes

    10 | Better in bed | with sex coach Sarasense

    10 | Better in bed | with sex coach Sarasense

    Sarasense is certified a sex coach and creator of the Podcast, Better in bed.

    Sara comes off more like a friend and less like some kind of Sexual Guru who is beyond your comprehension. That’s the way sex talk should be. One of her goals is to “make the world a more sex positive place”, where we can talk openly about our experiences. 

    In this episode we touch upon her life journey, sex education in Asia, common misconceptions, dating apps and much more. Enjoy

    Connect with us:

    IG: @theunconventionalspodcast

    @Javiag__

    About SaraSense:

    Instagram: @hellosarasense

    Websites: https://www.sarasense.com/links

    “Better in Bed” Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/1i8lBACDz5wY1sAdEdMusJ?si=dda694b81c1f4820

    Thanks!

    09 | The entrepreneurial spirit | with Mahesh Harilela

    09 | The entrepreneurial spirit | with Mahesh Harilela

    Our guest today embodies the entrepreneurial spirit, a creator of companies, a trader, a brand developer, a leading figure in renewable energy, agriculture and education, a Chairman, a CEO, a Board of Directors, and a Commercial Liaison this man has not only climbed the ladder multiple times, but he’s also created a few. 

    Throughout his professional career he’s created a string of successful start-ups ranging from selling branded electronics to supply chain management. 

    Most recently he’s gone into Sports Development, Education, Environmental and ESG investments and mastered them all. His achievements have taken him far and wide, but I was lucky to catch him here in Hong Kong. 

    In the episode, we talk about his entrepreneurial journey and much more. Enjoy!

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    Follow on IG: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    Thanks

    08 | The ultimate journey | with World Traveller Thor

    08 | The ultimate journey | with World Traveller Thor

    Thor is travelling to EVERY country in the world WITHOUT flying!

    Back in 2013, Thor decided to travel around the world and visit every single country without flying. A land and sea journey to a total of 203 countries, which was originally estimated to end in 2018, is now estimated to be completed in 2023.

    Thor has now visited 195 and is on his way to his 196th right now.

    In this episode, Thors shares many of his adventures during these years, as well as many of the challenges and wonders of the world.

    Along side, he has become a Motivational Speaker and he travels as a Red Cross Goodwill Ambassador. 

    Links
    IG  @onceuponasaga

    Websites:

    Thor’s blog: https://www.onceuponasaga.dk/about  

    Follow on IG: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    Thanks!

    07 | Redefining curiosity | with TEDx Speaker & Podcaster Lou

    07 | Redefining curiosity | with TEDx Speaker & Podcaster Lou

    Lou is the Co-host of "HomeGrown", a podcast about the Black experience in Hong Kong and Asia.

    Lou has been an inspiring influence for the Black community, especially in Asia. Her message about using communication to improve relations across cultures and races have helped many people get free of the stigma and stereotypes that have plagued them.

    Recently, her message led her to become a TEDx Speaker and discuss these same topics.

    In this episode, Lou shares her views on the Black community in Asia, as well as the her goals moving forward.

    Links
    IG @reallifewithlou

    IG @homegrownthepodcast

    Websites:

    HomeGrown Podcast: https://homegrownthepodcast.com/

    Lou’s blog: https://reallifewithlou.com/

    Follow on IG: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    Thanks!

    The Unconventionals
    enJanuary 12, 2022

    06 | Cooking your Passion | with Entrepreneur Manu Lee

    06 | Cooking your Passion | with Entrepreneur Manu Lee

    Summary

    Manu Lee is an entrepreneur and founder of Burger Joys & Lucky Smash.

    Having spent almost a decade in the United States, Manu came home to Hong Kong with the same craving for burgers he had in LA. Unsatisfied with Hong Kong’s options, he decided to create his own burger with the flavours that the city desperately deserved. 

    In this episode, we talk about entrepreneurship, life choices, and the need to pursue your passion.

    Links
    IG @burgerjoys

    IG @manulee

    Follow on IG: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    Thanks!

    05 | Harness the Power of your Breath | with Psychologist Astrid Merkt

    05 | Harness the Power of your Breath | with Psychologist Astrid Merkt

    Summary

    Astrid Merkt is a Holistic Performance Psychologist & Breathing Specialist based in Hong Kong.  

    With her experience in psychology and her background in yoga and sports, Astrid explains how breath can be your superpower to access and elevate your mental and physical states and improve performance.

    In this episode, we talk about the relationship between breathing, mental health, and her mission to empower and inspire people, helping them to unleash their full potential spiritually, mentally, and physically.

    Links

    Astrid Merkt
    https://linktr.ee/StridsInspire
    IG @thebreathadvantage

    IG @stridsinspire

    Follow on IG: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    Thanks!

    04 | Walk the talk | with Podcaster and Mindset coach Özlem Özkan

    04 | Walk the talk | with Podcaster and Mindset coach Özlem Özkan

    Summary

    Özlem Özkan is a Mindset coach, host of the “Bridging” podcast and author of the book “The Student”. 

    After living in different countries, transitioning from teaching to the corporate world and now making a name for herself as a podcaster and entrepreneur, she definitely knows how to bring something good to a conversation.

    In the episode, we talk about self-limiting beliefs and how to fight them, entrepreneurship, mental toughness, the power of taking action today and much more. 

    Links

    Özlem Özkan
    www.ozkanozlem.com
    IG @ozkanozlem

    Listen to episode with GAV THOMPSON #33 Bridging Podcast
    Check out her book on Amazon The Student
    Read my blog for a daily dose of new insights Özlem’s Blog

    Follow on IG: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    https://www.instagram.com/theunconventionalspodcast/

    https://www.instagram.com/javiag__/ 

    Thanks!

    03 | Practice makes perfect | with Dating Coach Christian Jørgensen

    03 | Practice makes perfect | with Dating Coach Christian Jørgensen

    Christian Jørgensen is a lifestyle and dating coach, whose goal is to transform his clients into the best version of themselves, shaping their perception to achieve their life goals and attracting to the opposite sex.  

    Located in Denmark, Christian has recently become one of the leading references in the field of lifestyle and dating coaching in his country.  

    In the episode, we talk about his upbringing, challenges with his transition into the entrepreneurial world and his passion for teaching the art of seduction.

    Links

    Follow us on IG: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    https://www.instagram.com/theunconventionalspodcast/

    https://www.instagram.com/javiag__/ 

    Check out Christian’s IG: 

    https://www.instagram.com/christianjqrgensen/

    Thanks!

    02 | Lessons of a Buddhist monk | with Professor Thomas Patton

    02 | Lessons of a Buddhist monk  | with Professor Thomas Patton

    Summary

    Cornell and Harvard graduate Dr. Thomas Patton is a Professor of Religious Studies at the City University of Hong Kong.

    His love of researching about religions led him to become a Buddhist monk in Myanmar where he lived in a Temple, and spent much of his time meditating and traveling the country seeking out Buddhist wizards.

    In this episode, we talk about his experiences and the things he learnt as a Buddhist monk, the influence of religion in wider society, and so much more.

    He is also the author of the book “The Buddha's Wizards”  available on Amazon.

    Links

    Follow us on IG: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    https://www.instagram.com/theunconventionalspodcast/

    https://www.instagram.com/javiag__/ 

    Link to “The Buddha's Wizards” book in Amazon: 

    https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Thomas-Nathan-Patton/dp/0231187610/ref=sr_1_1?__mk_es_US=ÅMÅŽÕÑ&dchild=1&keywords=The+Buddha%27s+Wizards%3A+Magic%2C+Protection%2C+and+Healing+in+Burmese+Buddhism&qid=1621779922&sr=8-1 

    01 | Follow your dream | with Football Freestyler Pedro de Oliveira

    01 | Follow your dream | with Football Freestyler Pedro de Oliveira

    Summary

    The World champion football freestyler and member of Cirque du Soleil Pedro de Oliveira shares his life story that led him to master the art of football freestyle, until becoming a reference in the sport.

    Pedro tells us about his beginnings in Brazil, competing around the world, all the way to moving to Hong Kong where he started by making a living performing in the streets of the city. 

    His determination would result in an offer of a lifetime, a starring role in Cirque du Soleil where he’s part of a show called “Messi10”.

    In the episode, we talk about goals, life lessons, discipline and much more. 

    Links

    Follow Pedro on IG:  https://www.instagram.com/pedroliveirafs/ 

    Check out one of his performances: 

    https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=o5eyXyNXJUs&ab_channel=CirqueduSoleil

    Follow on IG: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    https://www.instagram.com/theunconventionalspodcast/

    https://www.instagram.com/javiag__/ 

    Thanks!

    Trailer - The Unconventionals

    Trailer - The Unconventionals

    The Unconventionals Podcast captures real conversations with people who have made their way in life through non-traditional paths, risktakers who staked their future on self-determination and skill.

    In an exploration of a wide variety of unusual ventures and ‘off the cuff’ professions, the Hong Kong-based and Business developer, Javier Aguilar, meets with Entrepreneurs, Artists, expats and other inspiring people who have been making a name for themselves in Hong Kong, Asia, and around the globe.

    In each episode, Javier and his guests discuss the intricacies of their lifestyles, challenges and mindset, taking us on a journey through the steps that lead them to where they are today.

    A Podcast for anyone looking for inspiration to create your own unconventional journey.

    Follow me on: @TheUnconventionalspodcast & @javiag__  

    https://www.instagram.com/theunconventionalspodcast/

    https://www.instagram.com/javiag__/ 

    Thank you.