Representation matters — because for much of my life, I didn’t see Asian Americans in leadership, on stages, or in mainstream media. So now, when I do see someone who looks like me in the spotlight, I notice. And I feel it.

In this episode, I reflect on the moments that made a big impact — from Ronny Chieng hosting The Daily Show and interviewing another Asian guest, to witnessing Asian emcees, astronauts, senators, and comedians boldly sharing their culture on public platforms.

These aren’t just one-off wins. They’re powerful reminders of what’s possible.

You’ll hear about the times I’ve gone out of my way to thank Asian speakers at events, the emotional lift of representation.

This episode is for allies, listeners of color, and if different identities and anyone learning to pay attention to who gets the mic — and why it matters when we show up and claim our culture.

Lung cancer is the #1 cause of death for Asian Americans. Yet 50% of Asian American women diagnosed with lung cancer have never smoked. While lung cancer rates are declining in all other groups, they’re rising among Asian American non-smokers—up 2% each year.

Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders continue to be overlooked across industries, including healthcare. We're underrepresented in research, invisible in data, and underserved when it comes to life-saving resources.

In this episode, I speak with thoracic surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Velotta and advocate Angie Jin, who are working to bring visibility and action to this deadly trend.

Share this episode. Awareness is power. And in this case, it might just save lives.

There is a youtube version too.

Getting the word out will help

https://thoracic-northerncalifornia.kaiserpermanente.org/resources/

I’ve got a flood of ideas and stories ready to go—interviews in the queue, messages that matter. The only thing missing? An editor and social media team that don’t exist… yet.

That said, discipline is kicking in, and I believe it’s time. The podcast will be rolling out on a regular rhythm.

If you're out there and this speaks to you, reach out.

In this excerpt from my speech, I pull back the curtain on what it feels like to navigate corporate, community and social spaces while carrying the invisible weight of anti-Asian hate. In the wake of anti-Asian violence and rising invisibility, I spoke up—and fell upon deaf ears. My white friends didn’t show up. Instead, I encountered gaslighting and deadly silence.

This is my story of choosing truth over tolerance, clarity over comfort, and justice over friendships. If you’ve ever felt unseen, erased, or alone in your pain—this message is for you. Speaking up may cost you the wrong people, but it willconnect you to the right ones.

And that’s worth it.

Tell your story. We need it. We need you.

With all the different calendar systems around the world, you can celebrate New Year's throughout the year. What is Lunar New Year? Did you know that Chinese New Year is lunisolar? This means it is based on both the moon and the sun.

Besides learning about other cultures, by listening to this episode, you can see an example of how a shopping mall benefits from being Asian-inclusive. They profit by reflecting their population and recognizing holidays too. Diversity, equity, and inclusion are smart business decisions because the US is becoming more diverse. The video includes subtitles in the background.

Have you as an attendee ever felt not welcome at a meeting? Felt like an outsider because no one talked to you. No one looks like you. No one speaks your language.

With ever-increasing global and diverse audiences that bring different backgrounds and perspectives, how does the attendee make the decision to attend?

The success of our events will be influenced by inclusion and engagement. Meeting and event designers, facilities, and ancillary services help participants achieve the desired professional development, business and networking objectives by creating the most welcoming and inclusive meetings and events.

Create more inclusive events!

This episode briefly shows you a window into the Asian American Experience, challenging the deep-seated stereotypes and misunderstandings that pervade American society. From the widespread ignorance of the community’s diverse origins and cultures to the damaging media portrayals that cast Asians as perpetual foreigners, the podcast explores the real-world consequences of these stereotypes. Additionally, it addresses the troubling rise in microaggressions and hate incidents against Asian Americans, emphasizing the emotional and societal toll of such discrimination. Through a mix of personal stories and expert insights, this episode advocates for a more informed and respectful recognition of Asian American experiences and contributions.

Today we're discussing why your company should join in on celebrating May as Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month.

Here's what we'll cover:

• What does your organization have to gain by recognizing this month?
• What is the origin of this heritage month
• Who cares?
• How to honor this month properly.
• Tips on what to do and what not to do.
• Advice on improving plans that might not hit the mark