S2E9: Craig Dodge, Director at the Phare Circus in Cambodia
Listen to full episode :
Join us on a captivating journey with Craig Dodge, the Director at the Phare Circus in Cambodia. An organization that was born out of a humanitarian effort by Veronique de Croix, a French national, to offer Cambodian refugees a form of therapy through art and has now transformed into a beacon of hope offering a future to its artists using the power of storytelling. This conversation promises to unveil not just the inspiring evolution of the Phare Circus, but also takes you through the dramatic changes in Cambodia's tourism industry as seen through Craig's eyes.
Have you ever wondered how one navigates through a global pandemic while running a nonprofit social enterprise in a country like Cambodia? As we delve into Craig's inspiring journey from his first flight to New York to his ultimate move to Siem Reap at a critical point in the nation's tourism, we learn how he and his organization faced the challenges of the pandemic, their survival tactics, including an attempt at the Guinness World Record, and their unwavering hope for a bright future. Craig's insights into the resilience of Cambodians and the silver linings of the pandemic promise to be an enriching lesson in perseverance and adaptability.
What more can you ask for than an episode that also serves as a travel guide to Cambodia? From the temples of Angkor Park to the Kulan Elephant Forest, Craig encourages potential travelers to explore the lesser-known gems of Siem Reap. His recommendations range from local boutique hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants to culturally enriching experiences such as the Phare Circus and the Absara Theater. Not just that, we also discuss the rise of sustainable travel and the importance of making meaningful travel choices. This conversation aims to leave you with a renewed perspective on travel, art, resilience, and the power of human connection. This fascinating episode with Craig Dodge is sure to leave you yearning for a Cambodian adventure!
