the last meeting of the week

Today, we are joined by Norman Ng, the co-founder of Hong Kong-based multi-disciplinary design studio, DEFT (Design 852).In this episode, we explore Norman’s fascinating journey from studying art in the UK to launching his own architecture firm at just 27 years old. We dive deep into what it takes to design for high-density cities like Hong Kong, sharing the creative tricks behind making micro-apartments not just livable, but comfortable. We also discuss DEFT's unique, carefree company culture, their expansion into the Philippines, and why embracing AI is the next crucial step for designers and architects who want to stay relevant. Finally, we share our thoughts on the future of housing and why community-centric co-living might be here to stay.Topics Covered:The origin of Norman’s surname and his early years balancing art and architectureTaking the leap to start DEFT at age 27 with co-founder Peter LampardWhy DEFT handles architecture, interiors, and branding all under one roofHow AI is reshaping the design industry (and why human "soul" still matters)Design hacks for micro-apartments and the reality of high-density livingThe long-term future of co-living in expensive urban hubs-Building an international studio culture between Hong Kong and the Philippines

In this episode, we wrap up a long week with French artist Faustine Badrichani. After 15 years in New York, Faustine and her family packed nine suitcases and moved to the "jungle" of Hong Kong. We dive deep into her creative journey, starting from a 365-day drawing challenge, to her upcoming showcase at Art Central.We discuss the evolution of her work—from painting to silicone body casting and unique vaseline-and-pigment body prints—and how motherhood profoundly shifts a woman's relationship with her body. Along the way, we debate the frustrating dynamics of modern social media, the bizarre censorship of the human body online, and why the Mediterranean Sea will always be the ultimate happy place.

In this episode, we welcome back Adrian Battisby, Vice President of Interior Design at Wynn Design and Development, to discuss his transformative first year moving from a design consultant role to the client side,. Adrian shares the "steep learning curve" of transitioning into a senior corporate leadership position and offers a toolkit of advice for designers looking to make a similar leap in their careers,.Key topics covered in this conversation include:• The Business of Design: How moving to a large-scale corporate environment actually freed Adrian to focus more on core design by offloading studio management tasks like HR, invoicing, and procurement to specialized internal departments,,.• Adapting Communication Styles: The importance of being a "chameleon" in your communication. Adrian explains why you must modify your language—using fast-paced, fact-based "headlines" for the C-suite, operational details for hotel staff, and technical facts for the finance team,,.• Poise and Presence: The role of professional coaching in developing the "white knuckle" confidence required to present multiple high-stakes projects to global executives in a matter of minutes,,.• The Wynn Design Aesthetic: A look into the "maximalist," theatrical, and "more is more" philosophy that defines the Wynn brand, and why it requires a specific type of designer who enjoys "surprise and drama at every turn",.• Leadership Philosophies: Adrian discusses his "servant leadership" style—pushing the team from behind to ensure they have the resources to flourish—and the vital rule of "critique in private, praise in public",.• Strategic Vision vs. The Pivot: Learning to maintain a creative vision while remaining humble enough to pivot 180 degrees when the business requires a change in direction,,.Whether you are an interior designer, architect, or creative professional, this interview provides deep insights into the business acumen and emotional intelligence needed to succeed on the owner/operator side of the industry,,.About the Guest: Adrian Battisby is the VP of Interior Design at Wynn Design and Development. He previously held senior roles at LW Design Group

In this episode, Andrea Bonaceto reflects on a journey that moves from street music in London and a career in finance to a multidisciplinary art practice shaped by blockchain, AI, and philosophy. What emerges is a portrait of an artist who resists labels, follows curiosity as a guiding force, and sees technology not as a replacement for human creativity, but as a catalyst to deepen it. Bonaceto shares how moments of hype, sudden visibility, and creative overwhelm led him to question not just the art world, but the very idea of authorship, value, and progress.At the center of the conversation is Untitled, his evolving, global project that invites participants into an AI-powered immersive experience—part artwork, part collective self-portrait. Through stories of collaboration, doubt, and reinvention, Bonaceto explores what it means to create in a time when tools can generate answers instantly, yet questions remain profoundly human. The episode is an invitation to slow down, to think more deeply about why we make, and to imagine how art and technology might help us reconnect with ourselves and with one another.

Ali Batten and Daniel Kamp are a charismatic couple that many years ago decided to join their lives and their talents. Together they create amazing functional sculptures that elevate the significance of each single object. After following them for many years I had the chance to chat with them and became enamored with they way the are and complement each other.

Coinciding with BODW in Hong Kong in December 2025, we had the chance to welcome Michele in our studio and listen to his privileged view on design, architecture and life. Michele has the experience of someone that has lived several lives and the energy and curiosity of someone that has many more in front of him. Special thanks to the Consul General of Italy in Hong Kong, his excellency Mr. Carmelo Ficarra for his assistance in making it happen. Also special mention to Mr. William Figliola for being of essential help in coordinating the recording of this episode.

Italian design veteran Massimiliano Merati joins host Fernando Mendez for an unfiltered conversation about the evolution of the design industry, from family heritage to global powerhouse. From his early days in Brianza district to pioneering the Asian market for brands like B&B Italia and Molteni, Max shares lessons on risk, reinvention, and keeping “a little poetry in business.”A masterclass in design strategy, culture, and passion, from someone who has lived it all.

Fernando Mendez sits down with J.J. Acuña, founder of Bespoke Studio, for a candid and illuminating exploration of what it means to design with soul, intuition, and purpose.J.J. opens up about his 20-year journey in Hong Kong, from the intensity of corporate architecture to founding Bespoke Studio, a design practice that blends human empathy, cultural depth, and storytelling into every project.Together, Fernando and J.J. discuss how identity, intuition, and spirituality inform creativity in an age of noise and automation. Their conversation transcends design, and is an invitation to reflect on how we create, connect, and exist with intention.Host: Fernando MendezGuest: J.J. Acuña, Founder of Bespoke StudioProduced by: YescaSubscribe for more thoughtful conversations on creativity, culture, and the art of meaningful work.

Join us for an insightful discussion with Simon Yu, Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, as we explore the intersection of architecture and urban development in Hong Kong. With nearly 30 years of experience, Simon shares his journey from Scotland to becoming a key player in iconic projects, including Hong Kong's new masterpiece, The Henderson.In this episode, Simon reflects on the challenges and triumphs of working on groundbreaking designs, the philosophy behind Zaha Hadid's innovative approach, and the importance of creating spaces that enhance community and connection. We also uncover what it means to design in a city as dynamic as Hong Kong and how architecture can shape the urban narrative for future generations.

In this episode, we explore the transformative journey of the Kai Tak Sports Park, Hong Kong’s latest landmark, with Ismael Merchan, Senior Associate at Populous. As one of the pivotal figures behind this monumental project, Ismael shares the vision and challenges of crafting Asia’s premier sports and entertainment complex.We discuss how Kai Tak Sports Park is set to redefine Hong Kong's urban landscape, blending the latest in architectural innovation with cultural integration, and learn about the project's inception, the exquisite fusion of sport and entertainment, and the strategic design choices that make it a 24/7 vibrant destination. Merchan also shares the challenges of constructing such a massive urban oasis, and how it aims to bring Hong Kong back onto the map for global events.

This week, we meet with Jason Dembski, co-founder of HKWALLS, as we explore the vibrant world of street art transforming Hong Kong. Discover how a passion project initiated in 2014 has grown into a significant cultural force, bringing local and international artists together to adorn the city with stunning murals, and continues to innovate and inspire in Hong Kong’s ever-evolving landscape.In this episode, Jason shares the journey from humble beginnings to a celebrated annual festival that captivates the city during Art Month. Learn about the challenges and triumphs of organizing such an event, the changing perceptions around street art, and the exciting addition of HKWALLS Rooms this year at PMQ. We discuss the intricate process behind gaining wall permissions, artist selections, and the importance of community engagement.

Join us for an insightful conversation with Yacine Bensalem, an acclaimed architect and designer with a fascinating background and international flair. From his early days in Algeria and Italy to his education in Paris, Yacine has traversed continents to influence design across the globe. We explore his love for Hong Kong, a city that reminds him of the iconic "Blade Runner" and offers endless opportunities.In this episode, Yacine shares his remarkable career journey, including his collaborations with luxury fashion brand Balmain and the creative process behind projects like Pata Negra House. He discusses how inspirations from personal travels and experiences shape his work, as well as the excitement of crafting meaningful designs within various constraints.

Join us for an in-depth discussion with Alex Nude, a prominent figure in the Hong Kong nightlife scene. We explore the evolving dynamics of club culture and DJing, and how Alex transitioned from a passionate record collector to a sought-after DJ shaping the social vibe of venues like Cassio, where he is currently Music Director.In this episode, Alex shares his insights on the changing landscape of nightlife globally, the challenges of balancing profession with passion, and the unique experiences Hong Kong's scene offers to both locals and visitors. Whether you’re curious about the life of a DJ, the future of nightlife post-pandemic, or just love a good behind-the-scenes story, this conversation sheds light on the nuances of entertaining through music.

In this weeks episode, we sit down with Hernan, a talented designer celebrated for his creative contributions to the culinary landscape in Hong Kong and beyond. Hernan discusses his journey from architectural beginnings in Chile to establishing a renowned design practice in one of the world's most dynamic cities.Join us as we explore his experience designing iconic venues like the Peak Lookout and Veranda, and learn how he blends functionality with aesthetic appeal. Hernan shares insights into overcoming design challenges, the importance of adaptability in a fast-paced environment, and his thoughts on the future of restaurant design.

Join us for an engaging discussion with Simone and Jeremy, the creative minds behind Design Anthology magazine. They share insights about adapting in the creative world, the evolution of their editorial journey, the pivotal moments that shaped their careers, and how their passion for storytelling and design connects cultures and communities across the globe. Whether talking about the predictability of living in Japan, the vibrancy of Bali's evolving art scene, or the seamless transition of creative collaborations, this episode is a testament to the power of creative synergy and exploration. Tune in to learn about Design Anthology’s commitment to highlighting underrepresented voices and crafting timeless narratives that resonate with a global audience – and their tips for slow travel, responsible tourism, and seizing the right opportunities in the ever-dynamic media landscape.

In this week’s episode, we welcome Austin Bell, a passionate photographer who has dedicated years to capturing every basketball court in Hong Kong. Austin recounts his journey from North Carolina to Hong Kong, and shares insights into how he meticulously documented an impressive 2,549 courts. He discusses the architectural significance of these spaces, the cultural fabric they represent, and the challenges he faced while photographing them. Austin also reveals the artistic and organizational efforts that went into compiling his work into a stunning book, now available for pre-order. Austin and Fernando explore the rich narratives behind these overlooked sites and the vibrant experiences found across the city's diverse landscapes. Join us for this enlightening conversation on photography, community, and the beauty of Hong Kong's basketball courts.

In this episode, we sit down with renowned architectural photographer Kris Provoost, who shares his journey from architecture to photography, focusing on the transformative urban landscapes of Asia. Kris discusses the rapid architectural growth in China since 2010, his storytelling approach through photography, and the significance of capturing a building's essence within its surroundings. He highlights standout projects like the Henderson Tower in Hong Kong and explores themes of modern architecture, sustainable urban living, and the evolving narratives of global cityscapes. Join us for an engaging conversation about the intersection of architecture and photography, and what the future holds for urban environments.

In this enlightening episode, we welcome Luigi Corbelli, CEO of Infinity Surfaces, to explore the key elements of success in business. Through personal anecdotes and mentorship experiences, we discuss the importance of passion, perseverance, and the role of mentorship in shaping career trajectories. Discover how personal and professional relationships contribute to building a successful business, and learn valuable strategies for fostering trust and collaboration in your own endeavors. Tune in for insights and inspiring stories that can reshape your perspective on success in both life and work.

Dive into the captivating journey of Jay Khan, the creative force behind COA, Asia's 4th best bar. Explore how Jay's passion for agave spirits and his dedication to authentic hospitality catapulted COA to global fame. Join us as we discuss the evolution of bar culture, Jay’s inspirations, and his vision for the future of F&B in Asia.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Lorenzo Antinori, the mastermind behind Bar Leone, awarded Asia's Best Bar and the World's 2nd Best Bar. Explore his journey from Rome, the evolution of bar culture, and the secrets that led to Bar Leone’s global acclaim. Discover how Lorenzo brings innovation and personal connection to the forefront of the F&B industry.

Join us in this enlightening episode as we dive deep into the world of branding with Sara Biancaccio, co-founder and creative director of Panglossian. Sara shares her journey from Italy to Hong Kong, the evolution of branding in Asia, and how her creative process shapes remarkable projects like Bar Leone and Trattoria Felino. In this candid conversation, we explore the importance of authenticity in branding, navigating cultural differences in design, insights on the revitalization of Hong Kong's hospitality scene, and Sara's dream projects and future aspirations.  Whether you're a design enthusiast or just curious about the art of branding, this episode is a must-watch! Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more inspiring content.

Join us for an enlightening conversation with Filippo Sebastio as we explore the impact of artificial intelligence on consciousness and society. Filippo, an early supporter of the podcast and an inspiring fellow podcaster, shares his insights on the transformative power of AI and how it shapes our understanding of intelligence. In this episode, we discuss the implications of large language models like ChatGPT and their potential to revolutionize our interaction with technology. Filippo highlights his audio-visual projects and the philosophical discussions they inspire, revealing how AI is not just a tool but a catalyst for deeper conversations about our humanity. We dive into ethical challenges, the evolving relationship between humans and machines, and the future of productivity in an AI-driven world. Filippo also shares engaging observations from his interactions with philosophers at Hong Kong University, shedding light on the philosophical dimensions of AI. Don’t miss this thought-provoking exploration of AI and its role in our lives. Subscribe, like, and hit the notification bell to stay updated on future episodes where we continue to challenge assumptions and inspire meaningful dialogue. We’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!

In this episode, we explore the inspiring journey of Italian designer Massimiliano Tosetto, who blends global influences with his deep-rooted Italian heritage to create unique lighting solutions at Lodes. Discover how his experiences in vibrant cities, including Miami and the heart of Italy, have shaped his creative vision and approach to design. Massimiliano shares the significance of understanding market needs, the importance of craftsmanship in lighting design, and the evolution of his family-run business dedicated to innovation. He offers valuable insights on anticipating future trends, prioritizing quality, and fostering personal connections in the industry. Join us for a captivating conversation that celebrates the fusion of tradition and modernity, and the passion behind creating environments that resonate with individuals. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share your thoughts in the comments!

Join us on this engaging episode as we dive into the fascinating transformation of the iconic Dusit Thani Bangkok hotel. Our guest, Joy Sriyuksiri, shares insights into the meticulous design process that bridges the traditional essence of the original hotel with modern luxury and experience. Joy discusses the importance of creating a holistic guest experience, the challenges of preserving heritage, and how the Dusit Thani group's vision for the future is coming to life.  We also explore the creative collaboration behind the hotel’s design, the significance of storytelling in hospitality, and the vibrant future of Bangkok as a hospitality hub. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that celebrates both innovation and tradition in the heart of Thailand!

Join us for an insightful conversation with Hugo Belloy, a dynamic figure in Hong Kong’s hospitality and event scene. In this episode, Hugo shares his journey from organizing private parties in Paris to launching his successful venture, Surprise Surprise, known for its immersive experiences and vibrant atmosphere. Discover how Hugo weaves creativity, music, and emotion into the art of hosting unforgettable events. We'll dive into the importance of identity, the power of nostalgia, and how genuine connections shape memorable experiences. Hugo also teases an exciting new project aimed at bringing together a community of like-minded individuals in a comfortable yet underground setting. Whether you're an aspiring event planner or simply curious about the art of hospitality, this episode is packed with inspiration and creative insights. Don't miss it! Subscribe to stay updated on future episodes and to explore the fascinating world of hospitality and creativity with us!

In this engaging episode of our podcast, we sit down with Elsa Jeandedieu, a talented artist and muralist based in Hong Kong. Join us as Elsa shares her inspiring journey, from her roots in southern France to navigating the bustling creative scene in Hong Kong. Elsa opens up about her experience balancing motherhood, a busy artistic career, and her passion for running as a means to relieve stress and find inspiration. We delve into her latest projects, including large-scale commissioned works for luxury brands, and hear about her transformative "Share a Smile" initiative during the pandemic, which brought joy and positivity to the community. Elsa discusses the importance of creativity, connection, and finding one’s unique artistic voice while navigating the pressures of the industry. She also reflects on the beauty of collaborative work and the lessons learned throughout her colorful career. Whether you're an aspiring artist, a parent juggling responsibilities, or simply interested in the creative process, this episode offers valuable insights and heartfelt stories. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit that notification bell to stay updated on more inspiring conversations!

In this episode of "The Last Meeting of the Week," we welcome Inaki Amate, partner at EY and head of innovation and experience for Asia Pacific. Join us as Inaki shares his fascinating journey from Zaragoza, Spain, to becoming a key player in the design and innovation space in Hong Kong. We explore the expansive concept of design beyond the traditional boundaries, discussing how design thinking can address complex problems in diverse fields, including architecture, service design, and even government policies. Inaki shares insights gained from his experiences, including a groundbreaking project with the New Zealand government focused on the re-integration of inmates, showcasing the transformative power of design in social contexts. Tune in to hear about the evolving relationship between Europe and Asia, the importance of education in fostering future talent, and Inaki's vision for how Hong Kong can navigate its unique challenges to redefine its global identity. Whether you're in design, business, or simply curious about innovation, this episode is packed with inspiration and valuable perspectives. Don't forget to subscribe for more engaging conversations and insights!

In this episode of "The Last Meeting of the Week," we sit down with Moira Moser, founder of M Moser Associates, to discuss the intersection of design, innovation, and effective communication in a global organization. Moira shares her insights on how to maintain energy and passion while managing projects across different time zones and cultures. We delve into the importance of empathy in design, the evolution of organizational culture, and how the concept of design thinking can be applied to solve complex problems. Moira reflects on her journey from a small office in Hong Kong to a global firm, emphasizing the significance of collaboration and inclusivity in fostering creativity. As we explore the role of sustainability and technology in shaping modern workplaces, Moira provides valuable advice on how organizations can embrace change and empower their teams to address multi-disciplinary needs in projects. Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with practical insights for professionals in design, architecture, and beyond! Be sure to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more episodes featuring thought leaders and innovators! We delve into the importance of empathy in design, the evolution of organizational culture, and how the concept of design thinking can be applied to solve complex problems. Moira reflects on her journey from a small office in Hong Kong to a global firm, emphasizing the significance of collaboration and inclusivity in fostering creativity. As we explore the role of sustainability and technology in shaping modern workplaces, Moira provides valuable advice on how organizations can embrace change and empower their teams. Don't miss this inspiring conversation filled with practical insights for professionals in design, architecture, and beyond! Be sure to like, subscribe, and hit the notification bell for more episodes featuring thought leaders and innovators!

Join us in this exciting episode as we dive into the inspiring journey of Carla Martinesi, founder and CEO of Chomp. Discover how Carla is revolutionizing the food industry by tackling the pressing issue of food waste through her innovative app. From her diverse background to the challenges of entrepreneurship, Carla shares her insights and experiences that led to the creation of a sustainable solution. Tune in to learn about her passion for sustainability, the impact of her work, and her vision for the future as she aims to expand Chomp across new markets! Don’t miss this enlightening conversation that combines business, sustainability, and personal growth.

In this captivating season finale of "The Last Meeting of the Week," host Fernando Mendez sits down with Adrian Battisby, Vice President of Interior Design at Wynn Resorts. With over two decades of experience in luxury hospitality design, Adrian shares his journey from drawing board to boardroom, offering unique insights into the evolving world of interior design. Discover how Adrian's multicultural upbringing and early exposure to the hospitality industry shaped his career path. Learn about the delicate balance between creativity and profitability in high-end hotel design, and how technology is reshaping the industry. Adrian also discusses his transformative work on the Waldorf Astoria in Kuala Lumpur, blending Islamic art with contemporary luxury. This episode is a masterclass in leadership, creativity, and adaptability in the fast-paced world of hospitality design. Whether you're an aspiring designer, a hospitality professional, or simply curious about the stories behind luxurious spaces, this conversation offers valuable lessons and inspiration. Join us for this enlightening finale as we explore the past, present, and future of hospitality design through the eyes of one of the industry's leading figures. Don't miss this perfect blend of artistic vision and business acumen that caps off an incredible first season of The Last Meeting of the Week. #HospitalityDesign #LuxuryHotels #InteriorDesign #CreativeLeadership #TheLastMeetingOfTheWeek

In this episode of The Last Meeting of the Week, host Fernando Mendez sits down with Sarah V, the dynamic founder of Women of Hong Kong. Sarah shares her inspiring journey of building a thriving community for women in Hong Kong, from WhatsApp groups to the creation of the Women's Lounge. Dive into discussions about:• The power of authenticity in business and social media• Overcoming fears in public speaking and entrepreneurship• The importance of community feedback in shaping business decisions• Sarah's initiative to provide financial education to domestic helpers• Insights on aging, confidence, and personal growth Sarah offers valuable perspectives on women's empowerment, the challenges of public perception, and the rewards of giving back to the community. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a community builder, or simply interested in personal development, this episode offers something for everyone. Join Fernando and Sarah for an engaging conversation that will inspire you to connect, share resources, and make a positive impact in your community. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode of The Last Meeting of the Week! #WomenOfHongKong #CommunityBuilding #Entrepreneurship #WomensEmpowerment #TheLastMeetingOfTheWeek

Join host Fernando Mendez as he sits down with the talented artist Riya Chandiramani in this captivating episode of The Last Meeting of The Week. Riya opens up about her unique artistic journey, from her iconic cereal series to her provocative glove paintings. Discover how her multicultural background, struggles with identity, and passion for Muay Thai have shaped her art and perspective on life. In this candid conversation, Riya discusses: • The inspiration behind her cereal and glove art series • Her experiences as an Indian artist raised in Hong Kong • How Muay Thai helped her overcome personal challenges • Her thoughts on societal pressures and gender representation in art Whether you're an art enthusiast, aspiring creator, or simply curious about the intersection of culture and creativity, this episode offers a fascinating glimpse into the mind of one of Hong Kong's rising artistic talents. Don't miss this insightful and inspiring discussion that touches on everything from gender roles to the healing power of martial arts.

Walter Vaz is a professional footballer and personal trainer from France that since he came to Hong Kong has left a strong footprint in the local community. He not only is very successful with his private clients but also finds time to help those who are less favored in adopting a healthy set of habits that will improve their life. it was an amazing conversation. Please let us know your thoughts in the comments!

Marco Galimberti is the CEO of Venchi in APAC and lives in Hong Kong since 2017. He has seen the evolution of the Chinese society from a privileged point of view pre, during and post-pandemic. Always a sharp and informed analyst of anything that surrounds him, he brought to The Last Meeting of The Week a fresh analysis of what happens in this part of the world.

Constant Tedder is a serial entrepreneur that is behind the creation the co-working brand The Hive, the charity Earth.org and FlyFarm, where he builds robotics for insect bioconversion of organic waste into sustainable protein. He talks clear business and has a track record and an energy for the future that made this conversation one of the most interesting that I've had so far.

Explaining who Francesco Vitali is through his occupations is quite difficult as he is versatile and ever busy: he is partner in Deloitte, vice-president of the Italian Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong, tennis and padel enthusiast, husband and father and president the Sampdoria Club Hong Kong TT. This last project explains a lot about him: he is a leader who likes to create community even if he is not directly in the spotlight. He is a doer and the last Championship of the Legal League Hong Kong 2024 was an inevitable consequence. He is also a friend who came to celebrate with me the cup that encapsulates three years of successes and everything that was behind it.

Valeria Pola is co-founder of Pola Zanoni, a design studio based in Hong Kong. She has extensive experience both in the professional practice as well as in the education side of it. Don't miss out on the opportunity to gain valuable insights from Valeria Pola as she discusses the latest trends and her experiences with lighting design. Subscribe to our channel for more deep dives into the design world with Fernando Mendez.#DesignPodcast #LightingExpertise #ValeriaPola, #FernandoMendez #MilanDesignWeekPrep #AsianMarketTrends #DesignInnovation #InteriorLighting #ArchitecturalInsights #DesignCommunity#interiordesign #architecture #bebitalia #poliform #salonedelmobile #hongkong #entrepreneurship #education

Caterina Verna is a co founder of The Last Meeting of the Week, on top of being an excellent professional, a mom and a great life partner. It only made sense to have this celebratory episode with her. We talk about our journey, our difficulties, and we go a bit into the world of ceramic tiles to which we are both strongly linked. --------- #podcast #personalgrowth #milestone #mom #working #succesful #ceramic #asia

Join us in this enlightening episode of "The Last Meeting of the Week" where host Fernando Mendez welcomes the talented Emma Maclean, a visionary in the world of interior design. Emma shares her captivating journey from working in a large firm to creating a brand with her own name shining on the company logo, signifying her commitment to innovation and excellence in design. The conversation takes us through the bustling energy of Art Basel week in Hong Kong, reflecting on the vibrant intersections of art and design. Emma's personal stories of her family's deep-rooted history in Hong Kong and her own international experiences enrich the discussion, showcasing how global influences shape her design philosophy. Fernando and Emma dive deep into the ever-evolving landscape of Hong Kong, discussing how the city's dynamic nature offers unique opportunities and challenges for creatives. They reminisce about the past, from the 1967 riots to the handover in 1997, and explore how such events have contributed to the city's resilience and adaptability. Emma's account of her parents' history in Hong Kong and her own international birth story in Taipei offers a fascinating glimpse into her multifaceted identity. The episode concludes with a message of optimism, focusing on the potential for growth and success amidst adversity, and the shared belief that staying resilient in Hong Kong paves the way for unparalleled opportunities. ------------------------------- #TheLastMeetingOfTheWeek#InteriorDesignPodcast#ArtBaselHongKong#DesignInnovation#HongKongHeritage#CreativeJourneys#DesignIndustryTalks#CulturalIntersections#GlobalDesignPerspective

In this eye-opening episode of "The Last Meeting of the Week," host Fernando Mendez engages in a thought-provoking dialogue with fashion maven Annika Visser. Dive deep into the heart of the fashion industry as Annika exposes its challenges and lays out innovative strategies for a more sustainable and ethical future. From the cold, blue lights of past runways to the warm, inviting glow of today's design ethos, Annika takes us on a journey through the evolving landscape of fashion. We discuss the aesthetic pressures and environmental impacts plaguing the industry, and how shifting to mindful consumption can lead to a stylish yet sustainable wardrobe revolution. Listen as Annika advocates for a shift away from fast fashion's fleeting allure, proposing a toast to durability, timeless design, and the undervalued charm of aging with elegance. This episode isn't just about looking good—it's a masterclass in feeling great about the clothes we wear and the choices we make.

Join us on a fascinating journey with Christian, a 65-year-old street musician who has dedicated 70% of his life to busking. In this episode, we dive deep into the soul of street performance as Christian shares his story of passion, freedom, and the art of living through music. From the vibrant roads of Hong Kong to the humble beginnings in France, Christian has played his way across the globe, bringing melodies to the bustling streets and touching the hearts of passersby. Discover how he transformed his love for music into a lifelong adventure, and why he chooses the path less traveled over conventional success. Christian's tale is not just about music; it's a narrative of profound self-discovery and the courage to live life on your own terms. Learn about his unique perspective on life as a street artist, his impromptu decision to join our podcast, and his secrets to maintaining the freedom that has defined his existence. Don't miss this extraordinary conversation that will inspire you to think differently about life, art, and the beauty of pursuing what truly makes you happy. Hit play to be swept away by the candid, unfiltered stories of a man who lives to the rhythm of his own tune. 🎵🎙️ Subscribe for more inspiring stories and join us for a weekly dose of humanity and artistry. Drop a comment below to share your thoughts or if Christian's music has ever graced your day! #BuskerLife #MusicianStories #PodcastSeries #StreetMusic #LifeOfFreedom #ChristianBusker #JourneyOfMelody

Dive deep into the intense world of addiction with psychologist Jessica Lau on the latest episode of 'The Last Meeting of the Week' hosted by Fernando Mendez. Tune in as we explore the pervasive issue of workaholism in the bustling cityscape of Hong Kong and its impact on mental health.------------Books referenced by the guest:Chained to the desk https://www.amazon.com/Chained-Desk-Third-Workaholics-Clinicians/dp/0814789234A Matter of Death and Life Love, Loss and What Matters in the Endhttps://blackwells.co.uk/bookshop/product/9780349428550?gC=69e1aafecc&gad_source=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA0PuuBhBsEiwAS7fsNYA-NE9Kd4DZRMjI9Ofa3OUogzYha1rm1ahAAAYRH6iPupTjFMUj3xoCmDkQAvD_BwEIn the realm of the hungry ghost https://www.amazon.com/Realm-Hungry-Ghosts-Encounters-Addiction/dp/155643880XProfile and contact of Jessica:https://www.imi.com.hk/counselling-psychologist-hong-kong-central-jessica-lau.html

In this episode we talk with Observer, a street artist that has filled the city of Hong Kong with writings that are a direct hit to the conscience: Shark Fin Makes your Penis..., Your Mom is a Dynamic Zero, and others. We had to take a lot precautions to ensure everyone's safety: we haven't seen his face and all file that contains his voice has been deleted.

Filippo is "a resident" of The Last Meeting of The Week. Once (at least) every quarter, he comes and we talk about everything. At times we touch personal everyday life, or a single topic.

OLLIE HAAS is a Ugandan-Austrian designer passionate about sustainability and aviation. Also, he means always a great conversation. In this podcast we try to define what is sustainability and what approach we should have towards it. Virtue signalling, kale-salad syndrome, social media, education and many more are the topics discussed in this episode. Enjoy!

In their discussion, Jacobo and Fernando covered a range of important topics for companies looking to enter the Chinese market. They stressed the importance of thorough research, strategic planning, and localization. Rather than viewing China as a single opportunity, companies need to evaluate if their products fill needs. Once committed, goals and timelines should be set to ensure proper investment. Both speakers drew on years of experience working with international brands to enter China successfully. Their advice emphasized truly understanding local platforms, consumers, and cultural differences to effectively engage the market over time. For any company aspiring to reach China's potential, carefully heeding their guidance will be invaluable.

EDGAR SANUY is one of those people that you regret not seeing more. He is the Executive Chef for Epicurean Group in Hong Kong, a photographer, a new dad and someone with who conversation flows and tests the limit of our equipment. It was great to know more about his life and to exchange different perceptions of, apparently, controversial topics like the relationship between Spain and Catalonia. So far this episode has been the longest and the one that has taken me longer to edit; all with great pleasure. Enjoy! ------------------------------ Special thanks to winenot.com.hk. Please use the code LASTMEET on check out for a 5% discount on the final invoice.

ADRIANA CHAN is an inspiration from the first minute that you meet her: single mom, former police woman, entrepreneur, teacher and pioneering in the field of education. She is the founder of MASS Preschool and the Spanish Primary School in Tai Po and board member of the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in Hong Kong. ------------------------------ Special thanks to winenot.com.hk. Please use the code LASTMEET on check out for a 5% discount on the final invoice.

CASEY ANDERSON lives and breathes music, working as a DJ and producer. His life story has made him a living music library, and this is perceived on the dance floor when he has the reigns of the room. ------------------------------ Special thanks to winenot.com.hk. Please use the code LASTMEET on check out for a 5% discount on the final invoice.

FILIPPO SEBASTIO is an expert on sustainability, a very smart and eloquent man, a friend and the producer behind the first seven episodes of this podcast. This episode is the beginning of his "residency" in this podcast: once per quarter we will gather here to talk about a certain topic. In this episode he interviews me, digging into the motives behind the creation of this project and some deeper questions. ------------------------------ Special thanks to winenot.com.hk. Please use the code LASTMEET on check out for a 5% discount on the final invoice.