Mabuhay! 🎉
The Half a Nice Day duo is shaking things up with a fresh new format—part podcast, part vlog, all fun!
Join Joshua and Janine as they take listeners (and viewers!) along on their unforgettable trip to El Nido, Palawan—where white-sand beaches, turquoise waters, and jaw-dropping limestone cliffs set the scene for an epic getaway.
The first half is classic Half a Nice Day banter, with the hosts sharing their travel stories, mishaps, and favorite moments. Then, it's time to dive into the vlog, featuring:
📍 A mouthwatering feast at Taas Restaurant, famous for its next-level flavors
🏝️ Island-hopping adventures with Tripido Travel, where they explored El Nido’s stunning lagoons
🌅 A dreamy stay at Colibris Corner, offering unreal views of Vanilla Beach’s natural beauty
✨ And so much more!
This trip was one for the books, and they can’t wait to bring you along for the ride!
"Filipinos give of themselves, of their time, their money, their love to others. They do and continue to do what needs to be done to survive." – Anthony Bourdain
Got questions, comments, or just want to say hi? Email halfanicedayshow@gmail.com or DM @HalfANiceDayPodcast on Instagram!
📩 Reach out via Google Forms: https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
Happy New Year to all our listeners! 🎉
We’re kicking off 2025 with an exciting episode featuring two amazing guests, Umer (@umernomankhan) and Alina (@alinahxyat)!
You might already recognize this dynamic duo from your social media feeds. They’re YouTubers, content creators, and young entrepreneurs who run Nova Studios (@novastudios.ae), a creative ad agency dedicated to helping businesses grow with powerful creative solutions and strategic marketing.
In this episode, we dive deep into their inspiring journey:
🎥 Umer’s beginnings on YouTube and his evolution as a content creator.
🌍 Alina’s unique experience of being both Pakistani and Russian, and her thoughts on identity.
✨ The heartfelt (and hilarious) story of how they met online – with a twist that involves 50 "wingmen."
We also explore their creative process, including how a small 3% tweak to an idea can turn it into something extraordinary. Plus, they share insights on navigating mental health while juggling creativity and entrepreneurship.
And of course, we couldn’t kick off the year without chatting about New Year’s resolutions and how they approach setting goals for the year ahead.
Whether you’re a content creator, entrepreneur, or just curious about the creative process, this episode has something for everyone. We promise plenty of laughs, inspiration, and actionable insights!
Follow and support Umer and Alina on their socials:
Umer:
- Instagram: @umernomankhan
- YouTube: youtube.com/@umernoman
- Nova Studios: @novastudios.ae
Alina:
- Instagram: @alinahxyat
- Nova Studios: @novastudios.ae
- YouTube: youtube.com/@alinahayat
Got questions, comments, or handy advice? Reach out to us at halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, connect with us on Instagram at @HalfANiceDayPodcast, or submit your questions through our Google Forms link.
Tune in as the duo sit down and enjoy the insightful discussion with Abubakr Sajith!
This week, we’re joined by Abubakr Sajith (@bbaakkrrr), one of the creative forces behind the Dollar Diaries podcast—a fast-growing show that explores the intersections of personal life, entrepreneurship, careers, and lifestyle, all through the lens of the almighty dollar.
As one of eight dynamic minds behind the Dollar Diaries, Abubakr shares the story of the inception of their podcast and its mission to resonate with young adults in the UAE. Together, we delve into what it’s like navigating the ever-evolving landscape of work and personal life as a Gen Z professional in Dubai. Abubakr also offers unique insights into the future of work, gleaned from conversations with top-level executives and high-profile guests.
Through these discussions, we explore topics like Gen Z’s place in the workplace, the current job market, and the ongoing debate around work-life balance—all with a touch of humor and relatability.
Whether you’re a young adult finding your footing in a bustling city or someone eager to learn from an insider who speaks with industry leaders, this episode has something for everyone.
Got questions, comments, or HANDy advice? Reach out to us at halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, connect on Instagram at @HalfANiceDayPodcast, or submit your questions via our Google Forms link.
In this entertaining episode, stand-up comedian Adi Thomas joins the show, bringing his signature high energy and dynamic stage presence that always leaves audiences wanting more.
Adi (@adithomas__) celebrates a major milestone as he marks three years in the world of stand-up comedy. But that's not all—he's also an improviser, emcee, and the frontman of the rock band "Lunic."
In this episode, Adi shares his unique journey of growing up in Abu Dhabi and later moving to Dubai, as well as his passion for the performing arts, his love of music, and his dreams of living the life of a successful touring musician.
Whether you're laughing out loud or singing along, Adi’s vibrant personality shines through his performances. Be sure to follow him on Instagram @adithomas__ for updates on his upcoming shows.
Send your questions, comments, or suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or connect with the hosts on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast. You can also submit your HANDy Advice Questions through their Google Forms link.
Tune in and enjoy the laughs with Adi Thomas!
Join Joshua and Janine as they explore the highlights and drama of the 2024 Olympics, held in Paris, France, from July 27th to August 11th. From record-breaking performances and unexpected controversies to viral moments and trending memes, this year’s Games were truly unforgettable.
The episode kicks off with Janine's wild experience of (well, sort of) being stalked during her college days, a discussion about the new Salik toll gates in Dubai, and a deep dive into the concept of "love bombing."
They also take a closer look at the incredible achievements of Carlos Yulo, the gold medal-winning gymnast from the Philippines, and the surprising rewards he received for his victory. Plus, hear all about Joshua's ambitious goal to compete in the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, USA.
Tune in for a thrilling recap and insider insights from the world's biggest athletic stage!
Send your questions, comments, or suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or connect with the hosts on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast. You can also submit your HANDy Advice Questions through our Google Forms link.
Join us for a hilarious episode with the very funny Roxy Yekta, a stand-up comedian known for her witty crowd work and observational humor that leaves audiences in stitches.
Roxy (@Roxydoescomedy) is a UK-born comedian of Iranian descent, currently residing in Dubai. Besides her stand-up career, Roxy co-hosts the Spicy Babies podcast with Saaniya and Zee Abbas, which you can catch on YouTube.
In this episode, Roxy shares her unique experiences growing up in the UK before moving to Dubai during her high school years. She delves into the culture shocks she faced, how she met her husband, and her first job, which turned out to be a dodgy business. Roxy also talks about her passion for drama, which eventually led her to stand-up comedy, and discusses the ups and downs of being a comedian, from joke writing and testing, to promoting yourself on social media.
Show some love and support to Roxy by following her on Instagram @Roxydoescomedy for updates on her upcoming shows. You won't regret it—unless, of course, she spots you in the audience!
Send your questions, comments, or suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or connect with the hosts on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast. You can also submit your HANDy Advice Questions through our Google Forms link. Tune in and laugh your heart out with Roxy!
Join us for an inspiring and exciting conversation with Mo Al-Saleh, the founder of Phronesis Advisory, a dedicated educational institution that connects medical students and graduates worldwide with U.S. professional clinical experiences.
Mo (@phronesisadvisory) is a Jordanian born in Saudi Arabia and currently residing in Dubai. He is an entrepreneur, author, and now, recently, a matchmaker (listen to this episode to find out why).
In this episode, Mo shares his remarkable story of being born and raised in an Aramco compound in Saudi Arabia, his exposure to Western culture, and how the Covid-19 lockdown was a turning point for him to start something on his own. You'll get a glimpse into his unique upbringing, his passion for giving back, and the significance of occasionally saying “no” to prioritize personal growth and self-improvement.
Show some love and support to Mo by following him on Instagram @phronesisadvisory. If you are a medical student needing assistance or advice on applying for clinical experience in the United States, feel free to contact him directly on Instagram or visit their website at https://phronesis-advisory.org
Send your questions, comments, or suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or connect with the hosts on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast. You can also submit your HANDy Advice Questions through our Google Forms link.
Tune in and be inspired by Mo Al-Saleh's story!
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Shereen Ahmed, a familiar face to many and a dynamic force in various creative fields.
Shereen (@ShereenAhmed) is a Filipino-Bahraini poet, content creator, podcaster, writer, and TV presenter, currently hosting the Emirates Draw.
In this episode, she shares her remarkable journey into modeling and pageantry, driven by a deep desire to give back to her mother and become the best version of herself on her path of being a truly inspirational role model for women everywhere. Along her journey, Shereen reveals valuable life lessons she's learned and how her experiences have shaped her path.
This episode offers something for everyone—whether you're starting from scratch or aiming for new heights, navigating life's pivots, or resonating with the podcasts beloved topic of Filipino Moms.
Additionally, Shereen opens up about her philanthropy and the significance of community support. As the founder of Hope Bahrain (@Hope_Bahrain), a community initiative in Bahrain focused on aiding moms in need, she underscores the importance of giving back and helping out wherever and whenever you can. To learn more or get involved, don't hesitate to reach out to her.
Send your questions, comments, or suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or connect with the hosts on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast. You can also submit your HANDy Advice Questions through our Google Forms link.
Tune in and be inspired by Shereen Ahmed's story!
Tune in as the duo sit down with one of the trailblazers of Filipino Stand-Up comedy, Ron Josol. You may recognize him from his viral social media reels capturing Filipinos in their natural habitat, his culinary escapades, or his side-splitting stand-up routines.
Ron (@RonJosol1) is a Filipino-Canadian comic boasting over 30 years of experience performing comedy across the globe. Currently on the final stretch of his Ron the World tour, he's graced stages in Canada, the UK, Scandinavia, the Caribbean, Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and the USA.
In this episode, Ron delves into his upbringing in Canada, navigating the loss of a parent at a young age, and the profound influence of his father's approach to life. Beyond his comedic prowess, Ron shares insightful knowledge about Filipino culture, lineage, and the origins of Filipino Stand-Up comedy.
Catch Ron during his remaining shows in the UAE, where he's currently touring with the Laughter Factory alongside seasoned comedians Julian Deane and Liz Bains:
The Club, Abu Dhabi on Wednesday, May 1st
Al Habtoor Polo Resort, Dubai on Thursday, May 2nd
Radisson DAMAC Hills, Dubai on Friday, May 3rd
Dukes The Palm, Dubai on Saturday, May 4th
Thank you for tuning in and/or watching, and don't forget to subscribe to the podcast!
Send your questions, comments, or suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or drop the hosts a DM and follow them on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast. You can also reach them with your HANDy Advice Questions through the Google Forms link https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
Aloha!
Tune in as the duo reflect on their recent trip to Oahu, Hawaii.
Listen in as they share their experiences and stories of traveling to the beautiful island of Oahu, and check out why Joshua claims that “it’s the most beautiful island he has ever been to.” Oahu hits the trifecta of what a perfect island should be – great food, clear water beaches and fascinating culture. It has something for everyone and is an island that everyone should add to their list of places to visit.
And on top of all this, Joshua and Janine crossed off something from their bucket list - they had a caricature of themselves done by the one and only @caricatureparty.
In addition to discussing about their trip, Joshua introduces a new segment into the podcast asking future guests on the top 3 restaurants that they would take their friends or family to when visiting the UAE.
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast.
You can use the below Google Forms link to reach us - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
Tune in as the duo sit down with Manila-based comedians, Nathan Mounayer & Aldo Cuervo!
Nathan(@shawarmachine33) is the half-Lebanese, half-Filipino owner and chef of the highly-rated Middle Eastern restaurant Meshwe in Quezon City, Metro Manila. Also meet Aldo(@aldoritosss), who is half-Spanish and half-Filipino, and a full-time comedian with almost 10 years of experience under his belt.
The Manila stand-up comedy culture is rapidly growing with the rise of both English and Tagalog comedians, and the Half a Nice Day duo had the opportunity to learn more about the scene from active comedians Nathaniel and Aldo, while learning what drove them to becoming comedians, growing up as mixed-race individuals in Manila and their frustrations in the industry.
An episode with a lot of insights and laugher, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!
Catch Nathan and Aldo around the Philippines and check out comedymanila.ph for upcoming shows and tickets!
And a huge shout out to the below, please do show them some love and consider giving them a follow!
@meshwerestaurant – An authentic family-owned restaurant serving Middle Eastern/Lebanese delicacies owned by Nathan Mounayer himself
@comedymanila – Follow them to get first-hand updates on all the upcoming stand-up comedy shows in Philippines
@timiyeah – Timi, The sweetheart and Janine’s twin who arranged all the equipment and gave us a space to record the podcast
@thetreehouseph –The studio we had recorded in, check out their podcast that features your favourite Filipino musicians!
@flyinghouseresto – The restaurant owned by Timi and the space that hosts the The Treehouse podcast. Order the Ocho Pizza, you won’t be disappointed!
Thanks for listening and/or watching and please do consider subscribing to the podcast!
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast. You can also use the below Google Forms link to reach us with your HANDy Advice Questions - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
Tune in as the duo introduces a brand new segment to the podcast where they vlog their experiences in different countries.
In the first of many series, the duo pays a visit to Uncle Sam and visits USA!
Listen in as they share their experiences and stories of traveling to America for their overdue Honeymoon. They talk about it all, from seeing their favourite childhood bands like Blink-182, Green Day, All Time Low and many more, at the When We Were Young Festival, to seeing the amazing sights and sounds of the Grand Canyon and Joshua Tree National Park, and so much more on their 3 week adventure.
In addition to the travel show, Joshua and Janine take time to record from their home studio to discuss their position on the 1$r@el and P@le$t!ne conflict, have a brief debate on the 5 day work week and Joshua being scammed by a plant store.
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast.
You can use the below Google Forms link to reach us - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
In honor of World Mental Health Day, observed on the 10th of October, the duo sat down with Dubai’s favourite mental health advocate, Sahil AKA The Monk with Braids.
Sahil, who is half Iranian and half Indian, is a certified life coach and on a mission to make Dubai more spiritual by educating them on the importance of mental health and taking care of your mind and spirit.
Listen in as Sahil shares his touching on-going story with depression and anxiety and battle with addiction and how he found peace in the simplest of ways through meditation and journaling.
With this year's theme of World Mental Health Day being “Mental health is a universal human right”, Sahil also shares ways in which everyone can start being more aware by providing practical tips and small steps on starting your journey with your mind’s wellbeing.
Show Sahil some love and follow him on social media on
Instagram - @finding_lighthouses
Podcast – The Monk With Braids Podcast
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast.
You can use the below Google Forms link to reach us - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
Tune in as the duo sit down with the hilarious Shawn “My Parents Are Divorced” Chidiac.
Shawn is a stand-up comedian and the mastermind behind your favourite social media characters, such as Cafeteria Man, Egyptian Baba, and many more.
Listen in as Shawn talks to us about his creative process, the importance of mental health, and assuming a healthy mindset to pursue his passion full-time and all the challenges he overcame to get to where he is today.
This is definitely an episode that cannot be missed for anyone who loves comedy and content creation, and needs an enlightening figure in this space.
Show Shawn some love and follow him on social media on
Instagram - @myparents_are_divorced
YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@myparentsaredivorced
Tiktok - @myparents_are_divorced
His podcast on Spotify – PFM – Product of a Failed Marriage
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast. Feel like watching the podcast instead? Subscribe to our Youtube channel You can use the below Google Forms link to reach us - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
Tune in as the duo sit down with comedy powerhouse, Amr Elassal and Imah Dumagay!
Amr and Imah are two Dubai based comedians who just happen to be married to each other and navigating the beautiful blend of cultures in their interracial relationship. Listen in as the duo take on an unfiltered look at their relationship as they dive deep into the world of their love story, their journey to stand up comedy and everything else in between. A must listen episode for everyone!
Amr and Imah are also the great minds behind UAE’s premier comedy club Comedy Kix. Comedy Kix curates and hosts a variety of comedic performances, ranging from open mic nights at various venues throughout Dubai to theater shows, corporate events, and private engagements.
Through their dedication to providing high-quality and immersive comedic experiences, Comedy Kix has become a highly sought-after comedy promoter for comedy enthusiasts in the city. Additionally, the club also offers stand-up comedy workshops for those looking to develop their comedic talents.
You can catch a Comedy Kix show by checking out there schedules here and if you want to learn about stand up comedy and take on the stage, they offer classes as well! You can learn more about that here
Please show Amr and Imah some love and follow them on their social media accounts!
Amr - @thefunnyegyptian (Instagram)
Imah - @imahcomedy (Instagram and TikTok)
Comedy Kix - @ComedyKix (Instagram)
Also be sure to grab your tickets to the Funny Filipinos Dubai happening on the 10th of September 2023 at Radisson Red. Ticket can be bought here
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast. Feel like watching the podcast instead? Subscribe to our Youtube channel You can use the below Google Forms link to reach us - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
Tune in as the duo share their amazing experience traveling to Buscalan and meeting the legendary Apo Whang-Od!
Hailing from the Kalinga tribe, she is renowned for preserving the ancient art of traditional tattooing and the oldest tattoo artist in the world!
In awe of Whang Od's remarkable skills and indomitable spirit, Josh and Janine share the profound experience of being tattooed by this iconic figure. With weathered hands that have adorned countless individuals with intricate traditional tattoos, Whang Od's warm presence creates a unique connection. As they endure the rhythmic tapping of Whang Od's hand, etching permanent memories onto their skin, they witness the mesmerizing artistry of "batok."
Listen in on this extraordinary adventure, where they celebrate the power of art, culture, and the intergenerational bonds that keep traditions alive. Experience the timeless beauty of Whang Od's art and the profound impact it leaves on all who encounter it.
Huge shout-out to Aling Maliit Adventure PH for making dreams come true!
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast.
Feel like watching the podcast instead? Subscribe to our Youtube channel - http://www.youtube.com/HalfANiceDay
You can use the below Google Forms link to reach us - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
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Tune in as the duo sit down with Yemeni-American Comedian Ahmed Al-Kadri!
Currently based in LA, Ahmed was part of the star studded line-up at this years Dubai Comedy Festival.
Over the last few years, Ahmed has gained a massive online following from his sketches and most notable work such as "Roommates with Anxiety" and"F-boi Rehab".
In this hilarious and insightful episode of our podcast, Ahmed shares his experiences growing up as a Yemeni-Muslim in USA, his story on quitting his job as an accountant and moving to LA to pursue comedy full time and shares his advice on finances and comedy(yes we covered everything😂)
Show Ahmed some love and consider following him on social media @ahmedlovesbread
You can also check out his podcast @mondayfundaypodcast and watch it on YouTube by clicking here
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast.
Feel like watching the podcast instead? Subscribe to our Youtube channel - http://www.youtube.com/HalfANiceDay
You can use the below Google Forms link to reach us - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
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Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/halfanicedaypodcast/message
Tune in as the duo sit down with a living miracle - Sujith Varghese.
At 20 years old, Sujith became paralyzed from the chest down after a bike accident. He underwent 18 surgeries, showing resilience and unwavering self-belief in reaching extraordinary heights. His story does not end there, but may just be the beginning.
Sujith possesses a diverse professional profile, excelling as a banker, a motivational speaker as well as a fitness trainer. In November 2021, he achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first Person of Determination on a wheelchair to be recognized as a certified personal trainer. In March 2023, he pushed his boundaries and created his own Guinness World Record. Using GPS technology, Sujith created an image of a wheelchair by travelling 8.71 km (5.41 miles) around downtown Dubai - earning the record title for largest GPS drawing done by an individual in a wheelchair.
Listen in on this one-of-a-kind episode, where the duo brings to light Sujith’s inspiring story, how he pushed himself beyond his physical limits, how he dared to to achieve the impossible and prove what can be done with steadfast dedication and determination.
Show Sujith some love and consider following and support him on Instagram @sujithstory
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast.
Feel like watching the podcast instead? Subscribe to our Youtube channel - http://www.youtube.com/HalfANiceDay
You can use the below Google Forms link to reach us - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
We would love to hear your voices too! Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/halfanicedaypodcast/message
Tune in as the duo sit down with Comedy Superstar and Entrepreneur, John Achkar!
John is a Lebanese comedian whose life changed upon moving to Dubai. After 7 years of performing live comedy, John finally got the recognition he deserved after going viral at last year's Dubai Comedy Festival and just got back to Dubai after touring the GCC and Europe.
Listen in on this hilarious episode as John shares his unique life story with us, from how he started his comedy journey, challenges he faces along the way and advice for anyone looking to get into comedy (or try to understand this unique yet complex art form 😂)
John will also be taping his special 'Wein 3ayesh?' with back-to-back shows at this year's Dubai Comedy Festival on May 21st at The Theater at Mall of the Emirates . His 6PM show is sold out, so act quickly and book seats for his 9PM show by clicking here!
Show John some love and consider following and support him on social media!
Instagram - @johnachr
TikTok - @johnelachkar
Send your questions/comments/suggestions to halfanicedayshow@gmail.com, or slide into our DM and follow us on Instagram @HalfANiceDayPodcast.
Feel like watching the podcast instead? Subscribe to our Youtube channel - http://www.youtube.com/HalfANiceDay
You can use the below Google Forms link to reach us - https://bit.ly/3iZ1ZRT
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Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/halfanicedaypodcast/message