A Filipino-American memoir, one episode at a time
Stories about pasalubong, Tagalog words my kids mangle, kain tayo and the tradition of always inviting people to eat, the Ber-month Christmas season, Filipino Time, and a handful of things I only realized I missed once I'd been away from the Philippines for years.
The archive
Newest first. Each one is a short, warm, bilingual conversation about one thing that felt worth recording.
More Than Just Souvenirs — The Filipino Gift-Giving Tradition
This episode is my Pasalubong to you! Learn about the Filipino tradition of bringing gifts home after being away – why it means more than just a souvenir. Plus, my all-time favorites: dried pusit and kasoy from Palawan!
Back After a Year + We Bought a House!
Guess who's back? After over a year away, this "Anong Balita?" (What's Up?) episode catches you up. The biggest news? My wife and I bought our first house! So happy to be recording again.
Filipino Monsters (Manananggal, Kapre) & Ghosts
"Takot Ako!" (I'm Scared!). Just in time for Halloween, Charles returns to discuss spooky Filipino folklore – Manananggal, Kapre, White Lady, and the Mumo used to scare kids! Learn why Halloween isn't the main event in the Philippines.
The Early Filipino Christmas Season (Starts in September!)
Ever heard of the "Ber Months"? Discover why the Christmas season starts in September for Filipinos! I explore this unique tradition, the iconic Parol lanterns, and how it compares to the US holiday buildup. It's Christmas time... already!
Movie Experiences — Philippines vs US Theaters
It's the first day of preschool for my youngest! Sharing my dad-nerves and the Filipino "Puyo" (cowlick) theory. Also starting a comparison of movie experiences: Philippines vs. US, kicking off with AMC Dine-In. Let's watch ("Manood Tayo")!
My Filipino-American Experiences with LGBT Friends & Culture
It's Pride Month! In this episode, "Bahaghari" (Rainbow), I share my personal Filipino American experiences and stories involving LGBT friends, family, cultural attitudes, and terminology like Bakla and Tibo, aiming for understanding, not judgment.
Close Open, Penpen de Sarapen, Sawsaw Suka & More
Time for some nostalgia! My cousin Jake joins me to talk about Filipino Baby Games (Sangol Games) like Close Open, Penpen de Sarapen, Sawsaw Suka, It Bulaga, and more. Relive these fun childhood interactions and songs!
Visita Iglesia, Sabado de Gloria & More Filipino Easter Traditions
Happy Easter! This episode dives into Filipino Holy Week (Semana Santa) traditions. Discover Visita Iglesia (church visits), unique Sabado de Gloria rituals like Pagpuputol (circumcision), and the Easter Salubong procession, distinct from Western customs.
More Filipino Food Habits — Rice, Salo-Salo & Paying the "Cheat"
Continuing our dive into Filipino food culture! In "Kain Tayo Part 2," I cover the journey of rice (Palay, Bigas, Kanin), the joy of Salo-Salo sharing, sweet desserts, and the unique hand gesture we use to ask for the check (the "Cheat")!
Funny Filipino Stories (Maybe TMI?)
This episode tackles "Bawal Umihi Dito" (No Peeing Here!) signs common in the Philippines. I share why they exist and three personal, funny (possibly TMI!) stories involving potty emergencies from grade school to college nights out. Listener discretion advised? Maybe!
Why Filipinos Always Invite You to Eat
"Kain Tayo!" (Let's Eat!) Why do Filipinos always invite you to share their meal? In this episode, I explore the cultural meaning behind this common invitation, the importance of eating together, and how it reflects Filipino hospitality and community.
Excuses, Stereotypes & Being Late
Ever heard of "Filipino Time"? It's the infamous stereotype about Filipinos always being late. In this episode, I explore why it exists, share my own (sometimes flimsy) excuses, and tell a couple of funny stories about navigating punctuality in our culture.
Understanding the Filipino Gesture of Respect
What is "Mano Po"? In this episode, I dive deep into this beautiful Filipino gesture of showing respect to elders – its meaning, how it's done, and my own journey with practicing it. Let's keep this important cultural tradition alive!
Crazy Philippines Pickup Basketball Rules ft. Charles
Joined by my friend Charles, we dive into "Kabisadong Ring" – the unique world of Philippines pickup basketball. Mandatory betting? Barefoot players? Lopsided rims? It's a totally different game over there! Hear our comparison and experiences.
The Funny and Frustrating Things My Kids Inherited from Me
My kid’s a smartass… just like I was. 😅 In this episode, I share hilarious (and weirdly familiar) behavior I see in my kids—and how it might just be karma. #Parenting #Pilosopo #DadLife
My Story, My Roots, My Why
My Story, My Roots, My Why