Robert Wagner - Founder of 20 Seconds in Thailand

Disillusion with life in the USA led to Robert Wagner buying a one-way ticket to Thailand, and his only regret is that he didn’t do it sooner!

What’s your story?

In 2015 I bought my first ticket ever out of the USA. It was a one-way ticket for Bangkok. I was fed up with the work ethic and dating scene of America, so I decided to take the risk of a life time. I was so scared and nervous to be traveling half way around the world to a country where I didn’t speak the language or know the culture.

When I got here I started a YouTube channel. Now, I have a place I call home and cannot remember the sad times I had in my former country.

What excites you most about your industry?

Vlogging is personal and artistic. You can create anything you like! Whether it be a cooking channel or a travel channel, or both, it’s yours to mold and grow.

You are your own boss. You can choose to work 24/7 or once a week depending on your ambition and goals.

What drives you in business to push beyond what other people consider normal?

I’m not scared of change. Historically I reinvent myself every decade.

I also feel you can do basically anything you want in life within reason. ( and sometimes beyond reason) and I want to try them all.

I’ve also always desired the better life. To be rich!

But that is found in more than just money. It’s a great quality of life that makes you rich as well.

What have been the most useful skills you have learnt and applied in your journey?

Kindness and respect to others. Although I don’t speak fluent Thai, and I don’t know everything about the Thai culture, kindness and respect have carried me over the years.

People around the world understand if you mean well. If you are hungry or lost, ask for help. You will be amazed how nice strangers are.

Anger and hostility will get you nowhere. And fast.

What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?

Do what you love and you will never work a day in your life.

Who inspires you?

Mostly comedians, living and passed.

They bring humor and fun into our lives. I do the same.

I choose to make people laugh and smile at any opportunity.

What have you learnt recently that blew you away?

My age. I realized that I sit around with people talking about health issues and hospital costs!

If you had your time again, what would you do differently?

I wouldn’t be so submerged in my own country’s culture.