MINT TALKS

Dr. Raj Sachdej joins us at the Minty Fresh Studio to discuss mental health and his project on Guam. The good doctor is currently doing his residency at the George Washington, School of Medicine in New York and is a former "LIFER" from St. John's School (Guam). Join us as we discuss various topics along with stigmas that have long plagued the mental health community.  The returning "son of Guam" is doing a research project to find out more about how to service mental health challenges on our island. You can volunteer to assist his research study by contacting him for more details at +671-487-1600 or email him at mentalhealthgu@gwu.edu. Study dates are April 4-15, 2022. ## BIO: While in medical school in Portland, OR, Raj held various leadership positions including Student Council President. Raj has also received recognition throughout his academic career for leadership, professionalism, and the promotion of diversity and inclusion, and was elected into the Gold Humanism Honor Society. Raj is a recipient of the American Psychiatric Association's SAMHSA Minority Fellowship for 2020-2021 for which he aims to explore the psychiatric needs of his Pacific hometown of Guam. In the residency program, Raj has been an active member of the Wellness Committee that aims to bolster the program's sense of wellbeing and community. Studio Notes: Recorded live April 05, 2022

The good doctor Luan Nguyen, M.D. joins Kaz in the Minty Fresh medical studio to discuss life, health and medical advances to help us live longer, happier lives. Dr. Nguyen humanizes health care treatment with a thoughtful and considerate approach, balancing both mental and physical health in mind. Grab a chair, indulge in some fine beverage and listen up - because the doctor is making a house call on Mint Talks! -- Dr. Luan Nguyen completed his undergraduate studies at the University of Maryland, College Park with a major in biology and competed in Division I tennis for the Terrapins. He graduated from Spartan medical school and finished his family medicine residency at Mount Carmel Health System in Ohio. After residency, he received additional training in aesthetic medicine. Dr. Luan Nguyen is Board Certified in both Family Medicine and Aesthetic Medicine. A Guam native, Dr. Nguyen returned home in hopes to bring new treatments to Guam such as functional dry needling, platelet rich plasma injections, prolozone, nutritional therapy, and NAET. He was the first physician on Guam to inject platelet rich plasma into a knee joint with implementation of sports medicine protocols. However, to achieve the best possible results, he needed to work closely with physical therapists. Naturally, this lead to the opening of Newgen, Guam’s Integrated Wellness Center, addressing rehabilitation, peak performance, fitness and nutrition. -- Studio Notes: Recorded 11.10.2021

Frank the Crank Camacho enters the Minty Fresh cage to talk fight, life and fatherhood. The Marianas’s very own UFC fighter and secret-not-so-secret scratch golfer also shares his views on COVID vaccination, treatments and the general stigma that we need to defeat to lead healthier, longer lives. Grab some popcorn, break out the Battleship board game and let's get ready for battle with Frank Camacho on Mint Talks! Studio Notes: Recorded on 04.23.2021

Boris Hertslet, PMBA, Program Manager, (Guam Procurement Technical Assistance Center or PTAC), School of Business & Public Administration, University of Guam, joins Kaz in the Minty Fresh Studio to catch up as old friends, and to update us all on how PTAC can help with your next business interest with the Federal government. So light a cigar, pour yourself a nice glass of German beer and snuggle up... It's another quality episode of Mint Talks with Boris Hertslet. Studio Notes: Originally recorded in studio on 04/06/2021 You can reach Boris with any PTAC questions at https://gu.linkedin.com/in/guamptac

Guam Department of Agriculture's Territorial Veterinarian of 16 years, Dr. Tom Pool, joins us in the Minty Fresh studio to discuss animal control, feral pigs, animal/human disease outbreaks — such as the COVID pandemic and how it all works (or doesn't).  The good doctor, discusses solutions to the local boonie dog problem, and breaks down the complicated story behind the Corona virus, vaccinations and all the science behind it. I also ask him what's the craziest shit he's encountered in all his years as a veterinarian... you won't want to miss his answer! Yikes!! Dr. Pool also has some sage advice on how to live a happy life... So take off your clothes, put on the hospital robe and grab a drink while you wait for the doctor to arrive. I'm no doctor, but HE is — so listen carefully you just might learn something! Studio Notes: Episode 18 Originally recorded 04/30/2021 - I purposely delayed this release to allow proper time for news of the vaccine and other things COVID related to settle down. As you can see, the session has aged well.

S2/E6 - Show 26 The man, the myth, the legend — Bob "The Gator" Coldeen joins the TIS boys in-studio for a special edition of the show. The gang talks the bang-bang-coconut gang stuff, plus the ol' Gator shares a bit of his backstory on how be came a part of CNMI sports history. So grab a cold one, have a seat and enjoy the nonsense known throughout the world as ... THIS - IS - SPORTS! Ummmmbeee! Studio Notes: Originally recorded November 9, 2022

SE2 / E5 Show 25 Ben "White Cheddar" Ferguson joins the TIS boys in the Minty Sports Studio for this long-ass, but quite enjoyable episode! Studio Notes: Originally recorded October 6, 2022

We have in the Minty Fresh Studio, the wise and profound Simon Sanchez! The former Guam senator, and candidate for Lt. Governor joins us to discuss his current role as a commissioner of the Consolidated Commission on Utilities (CCU) and how this non-political body helps to keep our lights and water running clean.  Simon also shares personal stories on life's ups and downs and even in-betweens ... Life is never easy, but Simon shares his late grandson's profound perspective on the process known as "living" — that it is a privilege. Grab an ice cold glass of tap water and turn on the lights — Zappp you’ve been Simonized! Studio Notes: Recorded 11.01.2022

Guam's 9th duly elected governor, Lourdes "Lou" Leon Guerrero joins us in the Minty Fresh Studio to speak candidly about herself, her administration and what keeps her going through the ups and downs of 'governing' the U.S. Territory of Guam. The island's first female governor, shares her insight on dealing with the pandemic, her decision making process and her next 'big' challenge should she win a second term in office.  Forever to be known as Guam's CEO of the PANDEMIC, "The Gov" reflects on her critics and stands firm on her decisions throughout the public emergency. She also was gracious to open up about her private life and even goes as far as choosing her favorite child!  Love her or hate her, the one thing you can't do, is ignore her — so grab a cold one, sit back and let's chat with the Magahaga herself on Mint Talks!   Studio Notes: We only had a 45 minute window with the Governor with her busy schedule of duty and seeking re-election, there's definitely more to talk about and explore... so consider this part-one of many more interviews to come.   Recorded on 10.25.2022

My good friend and FASHIONISTA — Norm Analista stopped by the Minty Fresh Studio to share his journey as lifelong marketer and how he has reinvented himself as a fashion designer, entrepreneur and social media influencer.  Norm's designs are unique in the market and getting attention from internet influencers from all around the world.  Grab a smooth bourbon, sit back and join us as we discuss life, design and fashion on Mint Talks! Find Norman and his designs at: https://www.analistaandco.com Studio Notes: Originally recorded 05/17/2022

The one and only Ray Gibson stopped by to chat about life, family and politics (just a little) ... and Johnny Depp (skip to 11:35 mins to jump over the intro). One of Guam's most familiar voice and talk radio icon, Ray cracks open a few cold ones with us, as he shares life's ups and downs and surprising full-circle moments. The controversial and highly entertaining host of The Ray Gibson Show joins us in the Minty Fresh Studio to give a candid and thoughtful take on his most favorite subject — himself!  So pour some awesome sauce, sit back and enter the Gibson Zone!  Studio Notes: Originally recorded 05/20/2022

I welcome my friend Dr. Bob of Guam Pet Hospital to the Minty Fresh Studio to talk tequila, cigars, pets and life's quirky twists and turns! Dr. Bob owns and operates his own pet hospital on Guam and can be reached at dvmguam.com or call him at 671-682-8890!  Join us for this epic 3 hour chat. Grab yourself a smooth tequila to sip on and light up a stick and enjoy the conversation. Studio Notes: Originally recorded on 06.01.2022

S2.E4 - Show 24 "JT is Baseball Thor!" The boys are back and at it again! This episode - they go all-in on the MLB and make their first week's prediction for the NFL! LIV vs. PGA, local sports and more! Studio Notes: Recorded 09.08.2022

The TIS gang gets a late start, but finishes strong! In-studio guest Brad "The Maker" Kloppenberg joins us and slays with his deep knowledge of all things sports! It's a fun and informative show with lots of drinking and puffing (cigars!) datsssss for sure! Apologies to Brad and our audience for the slight audio problems early in the show. We blame Cramer.  Studio Notes: Recorded 08.18.2022

The TIS boys are back for their second season with this all-new show! This episode is dedicated to Vin Scully and the Doctor’s pop - Mr. Jesus Rabago. May both good men Rest In Peace. Studio Notes: Recorded 08.09.2022

Season 2, episode 1 (show #21) has dropped! Guest Chris "Nelly" Nelson of Marianas Trekking, joins the TIS gang for some recap on the Mini-Pacific Games in Saipan, plus all things sports. Studio Notes: Originally recorded 07.19.2022 Check out Nelly's cool biz at https://www.marianastrekking.com

The Minty Fresh Studio welcomes two very special guest from our neighboring island - the great Republic of Palau. Kiblas Saoladaob, Director of the Bureau of Cultural and Historical Preservation, and McMichael Mutok Jr., Registrar at the Division of Archaeology Bureau of Cultural and Historical Preservation discuss their recent visit to Guam and how Palau is modernizing using technology to create a better, more efficient workflow between the Government and private sector. This episode also had the pleasure of speaking to the Minister of the Ministry of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development — Mr. Ngiraibelas Tmetuchl (via call-in). About the Minister of the Ministry of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism and Development We are the Ministry of Human Resources, Culture, Tourism, and Development—also known as MHRTCD. We recognize that our people and culture are our most valuable assets. We aspire to ensure Palauans and the youth of Palau are accorded the best opportunities to succeed in the areas of tourism, the arts and business development. We are here to build a confident and resilient Palau and what that means is a fulfilled and engaged people with a vibrant community living in a cohesive and caring society. Studio Notes: Originally recorded on 05/27/22

Former Guam resident, Richard Chou joins Kaz in the Minty Fresh studio via ZOOM. The former VP of Talent at Bellator, and now the VP of North America for Wimp 2 Warrior, opens up about life, fatherhood and his amazing journey as a kid from a small island (Guam) going on to work with world famous professional fighters on the big stages around the world. These former St. John's Knights, share some laughs and insight together on what really matters in the ring or out, and how the pandemic has only strengthened their resolve to remain disciplined with both work and family life, so that one doesn't tap-out. Go on, pour yourself a glass of award-winning Kavalan (if you're lucky enough to have one), and light up a toasty cigar and join these proud papa-bears as they mint something together. Studio Notes: Episode 17 Originally recorded 12/21/2020

The former General Manager of the Guam Visitors Bureau (GVB) and current Business Development Director at American President Line (APL), Karl Pangelinan visits us at the Minty Fresh Studios to drop some sports trash talk and share his year in review of a shitty 2020.  Guam's Golfer-At-Large, also drops some thoughts on why Guam's approach to cannabis is Malafunkshun, and what we ought to do to increase the island's economic chances in a pandemic obsessed world. So go on, pour yourself a glass of Toki-Toki, light up a cigar (or a joint) and join us for an epic session of shooting the shit. Studio Notes: Episode 16 Originally recorded 12/28/2020

They say some things get better with age. If we are talking about bourbon and this recording from last year November (2020), then we wholeheartedly agree! Recently minted, Digital Engagement Manager of the Governor's Office of Guam, Logan Reyes joins Kaz in the studio for a warm and open discussion on life. At the time of this recording, Logan was the freshman host of the "Break Down" radio talk show on News Talk K57... I invited Logan to update me on his evolution as a person and lessons learned as a first year radio talk show host. We talk candidly about local politics, self-reflection, love vs. like and marriage... the good kind! So grab a drink and a barstool and join us in our virtual bar room — as we go down memory lane and then some, on this episode of Mint Talks! Studio Notes:  Episode 15 Originally recorded 11/30/2020