R.F. Kuang Changed How I Read — And Why Celebrity Commercials Are Out of Control

R.F. Kuang Changed How I Read — And Why Celebrity Commercials Are Out of ControlWhat happens when a book completely changes how you see reading—and pop culture completely burns you out?In this episode of the GoManDo Podcast, Mike talks about discovering R.F. Kuang and how her novels (Yellowface, The Poppy War Trilogy, Babel) opened the door to a genre he never thought he’d enjoy: historical fantasy.From there, the conversation shifts into a candid rant about modern pop culture—celebrity commercials, online betting ads, and why famous faces are suddenly everywhere you look on TV.Mike also shares thoughts on upcoming travel to Indonesia, snorkeling in Lombok, packing smarter, and slowing down how we experience both travel and media.If you enjoy honest conversations about books, culture, travel, and everyday frustrations, you’re in the right place.00:00 Tea, GoManDo gear & opening thoughts01:00 Discovering R.F. Kuang03:00 Falling into historical fantasy05:30 Why reading outside your lane matters06:00 Celebrity commercials & pop culture overload08:15 Indonesia travel & snorkeling plans11:15 Final thoughts🎙️ New GoManDo episodes every Thursday📍 Subscribe here: https://www.youtube.com/@RealGoManDo⏱️ Chapters👇 Connect with GoManDoFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/GomandoLLCInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/gomando/Website: https://www.gomando.com