F*ck Saving Face

Are you feeling lost or stuck in your life? Are you struggling with self-doubt and feelings of inadequacy? Do you want to break free from the expectations of others and embrace your true self? If so, listen to this episode where Judy shares her personal journey of battling depression and how she uses mindfulness practices to acknowledge her hard work and deservingness. So, take a deep breath and join Judy on this journey to mindfulness and self-acceptance. Let go of any stories or identities that are holding you back, and embrace your true self. You are strong and capable of making choices in your life. You deserve to be happy and fulfilled. Remember, in this moment, you are safe and confident.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

Are you tired of constantly feeling the pressure to keep up with society's expectations of material possessions and experiences? Do you want to achieve financial freedom but don't know where to start? In this episode, guest speaker Shang Saavedra shares her personal journey of achieving financial freedom through a focus on reducing expenses and investing wisely.But it's not just about the money. Shang emphasizes the connection between mental health and financial health and how reframing your mindset can lead to a happier and more fulfilling life. By aligning your core values with your financial goals, you can prioritize what truly brings you joy and let go of the pressure to conform to others' expectations.So how can you start your own journey towards financial freedom and improved mental health? Shang provides actionable tips such as forgiving yourself for past mistakes, learning about personal finance, and taking action even when scared. She also encourages open and honest conversations about money to lift the veil of shame and help people learn from each other's experiences.Don't let society's expectations dictate your happiness. Take control of your finances and your mental health by reframing your mindset and aligning your values with your goals. Tune in to this episode for more practical advice and inspiring stories of personal motivation and perseverance. Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

In this podcast episode, Judy Tsuei, founder of Wild Hearted Words, talks about empowering mental and emotional health for Asian Americans and voices of color by breaking through taboo topics. She shares updates on her personal and professional life, including moving to a new house, working with a therapist, and gaining clarity in her business. Judy also talks about the importance of community, financial independence, and doing grief work to process past pain and trauma. She shares her experience of growing up in a family where she felt different and struggled with emotional abuse. Judy encourages listeners to prioritize their own mental and emotional well-being and take bold and courageous steps towards self-acceptance and self-love.Are you feeling stuck in your personal or professional life? Have you been struggling to break through limiting beliefs and social expectations? In this podcast episode, Judy Tsuei shares her personal journey of overcoming emotional abuse, shedding familial expectations, and finding her own path towards success and fulfillment. Here are five mindset shifts inspired by Judy's story that can help you move forward with intention and mindfulness:Embrace Your True Self: Don't let social or family  expectations hold you back from being your authentic self. Accepting and embracing your true self is the first step towards creating a life of purpose and meaning.Prioritize Mental and Emotional Well-being: Seek support from professionals and communities to prioritize your mental and emotional health. Doing the grief work and processing past pain and trauma can lead to remarkable results in life.Take Aligned Actions: Manifesting and taking aligned actions can help you achieve your goals and dreams. The power of the universe is behind you, and luck favors the prepared.Let Go of How Things Have to Be: Give yourself permission to have a fun life and make a lot of money doing what you love. Let go of social expectations and create your own path towards success and fulfillment.Stay True to Yourself: Don't sacrifice your own needs and desires for the sake of fitting in with family expectations. Stay true to yourself and prioritize your own mental and emotional well-being.By adopting these mindset shifts, you can create a more empowered and fulfilling life. Remember, it's never too late to start living the life you truly deserve. So, what are you waiting for? Start making those mindset shifts today!Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

Iris Chen is the founder of the Untigering movement and author of "Untigering: Peaceful Parenting for the Deconstructing Tiger Parent." Her mission is to promote peaceful parenting, intersectional unschooling, and anti-oppression, especially among Asian communities. After spending 16 years living overseas in China (land of the tiger parent!), she now resides in her native California with her husband, two sons, and cat. Listen to our interview as we unpack her book... and other things!For more show notes and links to the things I mention, visit: https://www.fcksavingface.com/podcast/episode-05-untigering-with-iris-chen Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

If you're a child of immigrant parents, then you may have had the experience of being a "parentified child," where you were forced to take on the role of an adult. If you were ever forced into the role of caretaker for your younger siblings or had to become a referee in your parent's arguments, this episode is for you.For more show notes and links to the things I mention, visit: https://www.fcksavingface.com/podcast/episode-4-the-parentified-child Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

If this week's topics have been "activating" for you, bringing up feelings and responses you may not have realized you had, this mindfulness practice is designed to help you heal and to bring all the disparate parts of you home to create a real sense of wholeness.For more show notes and links to the things I mention, visit: https://www.fcksavingface.com/podcast/episode-03-call-your-spirit-home Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

How do you embrace all facets of your identity, when you’re made up of multiple marginalized populations? Judy speaks with Susan Epps, a self-proclaimed goofy nerd, educator and mom of two who always finds a way to infuse humor and levity when tackling life's toughest issues.  As a veteran independent school senior administrator, Equity & Inclusion consultant, affinity group facilitator, public speaker and writer, Susan brings her personal story and unique voice to every stage she occupies. Tune in for laugh out loud moments and hardcore truths.For more show notes and links to the things I mention, visit: https://www.fcksavingface.com/podcast/episode-02-susan-epps Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

Judy shares in our first episode what F*ck Saving Face is all about! And, why we’re launching this podcast NOW — as well as a personal essay about how to find your safe spaces in the world, especially if you’ve ever felt an outcast in your family.For more show notes and links to the things I mention, visit: https://www.fcksavingface.com/podcast/episode-01-find-belonging Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

Welcome to the Fuck Saving Face podcast, a space where we learn how to become and celebrate the New Asian in America.In this podcast, we’ll cover: Mental, emotional, and physical health topics specifically for Asian-AmericansConscious parenting, if you were raised by a tiger mother and have a cub of your ownRelationships, marriage, divorce, and dating, especially SEXSpiritualityFinding your own kind of happy in career and life — which doesn’t mean becoming a doctor, lawyer or pursuing a traditional path toward successEpisodes coming soon! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

Join me in this captivating episode as I sit down with Fiona Kong, the inspiring founder of Home Sweet Homes Journal.Fiona Kong's journey from adversity to triumph is nothing short of remarkable. As a single mompreneur, she transformed personal challenges into opportunities. After experiencing separation and job loss in 2019, Fiona courageously launched Home Sweet Homes Journal during the pandemic. Her driving force? To support not only her own son but co-parented children worldwide.Delving into her own childhood trauma, Fiona recognized a critical need for emotional support in children. Thus, she crafted journals containing the nurturing elements she longed for as a child. The Home Sweet Homes journal, along with the All About Me, by Us journal (suitable for any family dynamic), are empowering future generations by instilling emotional intelligence, communication skills, and fostering stronger parent-child connections.Within these journals lie daily prompts, affirmation themes, and sections for co-parenting schedules. Fiona passionately underscores the significance of emotional regulation and open communication between children and parents. Through reflection and repair, these journals serve as invaluable tools in constructing resilient parent-child relationships and laying the groundwork for a brighter future.Email | fionakong@homesweethomesjournal.comWebsite | www.homesweethomesjournal.comGet a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

In this episode, we're diving deep into the enlightening wisdom of Sana Akhand, a marriage coach whose out-of-the-box approach to relationships has captured hearts worldwide.Sana shares her refreshing take on reinvigorating relationships, underlining the importance of creating space for oneself and one's partner. Using her expertise, she explores how epigenetics can profoundly shape our relationships, shedding light on how ancestral patterns impact our present connections.At the core of Sana's philosophy lies the crucial practice of inner work and healing. She passionately urges listeners to break free from societal pressures, guiding them on a journey toward uncovering genuine happiness and contentment in their relationships.Throughout our conversation, Sana emphasizes the harmony of light and shadow within both life and relationships, urging us to embrace every aspect of ourselves and our partnerships. Her personal narrative of living separately from her husband struck a chord with audiences, sparking a viral wave of inspiration for couples to explore unconventional paths to deepen their bond.Join us as we delve into the profound insights of Sana Akhand, and embark on a journey to discover a fresh perspective on love, healing, and growth in relationships.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

In this episode of the F*ck Saving Face podcast, host Judy Tsuei takes listeners on a captivating journey through the depths of healing, empowerment, and the pursuit of authenticity. With raw honesty and relatable anecdotes, Judy delves into the importance of finding a therapist who shares your cultural background and the transformative power of having them as part of your support network.But that's just the beginning. Judy fearlessly explores the intricacies of ensuring her forthcoming book makes a positive impact while shining a spotlight on trauma-informed care. Through personal reflections, she reveals her own battles with the fear of happiness and the lingering effects of authoritarian parenting, offering insights into rewiring the mind and conquering self-doubt.Listeners are invited to join Judy as she uncovers the secrets to building trust in relationships, fostering a supportive team culture, and navigating the complexities of trauma healing with resilience and grace. With each revelation, Judy underscores the importance of celebrating achievements, embracing self-worth, and healing intergenerational wounds to make a meaningful difference in the world.This episode is a rallying cry for authenticity, genuine connections, and prioritizing self-care and renewal. Get ready to embark on an inspiring journey towards a life filled with joy, empowerment, and unapologetic authenticity. Tune in and unleash your inner power to create the life you truly deserve.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

In this episode, Judy Tsuei discusses the importance of mental health and overcoming cultural norms with Misa Chen, the founder of The Authentic Asian. These two powerful founders explore the biases and stereotypes faced by Asian American women in business and the need for a supportive community. They're direct, honest, and authentic as they encourage AANHPI women everywhere to embrace individuality and break free from societal expectations.As a former model who graced the runway for brands like Neutrogena and Target, Misa highlights the impact of representation in media. She has the distinction of being ranked as the 23rd most viewed woman on LinkedIn worldwide and #1 most viewed Asian American woman nationwide with 16 million+ views per month. Her past speaking clients include Harvard Business School, UCLA, USC, and the University of Washington. She has been featured in Inc. Magazine's 30 under 30 Entrepreneurs, Forbes Women to Watch, LinkedIn Top Voices, and as a serial entrepreneur on the Food Network’s Great Food Truck Race embarrassing herself in front of over 60 million viewers worldwide.Key TakeawaysAddressing mental health is crucial in the Asian community, where it's often stigmatized and overlooked.Asian American women face biases and stereotypes, such as being perceived as submissive or aggressive, which can hinder their professional growth.Creating a supportive community for Asian American women is essential for overcoming cultural norms and empowering each other.Representation in media plays a significant role in shaping perceptions and breaking stereotypes.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

Welcome back to another awesome episode of the F*ck Saving Face podcast! Today, Judy Tsuei takes listeners on a real journey through her book in progress, 'How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps, a Modern Asian American Guide.'Get ready to dive deep into some serious topics with Judy. She talks about the importance of expressing your feelings, especially when it comes to relationships. Judy opens up about her own struggles with understanding and sharing her emotions, especially with family.Throughout the episode, Judy shares bits and pieces from her book that cover things like body image, rebelling against expectations, and how our parents' actions can really impact how we see ourselves. But don't worry, it's not all heavy stuff! Judy also talks about finding strength in tough times and how you can still create an amazing life, no matter what you've been through.So, if you're ready to get real about emotions, relationships, and finding your own path, you won't want to miss this episode. Tune in for some relatable stories, valuable insights, and a whole lot of inspiration.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

In this episode, I interview Anna Hsu, a self-worth coach, about the journey to self-love and compassion. Growing up in traditional Asian households, we often face immense pressure to conform to strict standards of success, academic achievement, and filial piety! This pressure can lead to feelings of inadequacy, self-doubt, and a constant need to prove one's worthiness. Moreover, navigating between two cultures—balancing traditional Asian values with Western ideals—can create internal conflicts and identity struggles, making it challenging to develop a strong sense of self-love and acceptance. Anna shares her personal story of growing up in a traditional Asian household and feeling the pressure to constantly prove her worth. She also discusses the importance of understanding and having compassion for our parents' journeys and the impact they have on our own self-worth. Best of all, Anna provides tools and practices for embarking on the path to self-love and emphasizes the power of celebrating ourselves and others.She's even gifting my listeners a complimentary Gifted Clarity & Breakthrough Session! Book here. Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

Ever grappled with the feeling of being stuck between your achievements and the nagging doubt of unworthiness? A shift in perspective can change everything. I learned this through my father's journey from a traumatic accident in Taiwan to the life-altering move to the U.S. for his children's future. This story of sacrifice and love is just one of the many untold narratives from our parents' generation.We often seek control when faced with the inevitable unknown. My latest podcast episode touches on my preoccupation with death and how that shaped my life's outlook. Join me as I share the insights gathered from living in the delicate balance of what we can and cannot control. In my latest episode, I dive deep into this very space with 3 sample chapters from my upcoming book: The 'Space In Between' shows how we navigate our self-worth amidst success and uncertaintyAt 78, my father's attire remains unchanged: a cap, button-down shirt, and jeans. This image of simplicity belies his relentless work ethic, a theme I explore in a chapter called "Dad." His dedication to work, a silent expression of love, shapes my understanding of commitment. Trauma often hides in plain sight. The chapter, "Fa Zhan," which means punishment in Mandarin, reveals the chilling reality of emotional and physical abuse I experienced. This chapter isn't just my story — it's a voice for many who have endured similar trials. Tune in today to this podcast episode about Battling Demons.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

Ever think about how much more powerful culturally competent therapy is for people of color?In this episode, I interview Asian American women authors and therapists, Susan Lee and Linda Yoon — they're the co-directors of the Yellow Chair Collective and co-authors of "Where I Belong: Healing Trauma and Embracing Asian American Identity." The Yellow Chair Collective is a mental health sanctuary that champions culturally competent therapy for the Asian American community. We dive deep into the complexities of healing trauma, embracing our Asian American identities, and the transformative power of art and storytelling.Here's a sneak peek of the treasures we uncovered:🎨 The Art of Language: Soo Jin Lee shared her journey from feeling voiceless due to language barriers to expressing herself through art, and eventually, writing a book. It's a testament to the power of creativity in finding one's voice.🧠 ADHD and Identity: Linda opened up about her late diagnosis of ADHD, challenging the stereotypes and misconceptions about neurodivergence, especially in Asian communities. Her story is a beacon of hope for anyone feeling misunderstood.🏠 Building a Collective: We discuss the birth of the Yellow Chair Collective, a mental health sanctuary that champions culturally competent therapy for the Asian American community. It's about creating a space where our stories are heard and validated.🔄 Unlearning to Relearn: We challenge ingrained beliefs, set healthy boundaries, and redefine what health and wellness mean within our cultural contexts.💔 Breaking the Cycle: We explore the importance of authenticity and community in dismantling the cultural norm of 'saving face.' It's about being true to ourselves and supporting each other in that journey.This episode is packed with heartfelt stories, eye-opening insights, and a whole lot of soul. It's not just a podcast episode — it's a movement towards a more understanding and compassionate world.If you're curious to learn more, if you're seeking connection, or if you just need a reminder that your story matters, tune in to the latest episode. Let's make our stories beautiful together!And remember, your support is the heartbeat of this show. If you find value in our conversations, please consider leaving a review on iTunes. It helps more than you know.Until next time, stay connected and sign up for my weekly newsletter at wildheartedwords.com – it's a little burst of thoughtfulness I'm told is the highlight of many inboxes.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

In the latest episode, I open the pages of my life to you, sharing the raw and real experiences that have shaped me. I read a chapter of my upcoming memoir tentatively titled, "It Began in the Darkness" when I was left in an incubator by my parents because I was born a month premature.Here's a sampling: "Born one month early, trained to live without touch, in the incubator starting at 6:15 a.m. on July 16 on Sunset Boulevard. I'm much older than my siblings, so I remember when they were born. I remember their grey eyes and how my grandmother, my mother, said they could not yet see clearly. They only knew shapes. Smell, touch. I watched as my youngest brother's eyes became solid, began to see the environment he was born into. The screaming so loudly that it was as though we all went deaf. The tyrannical nature of my father beating into us when his rage went beyond what his yelling could accomplish. The hysterical nature of my mother when she went into her bipolar fits and spurts of completely unsanctioned and unacceptable behavior, to demanding that we love her, that we pay her respect, that we don't talk back. But what was there really to say anyway? My youngest brother's eyes speak more than his words will ever reveal. In the old house on Toland Way, in the ghetto of Eagle Rock, before it became hipster, I remember the way the sun would shine through the sliding glass door that separated the room where my sister and I slept on our bunk bed from the same room where my mother and father shared their bed."Heart-to-heart interactions can be transformative. The past doesn't determine the future. Because I also reveal the first time my Chinese father said, "I love you" to me in college after my boyfriend's father unexpectedly dies of a heart attack, and it turns out to be a wake-up call in so many ways.I'd be honored if you like this episode, if you would share, rate, and review this podcast so more people can feel less alone in the world.Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

I'm thrilled to share with you the latest episode of our podcast. This week, I have the pleasure of hosting Ái  Wang, a Vietnamese-born, Texas-bred filmmaker, and co-founder of TÁPI Story, a production company that tells human-centered stories told from a systemic perspective with compassion, empathy, and dignity.Ái's journey is a fascinating one, filled with cultural exploration, self-discovery, and a passion for storytelling. Born in Vietnam, she emigrated to Texas at the age of five and grew up bicultural. Her early experiences in Vietnam working in a children's shelter shaped her life and work philosophies.Despite starting her career in education and youth development, Ái found her true calling in filmmaking in her early 30s. She shares her journey as a creative, from signing up for a media and storytelling course in Phnom Penh to co-founding TÁPI Story.Here are some key takeaways from our conversation:Embrace the Unknown: Ái emphasizes the importance of stepping outside of your comfort zone and experiencing different cultures and perspectives.The Power of Storytelling: Ái believes in the transformative power of storytelling through various mediums, from films to YouTube, in expanding our understanding of the world.Unmasking Ourselves: We delve into the concept of masking, especially among women, and the importance of being true to ourselves.I hope Ái's story inspires you as much as it inspired me. So, grab your headphones, find a comfy spot, and dive into this conversation.As always, thank you for your support. Don't forget to leave a review if you enjoy this episode and stay connected through my website!Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!

Excavating through old writings, I discovered a piece titled "Reiki and the Reappearance of My Grandmother," a vivid recounting of the end of a relationship, my struggle with an eating disorder, and my decision to prioritize my well-being. There's a narrative power in our personal histories, the lessons we've learned, and the paths we've walked. Grandmothers have a special place in our hearts. Mine had a profound impact on my life. As our roles reversed in her later years, I cherished our walks and the wisdom she imparted. After her passing, I discovered an old video that confirmed her love for me, a moment of comfort amidst overwhelming emotions. In an emotionally charged session with a medium, I connected with my deceased grandmother. The experience filled me with a mix of longing and reassurance. To this day, I hold on to her words — she is always with me. The spiritual encounter has become an integral part of my memoir.Today's episode features memoir excerpts about my grandmother, food, and love. Despite the joy of Saturday morning pancakes at McDonald's with my dad to the simplicity of our home-cooked meals, my relationship with food became more complicated, shaped by cultural and personal factors. Looking back, I see the evolution of my understanding and relationship with food.Tune in today for imperfect excerpts of my book that people have been saying they simply want more, and more, and more of!Get a sample chapter of my book: "How to Disappoint Your Parents in 10 Shameless Steps: A Modern Asian American Guide." Read it now! LIKE WHAT YOU HEARD? Please leave a review on Apple Podcasts! It helps our message get in front of more people. Here's how: Step 1: Go to https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/id1554330617 Step 2: Click “View on Apple Podcasts” Step 3: Click “Ratings and Reviews” Step 4: Click to rate and leave a short review!