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Exploring Mongolian Culture with Na

Oct 18, 2024

Lecture Notes: Dece Eding Backwards Podcast

Hosts and Introduction

  • Host: Tunde (Ton Got Jokes, Chocolate Poppy)
  • Co-host: Mr. L.A. (T)
  • Special guest: Na (creative director, weed enthusiast, designer, barber) from Mongolia

Guest Introduction

  • Na is a Mongolian native, creative director, and barber
  • New to America, been here for 9 years
  • Discusses the cultural significance of Mongolia

Mongolian Culture

  • Mongolia's distinct cultural traits, focused on respect and honor
  • Hat and belt traditions: Carry a man's energy
    • Never place a hat upside down
    • Beliefs stem from ancestors, including Genghis Khan
  • Common misconception: Mongolia as part of China
    • Mongolia is independent and culturally distinct

Genghis Khan

  • Historical and cultural hero in Mongolia
  • Believed in the sky (father) and earth (mother) as part of spiritual beliefs

Life in Mongolia

  • Economy: Limited, reliant on mining (gold, copper, silver)
  • Lifestyle: Community-oriented, strong cultural traditions

Experience in the USA

  • Moved initially for education, following his sister
  • Attended college in North Dakota and Denver
  • Involved in the music scene in Kansas City

Influence of Hip-Hop and Basketball

  • Basketball and hip-hop as major cultural influences
  • Learned English through American music and television
  • Hip-hop's international reach, including Wu-Tang Clan

Challenges and Cultural Exchange

  • Na shares Mongolian customs, such as the blue birthmark
  • Experience of cultural exchange and adaptation in the USA

Professional Life

  • Barber experience and the art of cutting hair
  • Entrepreneurial ventures in creative directing and fashion
  • Collaborative work in music and community-building

Conclusion

  • Na's story highlights the blend of Mongolian and American cultures
  • Plans to continue expanding his creative and entrepreneurial efforts
  • Future aspirations: Further cultural exchange and community impact

Key Takeaways

  • Mongolian culture is rich and distinct, often misunderstood
  • Genghis Khan plays a significant role in cultural identity
  • Hip-hop and basketball serve as cultural bridges between Mongolia and the USA
  • Na's journey embodies the challenges and opportunities of cultural adaptation.