Formosa Dream Chasers

If you’ve ever questioned where you are in life, wondered whether you’re falling behind, or felt uncertain about the path you’re on, then this episode is for you. In this special solo episode of Formosa Dream Chasers, host Mary Anne Sioco steps away from interviews and reflects on the quieter, often unspoken side of pursuing dreams and building a meaningful life. Beyond the polished success stories we often see, this episode explores the reality many people experience in the middle of their journey — the uncertainty, the self-doubt, the pressure, and the exhaustion that can come with trying to build something meaningful. Mary Anne also opens up about her own path, including the difficult decision to pursue communications despite her family’s expectations, the years spent searching for the right opportunities, and how that journey eventually led her to Radio Taiwan International. At its core, this episode is a reflection on progress — and how it often looks very different from what we imagined when we first started chasing our dreams. Sometimes progress is not a major breakthrough or achievement. Sometimes it simply looks like continuing, showing up, and finding meaning in the small moments along the way. Because dreams are rarely built in straight lines — and neither are the people chasing them.

After years of struggling with her health symptoms, Michelle Capistrano finally found the right treatment and support that helped her better understand her body. Today, Michelle talks about how her experience pushed her to create an online platform focused on hormonal health and why representation matters — especially for Asian women navigating perimenopause and menopause. She also reflects on what it means to start over after 40, the importance of holistic health, and why aging should not be seen as the end, but the beginning of a new phase of growth. In this final part of our conversation, Michelle brings together the lessons, reflections, and purpose that emerged from her journey — and why she hopes sharing her story will help other women feel less alone. For more thoughtful conversations with Michelle about women's midlife health, you can find her on: Youtube: @Hormone Harmony After 40 Instagram: hormoneharmonyafter40

Perimenopause affects far more than hormones - from sleep and mental health to relationships, intimacy, work performance, and family dynamics, all of these can be affected by the lack of hormones as women age. In Part 3 of our conversation, Michelle Capistrano shares about the wider impact this stage of life can have as she reflects on the larger systemic issues surrounding women’s healthcare, including why so many women leave consultations feeling dismissed or misdiagnosed. As Michelle explains, the lack of awareness around perimenopause doesn’t just affect women physically — it can also affect how they show up in their careers, marriages, and everyday lives. Asking how women's lives can be changed for the better if only they were properly informed and supported during this stage of life, this episode takes a deeper look at the emotional and social realities many women may quietly suffer through as they enter midlife so tune in to find out more.

How can anyone pursue their dreams without good health? That is the question at the heart of this conversation. Despite finally learning that perimenopause was the root cause of her medical issues, Michelle Capistrano found herself frustrated and hopeless, as she tried to find answers to health issues while navigating through a medical system that minimized her experiences.  She thought finding support would be easier, but instead she faced medical “specialists” who were cavalier and dismissive of her concerns, telling her to simply “suck it up.” Tune in to this episode as we learn about the stigma surrounding hormone replacement therapy, the lack of updated information available to women, and why so many continue suffering silently during perimenopause. By speaking openly about her experience, Michelle hopes more women will feel empowered to advocate for their health — and reclaim the energy, confidence, and quality of life needed to pursue their dreams.

Having lived with health challenges for most of her life, Michelle Capistrano grew up learning how to navigate allergies, inflammation, hospital visits, and the daily realities of living with asthma.  But in her forties, something changed. What started as shoulder pain slowly became migraines, dry eyes, heart palpitations, sleepless nights, anxiety, and emotional changes that seemed impossible to connect. Like many women, Michelle found herself searching for answers without realizing that these symptoms could all point to one thing: perimenopause. Join us in our conversation as we look at how having good health still matters to our dreams and why conversations around women’s health after 40 still matter so deeply today, as Michelle opens up about the early stages of her health journey and the confusion that came with entering a phase of life few women are truly prepared for.

We’ve followed Dan Orlovsky’s journey full circle—from a simple craving for the taste of home, to building Kaohsiung’s only Israeli restaurant, Loracorlo, and navigating the realities of running a business across cultures during uncertain times. Now, in this final chapter, we go beyond the surface and take an honest look at what it really takes to keep a restaurant running—not just in theory, but in reality. Dan opens up about the behind-the-scenes challenges, the constant pressure of sustaining a business, and the moments that truly tested his commitment to the dream he set out to build. More importantly, we explore the mindset that kept him going. What does it take to push through uncertainty, setbacks, and exhaustion? What drives someone to keep moving forward when things get tough? Dan also shares his advice for those thinking about starting a business in Taiwan, along with his vision for the future—bringing this journey not just full circle, but forward. If you’ve ever thought about turning an idea into something real, this final part brings everything together. Stay with us as we dive into the realities and the mindset behind Dan and Loracorlo’s journey.

Last week, we got a glimpse of the complexities of working across different countries as Dan Orlovsky shared his experience in Israel, China, the Philippines, and Taiwan. Today, we zoom in on one of the more intriguing parts of Dan’s journey: navigating culture—not just in food, but in people. What happens when you take leadership styles shaped in Israel and apply them in Taiwan? What makes the Taiwanese workplace culture unique? What was his experience managing teams across Taiwan, China, Israel, and the Philippines—each with their own expectations, communication styles, and ways of working? Tune in to this episode as Dan opens up about the cultural learning curve and the adjustments he had to make to truly connect with his team. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to run a business across cultures, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Last week, we got a glimpse into Dan Orlovsky’s journey before stepping into the restaurant world, along with the story behind Loracorlo's name. In today’s episode, we go a step further and explore what truly makes Loracorlo, Kaohsiung's only Israeli restaurant, stand out. Dan shares how he brings authentic Israeli flavors to southern Taiwan, from carefully selected spices to specialty ingredients imported directly from Israel—each one playing a key role in recreating the dishes he grew up with. With customers often asking how “authentic” his food really is, Dan also reflects on what authenticity means to him. Beyond the food, he opens up about his experiences connecting with people from different cultural backgrounds, including Taiwan, China, Israel, and the Philippines. Join us for Part 2 of our conversation as we uncover the flavors and cross-cultural insights behind Dan and Loracorlo’s journey.

Tucked away in Kaohsiung is a restaurant with a story that stretches far beyond the city’s streets. Loracorlo, the only Israeli restaurant in this southern city, began with a very simple desire: a craving for the taste of home.  In this episode of Formosa Dream Chasers, we sit down with Dan Orlovsky, the founder of Loracorlo, to learn how the COVID-19 pandemic brought him to Taiwan and ultimately led him into the restaurant business. What started as a personal longing for familiar flavors slowly grew into something bigger—an idea that would take shape during one of the most uncertain times in recent history. As the world grappled with the disruptions of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dan found himself navigating unfamiliar territory, turning a simple desire into a dream that would become reality. In this conversation, Dan shares how Loracorlo came to life and what it means to bring a piece of Israeli culture and cuisine to Kaohsiung. Tune in as we explore how a craving for home turned into a dream—and how that dream found its place here in Taiwan.

In Part 1 of our Lunar New Year special, we explored how Taiwan celebrates this vibrant holiday and kicked off our deep dive into the Chinese zodiac. We covered the first half of the zodiac cycle, looking at how the bold energy of the Fire Horse year might influence those born under the year of the Rat, Ox, Tiger, Rabbit, Dragon, Snake, and of course, the Horse. In this episode, we continue the journey as we turn to the remaining signs of the Goat, Monkey, Rooster, Dog, and Pig. We explore what this fast-moving, high-energy year could mean for them. Where might they be stretched or challenged? And most importantly, how can they use this year’s energy to move closer to their goals and dreams? Because here on Formosa Dream Chasers, it’s never just about predictions — it’s about perspective. It’s about taking cultural wisdom and turning it into inspiration for your own path forward. Tune in and step boldly into the year ahead. 🧧🔥🐎

In this special Lunar New Year episode of Formosa Dream Chasers, we take a cultural deep dive into how Taiwan celebrates this vibrant holiday — from meaningful traditions and family reunions to the symbolism behind the Chinese zodiac. As we welcome the Year of the Fire Horse, we explore what its bold, passionate energy represents and how it can inspire us to move fearlessly toward our goals. What does this fast-moving year mean for your zodiac sign, and how can you harness its momentum to chase your dreams? Blending culture, reflection, and a bit of fun, tune in as we step into the new year with courage, clarity, and purpose.

Wrapping up our conversation with Harry Swart, he talks about the fire that’s been driving him and how, as he’s gotten older, he feels a stronger urgency to go after his dream. That hunger has made him more fearless, but it’s also led him to overdo it at times, pushing his voice past its limits and teaching him that chasing a dream still requires discipline and self-care. One big question Harry tackles in today’s episode is how much do buskers actually make in Taiwan? He also clears up common misconceptions that busking is either effortless cash or a sign of failure. In reality, it’s hard work, unpredictable, and deeply skill-building. Most importantly, he explains why busking is such a powerful starting point for musicians.  For Harry, busking isn’t just about income. It’s a training ground, exposure, and proof that he’s actively building his dream — one performance at a time. Tune in to hear Harry’s honest reflections on ambition, money, and why busking might just be the most underrated starting point for chasing your dream.

Continuing our conversation with musician Harry Swart, we zoom in on the nuts and bolts of busking in Taiwan. Harry originally came to Taiwan as an English teacher but later made the bold decision to pursue music full-time by building his career one street performance at a time. Beyond making music on the streets, what does it actually take to perform here? Today, Harry walks us through the practical realities — from permits and regulations to choosing the right time and place to set up. He also shares some of his positive experiences busking in Taiwan, including the small moments with strangers that remind him why he chose this path. If you’ve ever been curious about street performing, or you’re a musician thinking about trying busking yourself, Harry also offers practical tips on how to find a good spot, connect with passersby, and build confidence as a performer. Tune in to get a grounded, honest look at what life as a busking musician in Taiwan really feels like. 

Welcome back to Formosa Dream Chasers. In part two of our conversation with Harry Swart — musician, busker, and longtime Taiwan resident — we dig deeper into the dream he once thought was impossible. Harry shares that growing up, he always imagined what it might be like to make a living as a singer and musician. But at the time, it felt more like a pipe dream than a real possibility. Surrounded by other talented people, he didn’t see his own voice as anything special. Add to that his struggles with self-image and difficult family relationships - believing in himself felt almost out of reach. If you’ve ever felt like your dream was too unrealistic, or that you weren’t “good enough” to chase it, Harry’s story in part two is a powerful reminder that this is simply not true. As he shares the words of American writer Joseph Campbell that guided him, “Follow your bliss, and the universe will open doors for you where there were only walls.” - learn what Harry had to change to make his dreams one step closer to reality.

What does it mean to chase a dream—one street corner at a time? In this episode of Formosa Dream Chasers, we meet Harry Swart, a street performer and musician who has turned public spaces into stages and everyday passersby into audiences. Harry, who is also an English teacher, shares how his journey to Taiwan and his busking career began. What led him to perform on the streets, and what are the realities, both rewarding and challenging, of making a living through live, unfiltered performance? It’s a candid look at what it means to connect with people through music with no spotlight required. Tune in to hear Harry’s story and discover how music can transform not just a place, but the people who pass through it.

Continuing a special Formosa Dream Chasers episode, Mary Anne shares her personal story of building a life in Taiwan—this time through a deeply reflective and intimate letter to her past self. Picking up from the challenges shared last week, this episode explores the sacrifices and compromises that often come with life abroad. And at the heart of this episode is a letter Mary Anne wrote, not just for her younger self, but for anyone who has ever felt tired of chasing goals while being afraid to stop. It’s a reminder that growth isn’t linear, that rest is just as important as building, and that success doesn’t need to look impressive to be meaningful. It's a grounding and honest listen for anyone whose dreams feel paused, reshaped, or quietly evolving, so don't forget to tune in.

In this deeply personal solo episode of Formosa Dream Chasers, Mary Anne revisits her own Taiwan immigration story, including the much messier, more human reality that unfolded afterward. From the carefully written plans to the quiet moments of burnout, detours, and dreams put on pause, she reflects on how her understanding of success and “making it” has changed over time. This episode explores what happens when life abroad doesn’t follow the script you imagined—and why that doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Tune in for a reflective episode that speaks to anyone who’s ever wanted to start a new life far from home.

As 2025 comes to a close, Mary Anne sits down with her good friend Michelle Capistrano for an honest and heartfelt catch-up. Together, they look back on the year that was, share their New Year’s resolutions, and talk about why setting realistic intentions matters more than chasing perfection. From gratitude for the people who’ve supported them, to prioritizing health and learning to enjoy the journey, the conversation flows into bucket lists, travel dreams, and personal growth. It’s a reflective chat on navigating life—and the year ahead—as we step into 2026 together.

We continue our chat with Hashlaey Bermudez as we dive deeper into her life in Taiwan beyond the classroom. In this episode, she reflects on the key differences between the education systems and work cultures of Taiwan and Honduras, sharing what surprised her most along the way. From navigating work opportunities to finding her footing in a new industry, she opens up about the challenges of building a career far from home and the lessons she’s learned along the way.  Don’t miss this honest and relatable conversation for anyone considering studying or working in Taiwan.

In this episode of Formosa Dream Chasers, we speak with Hashlaey Bermudez, a Honduran student who came to Taiwan to pursue Fashion Management at Ming Chuan University. Hashlaey shares what motivated her to study abroad, why Taiwan became her chosen destination, and her first impressions upon arriving—from navigating a new culture and language to adjusting to life far from home. Want to know what it’s really like to study and live in Taiwan as a foreigner? Join us and tune in to how Hashlaey’s journey unfolds.

What does it really take to build a life in Taiwan? We continue our conversation with Professor Ilon Huang, a German language lecturer at National Chengchi University and Soochow University, in part 2  of Formosa Dream Chasers, as he shares his journey of more than 25 years in Taiwan. After exploring his early days as a Mandarin student and his dual cultural identity last week, this episode goes even deeper. Ilon reflects on the cultural adjustments to his life here, the lessons he learned along the way, and how his work at Radio Taiwan International became a meaningful part of his connection to Taiwan. He also shares heartfelt advice for newcomers hoping to carve out their own path on the island. Tune in to part 2 of our interview to hear how Ilon’s journey in Taiwan grew from a temporary stay into a place he now calls home.

In this episode of Formosa Dream Chasers, we sit down with Ilon Huang who shares how his 25-year journey in Taiwan began with the simple step of coming here to study Mandarin. What started as a language-learning adventure gradually unfolded into a deeply rooted life on this island he now calls home. Today, Ilon is a German language lecturer at National Chengchi University and Soochow University, where he inspires students through both language and intercultural understanding. You might also recognize his voice as Ilon is a familiar presence on Radio Taiwan International’s German service, where he hosts programs that bridge Taiwan and German-speaking audiences. In our conversation, Ilon reflects on the early days of adjusting to life in Taiwan and what is was like as his path evolved from language learner to a working professional. Join us as we explore what it truly means to discover your dreams on Formosa.

In today’s episode, writer and Bandung Pop Darlings author Irfan Muhammad, takes a more reflective look at the life he’s built here in Taiwan—from comparing the media and entertainment industries between Taiwan and Indonesia to the life of migrant workers and South East Asians in this country. In this final installment, Irfan also shares thoughtful advice for foreign students and musicians hoping to make their own mark, drawing from his experiences navigating culture, community, and creativity. Stay with us for this final chapter of Irfan’s journey and hear what he’s learned along the way. ps. If you're curious about Irfan's music recommendation Rub of Rub, you can check out their IG here. 

Last week, we sat down with writer and Bandung Pop Darlings author Irfan Muhammad to trace the beginnings of his journey from Indonesia, where we learned how stepping away from a journalism career to pursue further studies opened the door to a new life in Taiwan. Today's episode continues with Irfan highlighting the diverse Indonesian communities living in Taiwan, the different perspectives they bring, and how their experiences influence the narratives they connect with. He also reflects on the work he’s doing to bridge Indonesian and Taiwanese cultures—amplifying voices, building understanding, and creating space for shared stories. Join us as we continue the conversation with Irfan Muhammad.

In this episode of Formosa Dream Chasers, we sit down with writer and Bandung Pop Darlings author Irfan Muhammad to trace the journey that brought him from Indonesia all the way to Taiwan. Now, having lived here for nearly four years, Irfan looks back on the ideas and impressions he and many Indonesians have about Taiwan long before seeing it for themselves. He shares what pushed him to take that big leap, pack his bags, and start a new life in a foreign country. His path is full of unexpected twists, and Irfan opens up about how each one shaped the person and storyteller he is today. Curious about what drives someone to chase a dream abroad? Tune in to today’s episode and find out. 

In last week's episode, we heard some amazing stories of resilience and courage from people who took the leap to build a new life abroad. This time, we’re continuing that journey with more inspiring voices from guests who came to Taiwan as students. From culture shock to connection, our guests share how studying abroad can be both a challenge, a chance to reinvent yourself, and an opportunity to build connections. Tune in to this special episode where we highlight the stories from those who dared to chase their dreams far from home.

Over the past two years, I’ve had the amazing privilege of chatting with so many people who have worked hard to pursue their dreams — each with their own story of courage, change, and growth. In many of our episodes, we’ve interviewed people who relocated as part of their journey. As we celebrate reaching 100 episodes, we’re looking back at some of those conversations to revisit the lessons our guests have shared — lessons that can help anyone thinking about moving abroad for studies, work, or a fresh start in a new country. From learning to adapt to a different culture, to finding community, to dealing with homesickness — these are stories that remind us just how resilient people can be when they step outside their comfort zones. So whether you’re already living abroad, planning to make the move, or just curious about what that journey looks like, this episode’s for you.

We’ve come a long way with Rhea Leorag these past two episodes — from her experiences finding her place in Taiwan and Seoul, to the insights she’s gained from living in both countries. When we first met Rhea, she was pursuing her International Master’s in Cultural and Creative Industries at the Taipei National University of the Arts (TNUA). Later, she joined an exchange program in Seoul at the Korea National University of Arts, where she studied under the Department of Musicology, focusing on music research. A fellow Filipino, Rhea is the Digital Marketing Manager for the Asia-Pacific region at ONErpm. Through her work, Rhea not only promotes her artists’ music but also helps their stories reach wider audiences across major platforms like Spotify and YouTube. Now, in this final part, Rhea opens up about the life lessons she’s gained along the way. Tune in for this inspiring conclusion as Rhea reflects on her journey — one that’s all about growth, purpose, and staying true to your passion no matter where it takes you.

Last week, we caught up with fellow Filipino Rhea Leorag, who’s been charting her own path across cultures — from Manila to Taipei to Seoul. We learned how studying in both Taiwan and South Korea broadened Rhea's view of the world — especially through the lens of music. Today, we dive deeper into Rhea’s time in South Korea — this time, turning the spotlight on the country’s dynamic music scene. She shares what stood out to her from the inside and also offers her insights on the music industries in Taiwan, South Korea, and, of course, the Philippines. Listen in as Rhea gives us her inside take on South Korea’s vibrant music scene and what sets it apart from the rest of the world.

In this episode, we reconnect with Rhea Leorag, a fellow Filipino whose journey has taken her from Manila to Taipei and Seoul — all in pursuit of learning, growth, and music. Rhea recently earned her Master’s degree in Cultural and Creative Industries from the Taipei National University of the Arts, with part of her studies spent in South Korea through an exchange program at the Korea National University of Arts. Her time in both countries gave her a front-row seat to two vibrant music scenes — each with its own rhythm, culture, and lessons. Tune in as Rhea shares what it was like navigating student life abroad, the differences between Taiwan and Korea’s learning environments, and what her takeaways were from these experiences. It’s a story of chasing knowledge, crossing borders, and finding your beat in unexpected places - an episode you don't want to miss!

David Perez is back for the third and final part of his story on Formosa Dream Chasers! In earlier episodes, we heard how his brother's motorcycle accident pushed him to start a new chapter in Taiwan with their Mexican food business. As we learned more about David's start in the entertainment industry, we also discovered the many struggles he overcame to build his career. This time, we dig deeper into David’s mindset and discover how resilience, risk-taking, and staying true to himself have helped him face challenges head-on. His journey shows that chasing your dreams is never a straight path, but with belief and vision, it can lead to something greater than you ever imagined.

David Perez returns for the second part of his story! This time, we join him in the spotlight as we learn what it is like to step onto the stage here in Taiwan. Beyond running a Mexican food business and dealing with day-to-day challenges of life, David talks about facing down stage fright, finding ways to connect with his audiences, and discovering just how powerful laughter can be. In this episode, he shares the highs and lows of performing in a language different from his own, including one unforgettable, bittersweet moment that became a true turning point in his journey as an entertainer. It’s a conversation about vulnerability, perseverance, and the magic that happens when one chases after one's dreams. Listen in to find out more!

David Perez is back on Formosa Dream Chasers! You might remember him from our earlier episode with his brother Ivan, when they shared how a life-changing accident sparked the idea for their Mexican restaurant in Taiwan. But that was just the beginning of David’s story. Beyond running a Mexican food business, David is also an actor and comedian, bringing energy and laughter to audiences here in Taiwan. In this episode, we dive into that journey: how David turned obstacles into opportunities, what it’s like to break into Taiwan’s entertainment scene, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.  Curious about what it's like to work in Taiwan's entertainment industry? Then tune in to find out! By the way, if you missed out on the earlier episode of David and his brother Ivan, you can tune in to it here: https://podcasts.apple.com/tw/podcast/the-recipe-for-resilience-transforming-pain-through/id1750621939?i=1000716288406

Last week, we sat down with Michelle Chiang (whom you may know as the host of Geek Out! here at Rti) as she put on her entrepreneur’s hat and joined us as the founder of Phoenix Dice. In the previous episode, we learned how her love of dice collecting grew into a thriving business. Today, we dive deeper into her journey—exploring the challenges of running a niche business in a shifting global market and the importance of community support. Michelle also opens up about sustainability efforts, unforgettable customer stories, and the resilience it takes to keep her dream rolling, even through tough times like COVID-19 and current U.S. trade policies. Join us for this inspiring continuation of Michelle’s story!

Step into the world of gaming with the founder of Phoenix Dice in today's episode! While you might know her as the host of Geek Out! (one of our other programs at Rti), Michelle puts on her entrepreneur’s hat to share how she went from being an avid dice collector to becoming a business owner. From its humble beginnings to building a brand that resonates with players around the world, Phoenix Dice is more than just rolling numbers—it’s about passion, imagination, and community. Tune in to learn more about Michelle's journey from collector to creator, and how every roll of the dice tells a story of passion and perseverance.

Over the past two episodes, we’ve been following the inspiring journey of Fr. Joyalito “Joy” Tajonera, a Maryknoll priest who has devoted more than two decades to serving Taiwan’s migrant and new immigrant communities. In Part 1, Fr. Joy talked about his early life, his calling to the priesthood, and how his first assignment in Taiwan helped shape his mission. In Part 2, we shifted the focus to the Ugnayan Center and how it grew from a small church space into a lifeline for migrants - living up to its name, Ugnayan, the Filipino word for “connections,” by bringing together migrants, new immigrants, and even different faith communities. In this final part, we’ll hear what makes the Ugnayan Center stand out among other shelters, and discover Fr. Joy’s hopes and dreams for its future. He’ll also leave us with a heartfelt message for anyone searching for their own calling or wondering how to live a life of purpose. Tune in to continue our conversation with Fr. Joy.

In our last episode, we met Fr. Joyalito “Joy” Tajonera, a Maryknoll priest who shared his journey from the Philippines to the U.S., and how his calling to the priesthood was shaped by missionaries who walked alongside the marginalized. He also opened up about his first assignment in Taiwan—where he experienced culture shock, language struggles, and the unexpected discovery of Taiwan’s vibrant migrant community. In this episode, we turn to the Ugnayan Center - a lifeline for migrants in Taiwan. At its heart is the word "ugnayan", which means “connections” in Filipino. From offering spiritual support and shelter to providing training and advocacy, the Ugnayan Center reflects Fr. Joy’s mission to build bridges across cultures and communities. So do tune in to catch the full conversation!

Dreams take on many shapes and forms, and today’s conversation with Fr. Joyalito “Joy” Tajonera is a perfect example of that.  Fr. Joy is a Filipino-American Catholic priest whose journey has taken him from the Philippines to the heart of Taiwan’s migrant communities. With warmth and a deep sense of purpose, Fr. Joy shares how his early life and spiritual calling led him to devote his ministry to serving others. From his childhood roots to the moment he first felt called to the priesthood, you’ll hear the story of a man whose dream is not just his own, but one that uplifts and connects countless lives.  Listen in as we trace the remarkable path of a man whose dream is about building bridges and nurturing humanity.

On today’s episode we learn that Ching-en Chiou is trading the Rti studio for the streets of Bangkok!  Inspired by his work at Rti, he’s heading to Chulaongkorn University for a one-year Master's in International Development.  Ready to put his passion into action, Ching-en talks about tackling global challenges - setting his sights on immigration issues and gender inequality. Along the way, he’s picking up Thai, soaking in new cultures, and hopes to help put Taiwan on the map.  Listen in as Ching-en shares how he’s chasing his dreams to make change happen around the world!

Today’s episode features Pei Fang-tsao (裴芳草), also known as Thao—a former journalist from Vietnam who made the bold decision to study in Taiwan in pursuit of her dreams. She’s now gaining hands-on experience as an intern with RTI’s English service! With her journalistic background, Thao offers valuable insights into the evolving media landscape in Vietnam—from issues of press freedom to current media trends—and how it all compares to what she’s observed here in Taiwan. Join us as we explore what inspired Thao’s journey, what she’s discovered along the way, and how her experiences reflect the bigger picture of cross-cultural exchange, resilience, and reinvention.

In Part 2 of our conversation, Dr. Tzeng Yi-shuo, Associate Research Fellow at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, explores how artificial intelligence could be weaponized to undermine democratic institutions. From deepfakes to algorithmic manipulation, he outlines the potential threats posed by AI-driven disinformation campaigns—and offers practical strategies to help societies respond.

Dr. Tzeng Yi-shuo, Associate Research Fellow at the Institute for National Defense and Security Research, joins us to explore the growing challenges of misinformation and disinformation in today’s AI-driven digital landscape. He shares valuable insights on how these threats are evolving and what societies can do to build resilience in the face of information warfare.

In the final part of our conversation with Taiwanese metal artist Johnny Chen, he and his manager reflect on their experience collaborating on government-funded art projects and offer valuable advice 

In today’s episode, we continue our conversation with renowned metal artist Johnny Chen (陳柏豪). After sharing how his journey began with illustration, Johnny opens up about how his Taiwanese roots help shape the pieces he creates. We explore the heart of his creative process: where inspiration comes from, how he tackles mistakes, and what it means to turn culture into form.  Plus, Johnny offers candid insights into Taiwan’s evolving art scene, the challenges new artists face, and the growing role of government in supporting the arts. Stay with us as we trace the path artists take—from that first spark of inspiration to the real-life challenges of navigating Taiwan’s vibrant art scene.

Are you drawn to art galleries and creative spaces? Ever wondered what it’s like to pursue a full-time art career in Taiwan? This week, we sit down with Johnny Chen, a Taiwanese metal artist who began his artistic journey in graphic design and later honed his craft in Bangkok. Johnny shares what inspired him to follow his passion and how he transitioned into metal art. Join us for a candid conversation about creativity, cultural influence, and Taiwan's evolving art scene.

In Part 2 of our special series Truth Under Siege, we shift from exposing the dangers of disinformation to exploring how we can fight back. What tools do we have to protect the truth — and who’s leading the charge? From the Journalism Trust Initiative to the World Press Freedom Index, we highlight global efforts that defend reliable journalism and empower everyday people to think critically and share information responsibly. When trust in information breaks down, we all lose — but when we support systems that promote transparency and truth, we build a stronger foundation for dreams to flourish. Tune in to find out how you can be part of the movement to protect truth in an age of distortion.

Welcome to Formosa Dream Chasers — a show where we celebrate the journeys of people turning their dreams into reality. But it is important to remember that none of that would be possible without a society where ideas can be freely shared and truth can be told.  In this special episode, we explore how threats to press freedom and rising disinformation aren’t just political issues — they corrode the space where dreams live and silence real voices. When truth is under siege, so is our ability to dream, to speak, and to create. Join us as we look into the frontlines of a new kind of conflict - what happens when the ability to access trustworthy news is under siege, when facts are manipulated, and dialogue breaks down. Welcome to a special Formosa Dream Chasers episode called Truth Under Siege.

This is the last part of our conversation with Michael Michael Huang, co-founder of the Li-ze Community School. He continues by sharing more about another meaningful project — a samban-building initiative that helped rebuild the ethnic memories of local indigenous tribes. Michael also shares a summer school he's been involved in to promote and educate people about the indigenous Kavalan people's history and culture. For more information, please visit: https://www.facebook.com/photo/?fbid=667907496220904&set=a.141597755518550 

In his reflections on founding the Li-ze Community School in Yilan, Michael Huang sheds light on the multifaceted challenges he and his team encountered. Beyond the school itself, Michael referenced the Real-Free Market—a grassroots initiative that originally sparked his commitment to community-based change. 

Michael Huang, co-founder of the Li-ze Community School, joins us this week to share his journey in developing community-based educational programs in Yilan County. He talks about his move to his father's hometown "Ritakkan" of Yilan and how he began working in environmental education and preserving local history.