In this conversation of “asian, like me...,” I sit down with Angela Chee, author of The Power of the Only, keynote speaker, and a trailblazer who has spent her career navigating spaces where she was often the first and only. Together, we explore how modern Asian women—bold leaders, changemakers, and dreamers—can stop trying to "fit in" and start owning success on their own terms.

This isn't just a conversation about representation; it’s about the Perimeter of Power and the unique vantage point you hold when you are at the edges of the traditional narrative, and how that position allows you to spark transformation in the spaces you navigate.

Inside the Conversation:

1. The Myth of the "Overlooked": Why the narratives of Asian women in leadership have been misrepresented for too long and how to reclaim your story.
2. Strategic Resilience: Moving beyond "bouncing back" to using your challenges as fuel for unfiltered ambition.
3. The Unfair Advantage: How being "the only" provides a unique perspective that can transform industries and workplaces when you reclaim it.
4. Authenticity as Currency: Building meaningful connections by showing up as your full, bold self rather than a curated version.
5. Creating the Ripple Effect: Why owning your power isn't a solo act—it’s a call to action to amplify others and open doors that were previously closed.

Resources & Links

Connect with Angela Chee: Find her book, The Power of the Only, and her latest work at: AngelaChee.com.

Connect with Dr. Sohee: www.soheejunphd.com

Purchase Dr. Sohee's whole wellness products: www.evrten.com

Follow us on Instagram and LinkedIn to engage with our thriving community of Asian women leaders.

Inspired by the coaching experiences of thousands of women and Asian professionals and the historic achievements of female athletes at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, we explore how to channel that same “podium energy” into your own career and entrepreneurial journey. Through relatable insights, this conversation gives practical, action-oriented strategies to break limiting patterns, amplify your leadership impact, and redefine your personal and professional success. Learn how to turn alignment into action, reclaim your power, and make decisions that honor both your ambition and your well-being.

If you’re building your startup, climbing the corporate ladder, or shaping meaningful change in your community, this conversation equips you to interrupt old patterns, embrace bold action, and create visible breakthroughs that move your career and influence forward.

To learn more about Dr. Sohee Jun and the asian, like me… podcast, visit www.soheejunphd.com

Follow us on social: @soheejun_phd & @evrtenlife

LinkedIn: Sohee Jun, Ph.D.

Resources & Links:

1. Get your copy of The Aligned Mindset.
2. Visit EVRten to join the community and explore the Clarity Candle and Clean Protein Bars.

Research Citations:

1. McKinsey & Company & LeanIn.Org, "Women in the Workplace 2025/2026 Report."
2. Fortune 500 / Fortune.com, "Women CEOs Record High" (2025 List).
3. International Olympic Committee (IOC), Milano Cortina 2026 Results.

In this episode of asian like me, Dr. Sohee Jun speaks with Renee and Ann, co-leaders of TeachAAPI, about building a national education movement rooted in empowerment through storytelling, Asian entrepreneurship, and community-led innovation. With backgrounds in finance, brand strategy, and consumer insights, they share how they’re applying startup thinking to education—designing for teachers, centering student joy, and scaling Asian startup stories to reach 1 million students by 2028.

Renee and Ann’s journey offers powerful insight into inspiring stories from female entrepreneurs, success stories of women leaders, and what it looks like to build impact from the classroom up. This conversation underscores why Asian innovation stories matter—and how storytelling can reshape identity, leadership, and belonging.

To learn more about Dr. Sohee Jun & asian, like me... podcast, please visit: www.soheejunphd.com

To learn more about Renee & Ann's work with TeachAAPI, please visit: www.teachaapi.org

In this episode, I’m sharing why I’ve stopped forcing January to be about goals, vision boards, and having it all figured out—and why February has become the true beginning of my year. By honoring winter rhythms, rest, and spaciousness, I’ve found a more aligned way to re-emerge with clarity and intention.

I also reflect on the meaning of February through Lunar New Year, Galentine’s traditions, books, and the power of female friendships. This episode is an invitation to slow down, question the calendar, and begin again in a way that actually feels true to you.

To learn more about Dr. Sohee Jun & asian, like me... podcast, please visit: www.soheejunphd.com

We explore how Covered California supports millions of residents, why affordability and access are inseparable, and how policy decisions directly shape whether people seek care at all. Dr. Soni shares insights into the behavioral health crisis, the lasting effects of the pandemic on care delivery, and why telehealth has become a permanent part of the healthcare landscape rather than a temporary solution.

The conversation also digs into disparities — particularly around mental health utilization — and the structural reasons some communities remain hesitant or unable to access care. Dr. Soni explains why representation in the healthcare workforce matters, how allies can help bridge gaps, and why systems must take responsibility rather than placing the burden on patients.

Along the way, Dr. Soni offers clear, practical advice for navigating healthcare visits and emphasizes the importance of preparation, communication, and support. He reflects on leadership during uncertainty, the fear that arises when coverage is threatened, and the courage required to act in service of long-term outcomes rather than short-term comfort.

This episode is for anyone thinking about healthcare beyond the individual appointment — and for those working to create systems that are fair, transparent, and accountable. It’s a conversation about care, power, and the responsibility that comes with scale.

Key Themes & Takeaways

The relationship between healthcare policy and patient behavior

Telehealth as a tool for access, not a cure-all

Mental health disparities and systemic barriers

Workforce diversity and cultural responsiveness

Patient empowerment and preparation

Leading through fear and uncertainty

Powerful Moments

On Access:

“Access isn’t just availability — it’s whether people feel safe using it.”

On Systems:

“Large systems have to own their outcomes.”

On Fear:

“When coverage feels unstable, people delay care — and that has consequences.”

On Patients:

“Your voice matters, and preparation helps it land.”

Reflection Questions

What barriers prevent people from accessing care in your community?

How does fear influence healthcare decisions — personally or systemically?

Where can accountability improve outcomes?

What role does representation play in trust?

How can healthcare systems shift from reactive to proactive?

About the Guest

Dr. Soni is a primary care physician and senior healthcare leader at Covered California, where he helps guide clinical strategy and health equity efforts for millions of residents. His work bridges frontline care and policy, with a focus on trust, access, and system-wide improvement.

#asianlikeme #HealthEquity #HealthcareLeadership #AllyshipInAction #PrimaryCare #MentalHealthMatters #AsianAmericanHealth #PatientAdvocacy #PublicHealth #ValuesDrivenLeadership #WomenInMedicine #SystemsChange

I’m pulling back the curtain on what high-achieving women rarely say out loud: how “success” can still feel like depletion… and how many of us are quietly drowning in shoulds, people-pleasing, and the fear of disappointing others. If you’ve ever felt like your ambition is at war with your wellbeing, this episode is for you.

I’ll walk you through the reckoning that changed everything—why I chose to press pause, what my real (messy, not-Instagram) sabbatical looked like, and the practices that helped me come back to myself: saying no even when it felt scary, flow journaling, letting grief surface, spending time outdoors, and yes… giving myself permission to be bored. On the other side of that pause, a new vision emerged—one rooted in alignment, wholeness, and community.

This episode is an invitation: let’s make 2026 the year we drop the hustle mask—and redefine success in a way that doesn’t cost us ourselves.

In this episode, we talk about:

The “silent epidemic” of depletion so many high-achieving women live with

Why saying yes can feel safer than honoring your boundaries

People-pleasing, over-functioning, and the fear underneath “keeping it all together”

What it really takes to step off the treadmill without losing yourself (or your momentum)

Why reinvention isn’t grand—it’s messy, honest, and deeply human

Reclaiming joy, creativity, rest, and identity beyond performance

The vision for Asian Like Me this year—and the spaces we’re building together

Quotes you can sit with:

“Achievement was my armor.”

“Burnout takes different shapes and forms throughout our lives.”

“Let’s make 2026 the year we drop the hustle mask.”

Reflection Questions (from this episode)

What is one way you can honor your burnout and commit to caring for yourself this year?

Where might you swap people-pleasing for self-compassion?

What dream have you put on hold that you’d love to revisit—not out of obligation, but for your own joy?

Mentioned in this episode

The Aligned Mindset (my second book)

Mommy Tracked (for anyone balancing career + family and redefining success)

EVRten — a wellness movement and community rooted in nourishment: body, mind, and coming back to yourself

A first-ever Asian Like Me in-person summer event (details coming via newsletter)

#asianlikeme #BurnoutRecovery #HighAchievingWomen #AsianWomen #PeoplePleasing #Boundaries #SelfCompassion #RedefineSuccess #PurposeOverPerfection #WomenInLeadership #Healing #evrten

We talk about what it means to stop shape-shifting for approval, to choose yourself in rooms that weren’t built for you, and to lead in a way that honors both your ambition and your humanity. Hoai shares how she’s learned to own her story without bitterness, set boundaries without guilt, and build a career where her presence in any space is intentional and rooted in purpose.

This conversation is for anyone who has ever felt the pressure to overperform, be “the good one,” or carry it all alone—especially Asian women and women of color navigating corporate systems. It’s also a loving reminder that taking care of yourself is not indulgent; it’s foundational to doing the hard, meaningful work you’re called to do.

Key Themes & Takeaways

Leading with values: aligning your mindset, daily actions, and decisions

Moving away from perfectionism and people-pleasing toward purpose and integrity

Naming and unlearning the “shape-shifting” many Asian professionals experience

Building real, human relationships with supervisors and teams

Why self-care is a leadership practice, not a reward

Redefining freedom—not as “do whatever you want” but as inner permission and mindset

Powerful Moments

On Choice & Ownership

“I'm not bitter about my choices because they're mine.” – Hoai Scott

On Service, Not Selfishness

“It is not selfish. It is in service. Of giving the best.” – Sohee Jun

On Being Willing to Stand Out

“In order to make a difference, you have to be different.” – Hoai Scott

On Shame & Healing

“My belief is if you give it air, you talk about it and own it, it dissipates. The power of that shame dissipates.” – Sohee Jun

On Capacity & Hard Work

“You cannot do hard work without taking care of yourself.” – Hoai Scott

Reflection Questions

Where are you abandoning your own values in order to belong—and what would it look like to gently come back to yourself?

In which spaces do you feel pressure to “shape-shift,” and what is one small way you could show up more as you?

What choices in your career do you need to fully own, so you can move forward without regret or resentment?

How might your leadership change if you treated rest, care, and boundaries as part of your job description?

If you believed your presence in a room was intentional and necessary, how would you lead, speak, or decide differently?

Resources & Topics Mentioned

Values-based and integrity-centered leadership

Identity, refugee roots, and navigating corporate America as an Asian woman

Leadership development, executive presence, and workplace culture

Social justice, inclusion, and creating spaces of belonging at work

Mental fitness, shame resilience, and self-care for high-achieving leaders

Recommended by Hoai:

📚 The Gifts of Imperfection by Brené Brown — on courage, shame, and embracing who you are

📚 Positive Intelligence by Shirzad Chamine — on quieting inner saboteurs and strengthening your sage

🧊 Cold therapy and nervous system support — including science-backed insights from Huberman Lab

About the Guest

Hoai Scott is a Senior Vice President and values-driven executive who leads at the intersection of people, culture, and impact. As a Vietnamese refugee who built a successful corporate career, she brings a nuanced lens to leadership, equity, and what it means to belong. Hoai is committed to creating workplaces where people can do hard, meaningful work without losing themselves in the process—and where difference is recognized as a source of power, not a problem to fix.

#asianlikeme #ValuesBasedLeadership #PurposeDrivenWork #AuthenticLeadership #CorporateImpact #SocialJustice #InclusiveLeadership #ExecutiveWomen #WomenInHR

Lorraine opens up about the lessons she learned at LinkedIn and Prezi, how she developed her EPIC career brand framework, and what it really takes to get promoted, advocate for yourself, and manage your career with intention. She also shares how introversion can be a superpower in a world built for extroverts, and how every “scary new step” builds the confidence to take the next one.

This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt stuck in their career, struggled to advocate for themselves, or questioned if they’re ready to make a bold move. It’s also a reminder that confidence is built in the doing—and that your story, no matter where you are in your journey, is worth sharing.

Key Themes & Takeaways

How to become the CEO of your own career

Building presence and visibility as an introvert

The EPIC framework: Experiences, Personality, Identity, and Community

Advocating for yourself and managing up effectively

Redefining success and work-life balance as an entrepreneur

How layoffs and “scary moments” can become growth catalysts

Powerful Moments

On Taking Ownership:

"Things shouldn’t just happen to you—you can make things happen. You can influence outcomes."

On Confidence:

"Every scary new step I took was such a confidence booster for me. The growth happens in the doing."

On Introversion:

"Introverts have superpowers—deep connection, empathy, and thoughtful communication. You can be visible on your own terms."

Reflection Questions:

Where are you waiting for someone else to “see” your potential instead of advocating for yourself?

How do you want to be seen in your career—and what can you do to bridge the gap between that vision and others’ perceptions?

What “scary next step” might actually be your biggest confidence builder?

How can you honor your own rhythm as an introvert or ambivert in a world that rewards extroversion?

How might you redefine success or balance in this current chapter of your career?

Resources & Topics Mentioned:

Lorraine’s book: Unforgettable Presence

EPIC Career Brand Framework (Experiences, Personality, Identity, Community)

Managing up and setting proactive career chats

Power of feedback and 360 reviews

Public speaking as a visibility strategy for introverts

About the Guest

Lorraine Lee is a keynote speaker, LinkedIn Learning instructor, and former editor at LinkedIn. She’s passionate about helping professionals build an unforgettable presence—both in person and online. As the author of Unforgettable Presence, Lorraine combines her corporate experience and personal journey as an introvert to teach others how to stand out authentically, lead with confidence, and build careers that align with their values.

Key Themes & Takeaways:

Redefining Identity, Layer by Layer:

Sherrlene opens up about what it was like to grow up as a half-Korean, half-African American woman—never “enough” of either, yet ultimately embracing her unique place in the world. Together, she and So Hee reflect on the ache of not fitting in, the power in choosing the middle, and how true belonging often starts within.

The Courage to Be Seen:

The conversation spotlights those tender moments of feeling alone, wishing to swap features, and struggling to bridge the language gap in family. Sherrlene invites us to embrace our full, complicated selves: “It’s more of just being me. Just being your true, authentic self.”

Honoring Every Heritage:

Discover how Sherrlene’s parenting journey is guided by radical inclusivity—raising her son with an open awareness of his Korean, African American, Italian, and Caucasian backgrounds, all while letting him follow his own path. Dr. So Hee shares her own family’s mosaic and the ways food, traditions, and everyday choices can help connect us to culture, even with imperfect language.

Spiritual Journeys & Self-Compassion:

Both women speak vulnerably on finding peace and light through meditation, connection with nature, and letting go of rigid expectations—of themselves and their children. There’s gentle wisdom here for anyone reconsidering what “success” or “balance” truly means.

Community, Healing, and Ripples:

From childhoods marked by independence to the intentional creation of warmth and presence in their own families, Sherrlene and So Hee model how vulnerability transforms not just the self but community. And they remind us: It’s never too late to connect, ask new questions, or rewrite old patterns.

Actionable Reflections:

Ask yourself: What “layers” of identity have I hidden or wished away? How can I make space for my full self?

How does your family show love? Are there new rituals—like cooking together, affection, or words—that you want to bring forward?

For fellow entrepreneurs and leaders: How does your story shape the way you show up and lead? Where can authenticity fuel meaningful change—not just checkboxes of “diversity”?

Notice the “protective eyes” in your life: What are you doing to shield your spirit? What can you rebrand or let go of to feel more aligned and safe?

Consider, as Sherrlene does: What would it look like to let go—just a little bit—and trust the unfolding of your (or your child’s) path?

Quotable Moments:

“I grew up where I wasn’t black enough, but also I wasn’t Korean enough. … But now I’m embracing it. Embracing me. And I hope others will do that too.”

“You carry a lot of deep stories and struggles as a mixed race individual. … Communicate it—get it out there. Don’t keep it in.”

“This journey is about owning your identity, advocating for yourself, speaking your truth, and breaking stereotypes along the way.”

For the Modern Asian Woman and Allies: This space is your invitation to feel seen, held, and empowered. We celebrate the real stories, the layered journeys, and the remixing of what it means to thrive as a modern Asian woman in today’s world.

Connect, Reflect, and Share: Which layers of this conversation resonated most with you? What’s one way you will honor your “messy middle” this week? Your story matters. Share your reflections and continue the ripple.

— SEASON FOCUS:

Amplifying the stories, boldness, and authenticity of today’s Asian women and cultural shifters. Join us inside the ALM community, where your voice, your heritage, and your journey are all worthy—messiness and all.

In this transformative episode of asian, like me..., Dr. Sohee Jun sits down with therapist, author, and digital mental health expert Israa Nasir to unpack the silent epidemic of toxic productivity among high-achieving women—especially those from immigrant and Asian backgrounds.

Israa Nasir, the author of Toxic Productivity: Reclaim Your Time and Emotional Energy in a World That Always Demands More, shares how unchecked hustle culture often masks deeper unresolved emotions like shame, guilt, fear of not being good enough, and comparison. Together, Sohee and Israa explore how internalized expectations, generational trauma, and social media amplify the pressure to “do it all.”

Through vulnerable storytelling, clinical insight, and actionable guidance, Israa invites us to redefine our relationship with success, set meaningful boundaries, and embrace the soft life—one built on agency, emotional clarity, and intentional rest.

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

“Children benefit from moms who feel balanced and happy—not perfect.” – Sohee Jun

"Unhealthy productivity is driven by unresolved emotions we don’t want to face." – Israa Nasir

“I used to hold my breath through things. Now I stretch and breathe.” – Sohee Jun

"Culture is made up—and we are allowed to redefine our own traditions." – Israa Nasir

“It’s a continual relearning—reaffirming my boundaries every season.” – Sohee Jun

“You don’t have to do everything someone else is doing just because you can.” – Israa Nasir

“Getting curious allows us to explore what’s possible and what’s underneath.” – Sohee Jun

"Boundaries are seasonal, just like productivity—and that’s okay." – Israa Nasir

“We are so much more connected than we are different.” – Sohee Jun

This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to heal from overachievement, find alignment with their true values, and create space for joy without guilt.

#asianlikeme #ToxicProductivity #ModernAsianWoman #HighAchievingWomen #MentalHealthMatters #RestIsProductive #SoftLifeMovement #RedefineSuccess #EmotionalWellness #BoundariesAreHealthy #CulturalIdentity #ImmigrantDaughter #WomenWhoLead #UndoTheHustle #BurnoutRecovery #AsianAmericanVoices

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"Pain pushes until a vision pulls. We can look back at all of the pain and the discomfort and realize it was because I had to hit rock bottom." – Susanna Peace Lovell

"Kids teach us so much. They are either presenting us with things that are still very raw in us, or things that we need to look at or pivot around our mindset, our heart, our soul." – Sohee Jun

"What's good for me is good for the universe. What's great for me is great for Arizona. Instead of just being this sacrificial lamb at every turn." – Susanna Peace Lovell

"When we can give to ourselves and do real self care that is meaningful for us, and when we can invite in more joy and expansiveness and a mindset around those two things, then we can be in greater service to those that we love." – Sohee Jun

"If our kiddos did not see us enjoying and thriving, what do you think they would lean into for themselves?" – Susanna Peace Lovell

That 1% different makes all the difference." – Sohee Jun

This conversation offers profound insights for parents of children with special needs and anyone navigating life's unexpected challenges while trying to maintain their sense of self.

#AsianLikeMe #SpecialNeedsParenting #AutismAwareness #AsianAmericanWomen #AsianAmericanVoices #MotherhoodJourney #FindingJoy #SelfCare #CulturalIdentity #AsianRepresentation #WomenEmpowerment #ParentingWithPurpose #NeurodivergentParenting #MentalHealthAwareness #PostpartumJourney #DisabilityAdvocate

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"I think we could learn so much from what advice we would give our younger selves, because others can benefit from that wisdom too." – Sohee Jun

"I realized that my ego had to be set aside so that I could take care of myself, because your ego's not gonna help you when you're dead." – Angela Cheng-Cimini

"I've always believed that the way to move through fear is through it. You have to be willing to sit in the muck, in the murky, in the scary, in all of the feelings." – Sohee Jun 

"Tomorrow is a day to be better. That's all you can do - learn from your mistakes and be better. At some point, the written and verbal apologies don't matter. It's how you show up differently the next time." – Angela Cheng-Cimini

"My philosophy is that my kids are on loan to me. It's my job to develop them, give them opportunities, get out of their way, and support them." – Sohee Jun 

"Don't waste your time in a toxic job. Don't waste your time working for someone who doesn't value you. Time is the thing for me." – Angela Cheng-Cimini

"Thriving for me now looks different than it did when I was in my twenties and thirties. Even in my forties as I enter another decade soon.Thriving is all about quality and lots of space to explore what I'm curious about and less about rushing." – Sohee Jun 

"A modern Asian female is taking the best of all the progressive rights that women have accumulated and matching that with our Asian values of hard work, teammanship, collaboration, and humility to make the best version of ourselves for this generation and next." – Angela Cheng-Cimini

This conversation presents a masterclass in defining personal thriving, embracing authenticity, and creating a legacy that honors both cultural heritage and personal ambitions.

#asianlikeme #AsianVoices #RedefiningSuccess #IntentionalLiving #PersonalThriving #CorporateChallenges #SelfAdvocacy #AsianWomenInLeadership #PurposefulChoices #AuthenticLiving #LegacyBuilding #WorkLifeBalance #ParentingAdultChildren #CulturalHeritage #LeadershipJourney #OvercomingFear #PurposeDrivenLife #WellnessJourney #WomenInCorporate #WomenEmpowerment #ModernAsianWomen #WorkplaceInclusion #CareerTransitions

From moving to the U.S. in her early twenties to becoming a respected voice in leadership and workplace dynamics, Selena shares the pivotal moments that shaped her confidence. She opens up about navigating self-doubt, quieting her inner critic, and ultimately redefining what it means to be a modern Asian woman in leadership.

This conversation dives deep into the power of sponsorship, the importance of being seen and heard in professional spaces, and how Asian women can turn cultural perspectives into leadership superpowers. Selena’s insights will inspire you to advocate for yourself, own your identity unapologetically, and reframe your narrative from limitation to strength.

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"What lights me up is this newer version of me. I feel not only confident, but more importantly, I feel very comfortable with who I am, especially comfortable with my flaws." – Selena Yuan

"For me, it's about enjoying the journey much more than the outcome. It's like the reframe is focusing less on the outcome and just being in the moment and the process, which helps you learn." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"I will not be treated disrespectfully. I will not be talked over or completely dismissed. Once I have that clarity, then who cares? It's a failure, mistake, or success. It doesn't matter. I stayed true to myself, and I did what I think is right." – Selena Yuan

"It's really about shifting perspectives, which is a muscle that many of us need to strengthen. And I love to use the analogy of a muscle that's atrophied." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"What I admire most about modern Asian women is someone who's clear about her self-identity. I am unapologetically Chinese. Our culture and values made me who I am today. What I'm advocating for is a 2.0 version that fully embraces culture and values while also accepting and celebrating you." – Selena Yuan

"You can control your action and reaction. And by the way, it builds self-trust, so much more self-trust, which is beautiful." – Dr. Sohee Jun

Selena’s journey is a masterclass in self-advocacy, owning your voice, and redefining success on your terms. If you’ve ever questioned your place in the room or held back from speaking up, this episode will give you the courage to take up space—unapologetically.

🎧 Hit play now and start owning your greatness.

#AsianWomenLeaders #ModernAsianIdentity #StrategicLeadership #WomenInBusiness #AsianLikeMe #CulturalIdentity #LeadershipJourney #SelfAcceptance #AAPI

Eva reveals her mission to provide her daughters with experiences different from her own upbringing, allowing them the freedom to discover their own strengths. The discussion dives deep into breaking free from family conditioning, developing resilience against rejection, and the importance of maintaining integrity in both business and personal growth. Eva shares her practical approaches to time blocking, consistency in fitness, and the mindset shifts that transformed her professional success rate from 30% to 90%.

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"If you believe it, it's true. If you don't believe it, it's also true. It's all about your beliefs. Right? And I think my second half of my life was a journey, my quest to get rid of the belief that I was given early on." – Eva Lin

"Whether we're Asian females, no matter what heritage, nationality, where we come from, there is that part of us that wants deep love from the most important person, whoever that is in our lives. And if that isn't provided, it is like our life's mission to undo that need and really give it to ourselves." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"The overnight success is after ten years of consistently doing the same thing and getting better at it to get to where I am." – Eva Lin

"I want people and women to know that you can, one, find the help if you look. It's probably closer in your orbit than you think. They're there for you, and you do deserve it." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"It's always the small things that make the biggest impact. And when you take these to heart, that's when you will see the biggest result and the biggest impact. And not just for you, but also for those that you love." – Eva Lin

"Isn't that what we're here on this planet to do is to not leave our traumas with our kids? That's the work." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"If I were not here tomorrow, how would I be remembered? Have I made an impact in their lives in a positive way? And those are the questions that I always have when I'm being intentional about doing things." – Eva Lin

This episode offers powerful insights for anyone looking to rewrite limiting beliefs, build authentic confidence, and define success on their own terms. Eva's journey exemplifies what it means to be a modern Asian woman—being an example of what's possible when you believe in yourself and take intentional action.

#AsianLikeMe #AAPI #FamilyConditioning #WomenInRealEstate #PersonalDevelopment #RepresentationMatters #WomenEmpowerment #IntentionalParenting #AsianSuccess #MindfulMotherhood

The discussion navigates the critical difference between mentorship and sponsorship, with both women offering practical insights on building a personal "board of directors" across career stages. They thoughtfully deconstruct the myth of work-life balance, especially for women, advocating instead for intentional choices and self-compassion. Zeena's raw honesty about age, career pivots, and finding purpose beyond accolades offers listeners a refreshing perspective on defining success on your own terms. 

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"You are not your accolades. Your value isn't defined by your achievements but by the integrity and authenticity you bring to everything you do." – Zeena Koda 

"Don't seek one mentor for everything. Build a tribe of advisors who each bring different strengths and perspectives to your journey."

– Dr. Sohee Jun

"Make it easy for people to help you. Be specific about what you need, and doors will open that you didn't even know existed." – Zeena Koda 

"Peer mentorship is undervalued but often most sustainable. The colleagues beside you today may be your greatest supporters tomorrow." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"Grit isn't about hustle culture – it's about showing up consistently, especially when it's difficult, and trusting that persistence creates breakthrough moments." – Zeena Koda 

"Toxic positivity masks the real struggles we all face. True empowerment comes from acknowledging challenges while still moving forward." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"Seeing someone who looked like me on television changed what I believed was possible. That's why representation isn't just symbolic – it's transformative." – Dr. Sohee Jun

This episode is a masterclass in resilience, authenticity, and the revolutionary power of showing up as your full self in spaces where representation matters.

#AsianLikeMe #PodcastEpisode #AsianAmericanVoices #AAPI #AsianAmericanWomen #RepresentationMatters #WomenInLeadership #AsianAmericanCollective #CulturalIdentity

Jerry reveals how losing his job in 2019 became the catalyst for creating content that amplifies Asian American voices, particularly during the challenging early pandemic period when anti-Asian sentiment was rising. The conversation explores how Jerry transformed personal crisis into opportunity by launching a podcast that eventually led to speaking engagements and a thriving business centered around authentic storytelling.

The episode delves into thought-provoking discussions about representation, the evolving landscape of DEI initiatives, and the unique experiences of Korean American men. Jerry emphasizes the importance of "showing up" in spaces where Asian Americans are traditionally underrepresented, from Little League coaching to PTA meetings, challenging listeners to redefine narratives through their visible presence.

With his upcoming book on storytelling and empowerment set for early 2026, Jerry offers powerful insights on personal branding that focus less on tactics and more on the mindset of service. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand how owning your story can create pathways for others and why representation matters now more than ever.

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"I had been allowing myself to be conditioned and to be taught all things about business and life and leadership through the lens of a whole bunch of people that knew nothing about what it was to live my life." – Jerry Won

"I've always said don't keep it a secret. That doesn't help anyone. Pass it along because it's in service of helping and empowering others." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"Your story, your perspective, your life, your everything is a hell of a lot more relatable than you ever think." – Jerry Won

"My job is to have my own responsible owner's mindset and do better or do differently in a way that resonates with me." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"If I can plant the conviction in your heart that your story matters, and every time you share it, you're helping somebody, you're gonna care less about how you actually do it." – Jerry Won

"I've also done the work of undoing blame and saying they did the best that they could, which I truly believe, in my hard parts, they really did the best." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"The more alone you feel in thinking that you've had a unique experience... the size of your audience may not be the entire Earth, but let me tell you... there are people who only you can help." – Jerry Won

#asianlikeme #AsianAmericanVoices #AuthenticStorytelling #RepresentationMatters #CulturalIdentity #AsianAmericanExperience #FatherhoodJourney #RedefiningSuccess #VoiceAndVisibility #DEILeadership #PersonalBrandingWithPurpose #FromSilenceToStory #OwnYourNarrative

From her journey as a television journalist to founding Soulcast Media, Jessica reveals powerful strategies for Asian women to advocate for themselves, celebrate their wins, and bridge cultural values with workplace expectations. The conversation explores how to transform traditional Asian values of humility and harmony into professional strengths, the importance of being your own cheerleader, and practical communication tactics for getting noticed at work for all the right reasons.

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"If it's something that you really care about, you gotta make sure that you keep talking about it. And if it's a decision that somebody needs to make, then you keep following up." – Jessica Chen

"It's a journey for me to continuously remind myself. I don't have to go full throttle. Just enjoy the process, which feels different." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"Doing good work is expected. Everybody has to do good work. You're hired to do good work. But the other half is your ability to make sure people know about it." – Jessica Chen

"One of the biggest lessons for me has been—and this is what I coach women around—is like, it is a season of your life. And it's not about balance because I know in my experience that if I try to balance something, I end up burning out." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"I call it building your credibility jar. You do a lot of good work, putting that into the jar, and one day, you gotta cash it in. You cash it in by asking for what you want."

– Jessica Chen

"One of the things that I believe was the beauty of having children is that it allowed me to get reintegrated into my culture, really just bringing that part out that I had lost for so many years." – Dr. Sohee Jun

This episode provides actionable advice for anyone navigating cultural expectations while building a successful career, from creating a "yay folder" to document achievements to mastering the art of strategic follow-up. Jessica and Sohee's candid discussion offers wisdom on embracing cultural identity, reframing mindsets, and defining success as a modern Asian woman in today's professional landscape.

#AsianLikeMe #WomenEmpowerment #CareerGrowth #AsianLeadership #CulturalIdentity #RepresentationMatters #CommunicationSkills #ExecutivePresence #CareerSuccess #SelfAdvocacy #OwnYourVoice #SpeakUp #VisibilityMatters #SmartNotSilent

Clarissa Reformina shares her story of moving from the Philippines to America at age three, navigating the complexities of assimilation while maintaining her cultural identity. She reveals how her early passion for music led her to pursue a career in the industry, despite traditional family expectations to follow a more conventional path. Through unpacking her experiences with disruption—from Napster to streaming to AI—Clarissa Reformina offers powerful insights on resilience, opportunity-seeking, and maintaining curiosity in an ever-changing landscape.

The conversation dives deep into the importance of self-care practices during challenging times, overcoming fear, and the dangers of perfectionism ingrained in many Asian cultures. A journey that you can definitely relate to as it offers valuable lessons on courage, resilience, and finding joy in the process rather than just focusing on outcomes.

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"Comparison is the thief of joy. When you compare yourself to another person, you're questioning yourself really at the end of the day." – Clarissa Reformina

"If you don't process through by feeling it, acknowledging it, and then identifying how you move forward, it really will come back to bite you in different ways." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"Being able to see through the chaos, ground yourself, and find opportunity in those moments, that's really what's exciting for me." – Clarissa Reformina

"I love the process. Let me just loosen my grip on those things a little bit and be in the now and enjoy what is happening in the process, less focus on the outcome." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"If you find something you're passionate about and you work really hard—I'm not saying it's easy, it's never going to be easy—but if you're willing to figure it out, the opportunities do come to you. You just need to be resilient." – Clarissa Reformina

"Even if you are in a creative field, know how the business makes money. Be savvy about what's going on outside of the company in the industry." – Dr. Sohee Jun

Whether you're navigating career transitions, seeking to balance cultural expectations with personal ambitions, or simply looking for inspiration, this conversation provides actionable wisdom on thriving through life's inevitable disruptions while staying true to yourself.

#AsianLikeMe #FilipinaPower #MusicIndustry #Resilience #CulturalIdentity #CareerGrowth #SelfCare #AsianWomen

Son Kim shares candid insights on navigating the startup world, the power of asking for help, and her passion for empowering women to take up space in leadership roles. As a member of Citrine Angels, she is committed to closing the gender funding gap, reminding us that less than 2% of VC funding goes to women—and even less to minority women.

Through honest storytelling, Sohee and Son discuss the evolving landscape for Asian women in business, the importance of supportive communities, and how cultural heritage shapes our perspectives. If you've ever felt the pressure to “do it all,” this conversation is a must-listen. This episode is a rallying cry for Asian women to pursue their dreams, break through barriers, and lift each other up.

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"Every person, if you're helping, you're moving the needle." – Son Kim

"If you're starting a business, don’t overthink it. Just start. If you're solving a need, it’s worth pursuing." – Son Kim

"Asking for help doesn’t make you weak. If anything, it makes you stronger because you’re putting aside your pride and ego." – Son Kim

"I don’t do it all. None of us do. It takes people, resources, and support behind the scenes." – Dr. Sohee Jun

"I knew that supermom with the superpower of being able to get super focused at work, then go home and do what she needs to. Because I was that person." – Dr. Sohee Jun

Sheena, author of "The Tao of Self-Confidence" and the upcoming "Bridging the Confidence Gap," shares insights on breaking cultural barriers, challenging traditions, and empowering women to step into their full potential. The discussion touches on representation in media, navigating cultural expectations, and practical strategies for building confidence in both personal and professional spheres.

Inspirational Quotes from this episode:

"Being fearless is not about having no fears. It's about having them and moving forward anyway and doing it anyway." -Sheena Yap Chan

"Being a modern Asian female is someone who just owns their power, stepping into whatever path life takes them, forging their own path, being okay that what you're doing is not considered the norm." -Sheena Yap Chan

"To be our biggest, boldest self doesn't mean that we have to be on stage or write a book. However that looks for you is your unique path to being the boldest version of you." -Dr. Sohee Jun

"The most beautiful things in life are super simple." -Dr. Sohee Jun

Tune in to this inspiring conversation about redefining success, embracing authenticity, and creating positive change for the next generation of Asian women.

#AsianWomenLeadership #AsianRepresentation #WomensEmpowerment #CulturalIdentity #AAPI #AsianAmerican #AsianLikeMe

Drawing from both research and personal experience, she explores how cultural identity shapes professional growth and personal development. Dr. Jun discusses the challenges she faced - from trying to erase her cultural identity in her youth to learning to advocate for herself in corporate settings - and how these experiences inform her work with Asian women leaders today.

Inspirational Quotes from Dr. Sohee Jun from this episode:

"To be a modern Asian female means we're dynamic, we're growth-focused, and we're limitless - with potential and possibilities defined by our own values."

"We are Asian and we are American... it is about embodying the best of that and incorporating it into who we are."

"I want us to amplify what is working. I wanna amplify how we are making it through and showing up for ourselves and each other so that we can do more of that."

This episode sets the foundation for authentic conversations about what it means to be a modern Asian woman, challenging traditional narratives while celebrating cultural heritage and personal growth.

#AsianWomenLeadership #AsianRepresentation #WomensEmpowerment #CulturalIdentity #AAPI #AsianAmerican #AsianLikeMe