In this episode of Roots, Routes, Voices, Clara Matonhodze and Bryan Wright engage with Bao M. Nguyen to explore his transformation from the vibrant streets of Saigon to the serene neighborhoods of Cincinnati. Bao shares his enduring memories of life in Vietnam, the upheaval of immigrating to the United States, and his quest for a sense of belonging in the Midwest. His story highlights his family's resilience amid war and separation, his rise and subsequent departure from Procter & Gamble, and how redefining success inspired him to foster community through initiatives like Cincinnati’s Asian Food Fest and Asianati. Through Bao’s experiences, the episode examines the true cost of freedom, the challenges of establishing a new home, and the intricate layers of identity formed between cultures.Driven by his grandparents’ tales of snow, Bao moved to Dayton, Ohio from Vietnam at fifteen. After graduating from Miamisburg High School, he earned a BS in Electrical Engineering from the University of Cincinnati. Bao began his career at Procter & Gamble as an automation engineer and advanced to become the North America Sales Manager for Swiffer. Despite his success, he felt compelled to pursue a path that aligned more closely with his values and experiences.Bao emphasizes that his achievements are a product of his family and community support rather than being self-made. Recognizing the numerous individuals who aided his journey, he chose a career in financial services to help guide multi-generational and under-served families through their own challenges. Bao is committed to making a meaningful impact in his community, building on the foundation laid by those who supported him.Chapters:00:00 – Introduction00:40 – Adjusting to Isolation in California08:29 – Family Reunification Journey15:52 – "Many Moms Shaped My Childhood"17:01 – Self-Made or Community-Built?26:07 – Conflicting Leadership Realizations31:04 – "Empowerment Through Financial Impact"34:29 – Financial Guidance: A Reluctant Mentor39:26 – "Asian Food Fest Celebrates Community"43:45 – "Family Mealtime: A Sharing Negotiation"52:01 – "Global Belonging Among Asian Identities"55:40 – Evolving Through Struggles01:02:05 – Cultivating Legacy and Self-Worth01:04:41 – Podcast Credits and Acknowledgments01:05:20 – OutroQuotes:"Sometimes the ladder leans on the wrong tree. Find your roots and create a sense of belonging for others."- Bao M. Nguyen"We never truly arrive; we're always evolving. Building a community is as powerful as finding a home."- Clara Matonhodze"Every journey shapes our landscape. By sharing our roots and supporting each other, our community grows stronger."- Bryan WrightKey TakeawaysThe Sound and Soul of HomeFrom Displacement to ReunionRedefining Success and “Making It” in AmericaThe Power of Pivot: Owning Your PathBuilding Bridges and Community RootsThe Ever-Evolving Meaning of BelongingLegacy, Responsibility, and Planting SeedsInspiration for the Next ChapterConnect with Bao M. Nguyen:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bao-m-nguyen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bao_down4what/Website: https://www.asianati.com/Call To Action:Visit Home - Cincinnati Compass to sign up for our newsletter and stay connected about upcoming community events.

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