Hong Kong Confidential

Mikhail Tomosov is the head of the LGBTQIA+ Network in Russia and he was in Hong Kong as a guest of the Human Dignity Festival, organised by Planet Ally. Mikhail talks to us about growing up in Russia without any sex education or gay role models in the media, and how difficult that was for him as a gay teen. He shares his parents unspoken acceptance of his sexuality and the love and support he and his partner have from them. Unfortunately, repression and victimisation are prolific, and Mikhail has faced discrimination in Russia, once being fired from his job for being gay and an activist. Mikhail explains the important work that he is doing in Russia as a human rights activist, including saving the lives of gay men in Chechnya where mass detentions, torture and murders of homosexuals occur. Mikhail states that he is fighting for the rights of people to live a “normal life” in Russia and he hopes that he will see changes to attitudes and laws in his country in his life time. Mikhail is role model a

Jules talks to Dr Anastasia Belkova about the amazing projects that she has been running in Hong Kong. She discusses Goodin.HK and how she helps people find what they need to be happy. Wake Up and Roar, where she creates workshops and events to help people find their inner happiness and peace. She explores issues such as heartbreak, meditation, yoga, tantra, innocent addictions, dealing with a crisis and sexual shame. Anastasia chats to us about spiritual shopping and how we can bypass the practices that will really work for us and the way that our constant need for productivity can affect our wellbeing. We explore how childhood behaviours can reinforce who we are today, and she asks the question “what part of ourselves are we denying” by continuing these behaviours into adulthood? Anastasia explains how the things that trigger us are actually a reflection of ourselves and she then goes on to discuss her PHD in Narcissism and the characteristics of a Narcissist. We learn some practical tools to de

Australian Psychologist and author, Dr. Michael Carr-Gregg is an eminent resource for teenagers and their parents, and has fascinating insights on the lives and workings of adolescent minds that comes from decades of research and practice. He is prolific in the field of adolescent psychology, and has written books, writes articles and speaks around the world on topics of parenting, technology and mental health, adolescent development and adolescent suicide. He offers some useful tips for parents, based on the recognition of the additional challenges that come with parenting in this fast-paced technological era. He discusses how teenagers are the most vulnerable generation of young people to date and parents and teachers need to be on their game. Dr. Carr-Gregg talks about the risk factors and protective factors in relation to teen mental health and the evidence that this generation struggles to cope with stress. Contrary to some in the field, Dr. Carr-Gregg is optimistic about the space technology occupies in

'India by the Bay' is a Festival of India in Hong Kong from the 2nd to the 9th of February 2018. Jules chats to the organisers of this festival, Lakshmi Laroia and Sonali Laul and they share their excitement about 'India by the Bay', which encompasses music, dance, film, literature, theatre, art, food, Family Day and much more. It is a celebration of the vast and varied diverse cultures of India with a focus on the arts, food and family. There is a combination of traditional and cutting edge contemporary Indian performances throughout the festival, with a Gala Dinner celebrating the opening of the festival, led by a young, female celebrity chef cooking delicious Parsi food. One of the many highlights of the event is a Family Day with numerous performances and creative workshops for everyone in Hong Kong to enjoy. There are many famous and accomplished Indian celebrities participating in the events and there is something for everyone to enjoy. Lakshmi and Sonali share their personal experiences with working wi

Kay Ross discusses her "Playground of Possibilities" card deck and how we can use the cards to observe the limiting thoughts, beliefs and stories that we have going on in our heads and how we can break these old patterns by choosing new stories and approaches. She discusses the value of improvisation in our lives and how it enhances team work, leadership skills and creativity. Improvisation skills can assist us to have nimble responsiveness to change and cope with the unexpected. Kay encourages us to listen to the wisdom of our bodies and how her healing body work can develop the mind, body and spirit connection. Kay believes that our bodies give away our secrets and she has a secret that she shares with us. She has a #metoo story and she candidly shares this experience with us, explaining the sexual abuse that she suffered from when she was a child. Kay recognises how much the healing work that she has done over many years has helped to heal her and propel her into the positive place that she is in today. A

Henrik Hoeg talks to us about his love of poetry and his passion for Peel Street Poetry open mic events, where he not only reads poems but also is the MC. Over the past eleven years, Peel Street Poetry has evolved into a group of international poets from all walks of life, who write and read poetry at the open mic sessions in Hong Kong. Henrik shares how his interest in poetry began in high school with passionate teachers who inspired him with their creative teaching methods. We explore how poetry can change lives and how joining the poetry readings can break through barriers and develop a person’s self-confidence and public speaking skills. The power of the written word can impact change and inspire people to delve further into the world of poetry. We discuss Henrik’s book "Irreverent Poems for Pretentious People" and he reads us two wonderful poems from his collection during the podcast. Henrik explains how writing poetry in other people’s voices can expand your perspective on life and the

Ariadna Peretz, a matchmaker from Maitre D’ate, talks to us about the difficulties of dating in Hong Kong. She gives advice on deal breakers in relationships and why we might need to rethink them. Ariadna discusses coping with rejection, flirting skills, icebreakers for first dates and why ghosting is a no no…….mostly. She explains her role as a matchmaker and how matchmaking can work for many people. We explore how the landscape of dating has evolved since the creation of smart phones and dating apps. Ariadna also kindly rates all of Jules’ Tinder photos and gives her some personal dating tips that she can take away with her from this informative and hilarious discussion. For any singles out there, this podcast is not to be missed.  Maitre D’ate: http://maitredate.com/ Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twi

Preeti Sharma grew up in India and when her father died, she found herself on the streets with her mother and four siblings. Preeti had to do her homework under the street lights and this is when she developed her love of studying. Eventually, she left India for Hong Kong where she met her husband. She had two children but things began to go awry and she found herself facing life as a single mother. She shares her struggles with mental health issues and the pressures of being a single mum without family support. Preeti explains how she has triumphed through these challenges and how she is now dealing with her children leaving home to go to university. She explores her own bucket list as her children prepare to fly the nest. Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongkongconfidential/ S

Matt Friedman from the Mekong Club talks about his important role in combating human trafficking and modern day slavery. He explains the differences between sex slavery and slave labour and talks in depth about this epidemic that is on the increase globally. He shares his own family's experience with human trafficking and how this impacted him as a young boy. He reveals many shocking stories from his experiences working with NGOs in India, Nepal, Thailand, USA and Hong Kong. He shares personal stories of some of the victims that he has worked with and the shame associated with being forced into sex slavery. Matt advises how we can become responsible tourists and make a difference. He gives us several suggestions as to how we can also help the fight against modern day slavery. A listener note: Some people might find a number of the issues discussed in this podcast distressing. If you have any concerns about Human Trafficking or want to get involved in fighting modern day slavery, please contact the Mekong Club

Kamoga Hassan is the founder of the Queer Kampala International Film Festival (QUEERKIFF), the first and only LGBTIQ festival in Uganda, where homosexuality is illegal. Kamoga is a human rights activist and he is passionate about making a difference in a country where people can be driven out of their homes, arrested or even killed for their sexuality. Kamoga talks about his life as a gay man in Uganda and the way that he uses film to tackle social justice issues and raise awareness in the hope of changing hearts, minds and laws in his home country. He talks about how unique the film festival is and the extra security measures required to run this underground festival in Uganda. Kamoga also shares some personal stories about his life in a country where being gay is not accepted. QUEERKIFF runs from the 8th to the 10th of December, 2017 with over 30 LGBTIQ themed films screening this year. Find out more at http://www.queerkiff.com/home/ Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network:

Robert discusses growing up in South Africa and coming to terms with his sexuality as an adult in Hong Kong. He shares his coming out story and the reactions of his family to this news. Robert is now happily married and a father of a two year old boy, which is one of the greatest joys in his life. He reveals the challenges that he and his husband face as a gay couple with a son living in Hong Kong and also the many positive aspects of his life. We also explore ways to support young people who may be questioning their gender or sexuality. Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongkongconfidential/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube and anywhere you find your podcasts.    Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hongkongconfidential?alert=2See omnystudio.

Jane discusses her experiences with domestic violence as a self confessed serial dater in her younger years. She talks about the social isolation from family and friends, the abuse, manipulation, power and control she suffered through at the hands of her two consecutive partners. She was dazzled by the money and high life the men offered her in Hong Kong and found herself in abusive relationships, where she could not break free. Jules also discusses her own personal experiences in her 20's. Both women, who see themselves as survivors, talk about red flags, trusting their instincts and dangerous patterns of behaviour. A listener note: This podcast may be distressing to some people as the topic of intimate partner violence is discussed. There is also some swearing. Samaritans Hong Kong: 28960000  Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com

Jane Engelmann talks to us about how she formed a choir comprised of women domestic helpers in Hong Kong, The Unsung Heroes. She gives us an insight into the lives of these women and some of the many sacrifices they have made to work as foreign domestic helpers in Hong Kong. Many of the women have left friends and family behind in their home countries to work 12 hours a day, 6 days a week to support their families. We learn about the creation of their signature song "I Wish I Could Kiss You Goodnight", dedicated to the children that they have left behind. Jane talks about the Unsung Heroes' role in the new documentary film, "The Helper" which gives a voice to Hong Kong's domestic workers and the positive impact that both the film and the choir have made in the lives of these amazing women. A note, dear listener, that parts of this podcast may be distressing for some - abuse is discussed at one point. However, I give you a warning just before this section if you should choose to skip it. Please stay tuned at t

Neerja Sujanani and Deepa Nainani from Plus Group International talk to us about how they started out in business, their secrets to success and give advice to people who are just venturing into the business world. Both women give us an insight into their family culture and traditions and how that impacted their lives and the expectations of them when they were young. Its inspiring to hear about their passion for business, their incredible accomplishments whilst they discuss the challenges that they, as women, have faced in the business world in Hong Kong. This is an incredibly interesting and informative podcast full of generous sharing of wisdom and many laughs along the way. Contact Plus Group International on their webpage http://www.printplus.com.hk/ Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.insta

Alison Oliver from Integrate Hong Kong talks about her work as a counsellor. She explores the concepts of giving space, building resilience and wellbeing. She advises us how we can help young people who are struggling and ways to initiate conversations. She describes the role social media plays in mental health issues and importance of growing a positive mind set and how to go about that. http://www.integratehk.hk/our-team/ Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongkongconfidential/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube and anywhere you find your podcasts.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hongkongconfidential?alert=2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Karina Calver describes her troubled childhood as the daughter of Sindhi parents in Hong Kong. She explores the repeated trauma of a father who over stepped the boundaries and a mother who chose not to see. She had to internalize and normalize what happened to her to enable her to function in the family and find her way in life. This is her story. A listener note: This podcast may be distressing to some people as the topic of incest is discussed. Samaritans Hong Kong: 24 hour hotline: 28960000  Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongkongconfidential/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube and anywhere you find your podcasts.    Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hongkongconfidential?alert=2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Author Ritu Hemnani talks to us about her children's book "Gope and Meera- A Migration Story", a beautiful heartwarming story about a cherished homeland that is left behind and why the Sindhi Community is scattered across the world today. It is a captivating tale of tragic loss and determined hope. Ritu gives us an insight into her family background and the evolution of the book. A wonderful interview with a talented author who is passionate about her culture and her work. www.rituhemnani.com Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongkongconfidential/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube and anywhere you find your podcasts.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hongkongconfidential?alert=2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sky Siu from Kely Support Group talks to us about the vital role that the NGO plays in supporting Hong Kong youth between the ages of 14 and 24. Their programs and services focus on knowledge, resistance and harm reduction around drug and alcohol misuse. Using a positive youth development approach, with a priority of understanding young peoples perspectives, Kely Support Group equip young people with key life skills and resilience as they face various challenges growing up in Hong Kong. www.kely.org Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongkongconfidential/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube and anywhere you find your podcasts.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hongkongconfidential?alert=2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Sonia Samtani from All About You Wellness Centre talks to us about coping with life's struggles. She discusses many very interesting topics including hypnotherapy, past life regression, healing your inner child, sports enhancement, chakra healing, affirmations, spiritual mentoring and public speaking. An informative and insightful discussion that can help with both healing and self development. Contact Sonia on her website http://www.allaboutyoucentre.com/ Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongkongconfidential/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube and anywhere you find your podcasts.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hongkongconfidential?alert=2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Neha Lata shares her life story with us. She talks about being forced into an arranged marriage and how this affected her self-esteem and self-worth. She took steps to do what was best for her and meditation and mindfulness was a huge key in finding her way to a life she loves. Hong Kong Confidential Details Email: juleshannaford1@gmail.com Network: https://www.auscastnetwork.com/home/hong-kong-confidential Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hongkongconfidential/ Twitter: www.twitter.com/juleshannaford/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hongkongconfidential/ Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Stitcher, YouTube and anywhere you find your podcasts.  Support the show: https://www.patreon.com/hongkongconfidential?alert=2See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.