Olivia Thai
Multi-Lingual Musician Blending Melody and Storytelling
Episode 178
Olivia Thai is a dynamic multimedia artist who artfully blends her award-winning songwriting skills, journalism background, and a touch of comedy. Starting her music career at just 15, Olivia has performed across the globe, from stadiums with her band to intimate living rooms, captivating audiences with her remarkable talent as a multi-instrumentalist. She seamlessly transitions between the violin, guitar, and piano while singing, often using a looping machine to create rich, live compositions that engage her audience with storytelling and humor.
Olivia’s impressive accolades include winning Taiwan Idol and Usher’s Megastar competition, as well as appearing on American Idol. With over 21 million views on YouTube and a devoted fanbase exceeding 2 million, she has also made a mark as a writer and comedic actress for a popular comedy channel. Beyond her music, Olivia is a serial entrepreneur, having started her first business at age 12. Today, she’s a U.S. Founder 2.0 of dōTERRA, the largest essential oil company globally, and has launched multiple ventures throughout her career.
Holding degrees in linguistics and journalism from UC Berkeley, Olivia is currently pursuing further education at Columbia Business School in New York. Fluent in 13 languages, she embodies a spirit of transformation and healing through her art, delivering unforgettable performances that balance truth, creativity, and sophistication. Join us as we explore the journey of Olivia Thai—a singer, songwriter, entrepreneur, and comedic force, dedicated to connecting with her audience in profound ways.
Instagram: @olivia.thai
Website: oliviathai.com
Olivia Thai Takeaways
Triumph Over Adversity Through Talent
Olivia Tai’s journey through financial struggles to winning numerous singing competitions in the San Gabriel Valley (SGV) is a testament to her resilience and talent. Using her musical abilities to supplement her income, she became a dominant force in the local competition scene, showcasing her adaptability and determination.
Deep Roots in the San Gabriel Valley
Olivia’s connection to the SGV is profound, having been born in Monterey Park and attended local schools. Her narrative emphasizes the importance of community and belonging, illustrating how the SGV’s rich cultural tapestry has shaped her identity and values.
Multilingual and Multicultural Influence
Fluent in over 20 languages and raised in a household where Cantonese, Chiu Chau, and French were spoken, Olivia’s multicultural background is fascinating. Her story highlights the diverse linguistic landscape of the SGV and the role of language in preserving cultural heritage.
A Non-Traditional Path to Success
Olivia’s educational journey is inspiring, marked by perseverance and unconventional choices. From being emancipated at 16 to attending Columbia University Business School, her path underscores the value of lifelong learning and pursuing one’s passions against all odds.
Olivia Thai Quotes
“I’ve never in my entire life, even from childhood, felt like I was normal. I just always kind of felt like a freak of nature.”
“I think that’s one of the beautiful parts about being in the SGV is we’re constantly still going to family parties at the restaurants. There’s still so many restaurants here where you can’t order unless you speak Chinese.”
“I think I’ve just lived the outcast life. I never played sports. I was always just kind of a nerdy music freak.”
“I’ve never had an alcoholic drink in my entire life. No drinking, no smoking, no drugs, nothing.”
“I think it’s just something I’ve always naturally been interested in. I majored in linguistics in college, too.”
“There is no place like the SGV. Just like there’s no place like New York.”
Show Notes
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Music Credits
Intro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Stinger
Scarlet Fire (Sting), Otis McDonald, YouTube Audio Library
Outro
Euphoria in the San Gabriel Valley, Yone OG
Olivia Thai
Chaozhou Food
Olivia cherishes the unique Chiu Chau food available in the SGV, highlighting the area’s role in preserving this culinary tradition outside of Asia. Restaurants starting with “Kim” signify a connection to this heritage, offering dishes like oyster pancakes and showcasing the SGV as a cultural preservation hub.
Oh My Pan Bakery
A Taiwanese bakery known for its distinctive sandwiches, particularly the ham and egg, and shredded pork varieties. Olivia’s affection for these sandwiches, believed to rival those found in Asia, underscores the SGV’s unparalleled culinary scene.
Boba Culture
Olivia points to the SGV’s vibrant boba culture as a standout aspect of the area. The quality and variety of boba available in the SGV, according to her, are unmatched, placing it second only to Taiwan itself. This signifies the SGV’s role as a cultural bridge, bringing authentic Asian experiences to the local community.
