An Immigrant’s Life

Shital Patel a world traveler and one of my favorite people, is today's podcast guest! Once a Safari Rani, she now navigates the vibrant streets of Ottawa. As a first-generation kid, she embodies the spirit of adventure and the transformative effects of travel. Shital believes solo travel is the best way to explore the world, encouraging openness and curiosity along the journey. Join us as we discuss why traveling is essential for personal growth and discovery. Follow her journey @blamemywildheart!       

Excited to welcome my brother, Jet Labrador, back to the podcast! This time, he's diving into the incredible journey of becoming a new dad. From the dreams he has for his little one to the fears that keep him up at night, Jet shares it all. We chat about the challenges of balancing his passion for comic book portrait art with fatherhood and the moments that fill him with joy. Whether you're a parent or just curious about the dad life, this episode is packed with insights and laughs. Tune in for a heartfelt conversation that showcases the beautiful chaos of raising a child while pursuing your dreams!

In this episode, I welcome back my good friend Johnny F. Kim to discuss his journey after being laid off from a job he loved, which led him back to his creative roots. While the experience initially shook him, it ultimately opened doors to newfound freedom and inspiration. We explore his passion for jumping rope, how it helps him manage anxiety, and why he advocates for it. Johnny shares insights on discipline in his art, the ways we inspire each other, and dealing with insecurities.       

Meet Shayne Nuesca an award-winning journalist whose journey into the field was entirely unexpected. Growing up with limited parental guidance, she faced imposter syndrome rooted in a childhood where affection often took a backseat to her immigrant parents' relentless work ethic.      Her experiences in a diverse community starkly contrasted with life in a less diverse setting, igniting her passion for representation. Through her work with Mana, Shayne finds deep fulfillment as she strives to uplift Filipino voices and create meaningful change.      

In this episode, we delve into the transformative journey of Amir Timur, an IT Manager who navigated the darkness of racism and personal struggle to discover his path to healing. Timur's story is one of profound self-discovery, where he initially distanced himself from his family to confront his inner demons through shadow work, therapy, self-reflection, and meditation. Despite his proud heritage as a descendant of prominent Uzbek leaders in the U.S., he chose to forge his own path, blending Uzbek and American cultures in his life. His journey included moving several times due to racial adversity and eventually finding reconciliation with his family through the aid of psychedelics and deep introspection. Timur's narrative is a powerful testament to trusting one's instincts and embracing the process of self-healing and cultural integration.    

Angela Lawrence is a Business consultant who perfectly embodies the third culture kid experience, having lived her early life in India and rest in Houston. Her frequent moves taught her adaptability and connecting with diverse people. Driven by an entrepreneurial spirit, she left a good opportunity in New York to start a consulting business in Houston, aiming to support small immigrant businesses. Through her work, she advocates for smarter, not harder, work practices. Angela's journey also involves confronting generational trauma and learning from those unlike herself, demonstrating resilience and the power of growth through diverse experiences.     

Téa Ivanovic, Co-founder of Immigrant Food, shares her journey and the secret to her success as a restaurateur. She discusses her involvement with Immigrant Food and the restaurant's goal of celebrating immigrants through cuisine. Téa explains their projects that support immigrant communities and highlights America as the original immigrant nation. She also emphasizes the crucial role of immigration in economic growth and reflects on the valuable lessons learned from working with fellow immigrants.    

Chachie Abara is dedicated community organizer with Kasamahan Co champions mental health and cultural preservation. Despite relocating to Hawaii, she remains committed to speaking Ilocano to honor her heritage and keep her native dialect alive. Chachie sheds light on native Hawaiian views towards Filipinos and reflects on the profound feeling of not belonging during her visit to the Philippines, a place she once called home. Her story highlights the importance of maintaining cultural connections and learning Ilocano even while living in the US.

William Gee Wong, a journalist and author, joined the podcast to discuss his recent book, “Sons of Chinatown”. The book intertwines his father's immigrant experiences with his own, highlighting a successful immigration story that began with his father arriving in the U.S. with false documents. We also explored America's contradictory relationship with immigrants and examined the current state of journalism. Additionally, Bill shared insights on the challenges of writing a memoir, particularly the unreliability of memory.    

Elda Almario, a dedicated therapist, founded Larô Therapy to emphasize the importance of play and its therapeutic benefits. Her journey into therapy was deeply influenced by her experience as her autistic younger brother's caregiver, which sparked her passion for mental health. Elda also discusses how her immigration experience has shaped her practice and her commitment to advocating for mental health. In her practice, she integrates these insights to support and uplift her clients, showcasing her holistic approach to therapy.       

In this candid conversation, Kiersty from “Ikarus Mind Psychotherapy” generously agreed to interview me for the 200th episode of "An Immigrant's Life." During our chat, I opened up about personal family stories that have shaped who I am today. I also shared some behind-the-scenes insights about the podcast, including details about the future of the podcast.     

Twisha Shah is a Neuroscientist and co-host of the From Suitcase to Success podcast in this episode, Twisha and I dove straight into a deep conversation. She light-heartedly shared that being an only child was due to her mom's pregnancy challenges. We explored the cultural pressure in India for male children. Twisha recounted her frustrating experience with racism in the American education system, where despite her fluency in English, she was pushed into ESL classes due to her schooling in India. Despite her challenges and minimal parental supervision as immigrants, she bravely confronted obstacles. Finding guidance from a mentor was pivotal, marking her realization of mentorship's value. We also discussed the impact of having supportive, high-value friends who have spurred her personal growth.       

Since childhood, Joyce has been driven by curiosity, often experimenting with bathroom products in hopes of creating explosions, though fortunately without success. Instead, her entrepreneurial spark ignited with Dieux Cosmetics. Growing up as a latchkey kid in an immigrant family, Joyce was cared for by an "older" cousin together with her younger cousins, a quintessential tale of a child of immigrants. Despite the mischief they got into due to minimal parental supervision, Joyce credits this upbringing for fostering her creativity. Despite a complex relationship with her mother, therapy taught her empathy, especially following her father's sudden passing, a topic she openly discusses in this episode and more.   

Dr. Syeda Sufora an optometrist, has faced profound personal challenges that have shaped her perspective on life and faith. Coming from a broken home and experiencing the end of her own marriage, she candidly discusses these trials. She recalls a pivotal time living in a women's shelter for Asian women, where a robbery underscored the vulnerability, they faced. It was during the birth of her first child that she began to confront and heal from her childhood trauma. Throughout her journey, from navigating the impact of divorce on her faith to challenging misconceptions about divorced Muslims, she offers valuable insights. As a single mother, she emphasizes the importance of self-care and establishing routines. Her experiences have led her to advocate passionately for others facing similar struggles, culminating in her empowering message of prioritizing oneself first.        

Mudra Dave, co-host of “From Suitcase to Success”, recounts her father's journey from being an engineer in India to a general worker in Canada due to the challenge of lacking "Canadian Experience." Throughout her story, she emphasizes celebrating small successes, maintaining positivity, and pursuing activities she enjoys. Dave also reflects on overcoming bullying and the significance of self-forgiveness and forgiveness of others. She acknowledges the support of allies while confronting the harsh reality that even within communities, there can be individuals who undermine others' efforts. Her message ultimately advocates for self-compassion and discourages jealousy towards immigrants.      

Alyx Ang is a Social Media manager. She came on to talk about her podcast "A for Anxious," spurred by her own experiences with anxiety and a desire to confront it through open dialogue about mental health. She discussed the challenges of familial expectations as an immigrant, particularly her parents' initial lack of understanding regarding mental health issues. She emphasized how isolating it can feel to suffer from these issues alone, underscoring the importance of conversations about anxiety. She also shared her journey in overcoming a toxic relationship with social media, highlighting her path to healthier online interactions.      

Francesca Douglass-Franco, CEO of Human Save Org. discusses her journey shaped by her upbringing with a single mother, highlighting how responsibility from a young age impacted her relationships, including with her husband. She reflects on pivotal moments like learning to prioritize breaks from her mom, and the absence of a stereotypical strict upbringing. Francesca shares personal challenges, including parenthood and navigating the complexities of sexual abuse and trafficking through her advocacy work at Human Save.     

Kiersty Xavier is the Founder & Clinical Director of Ikarus Mind Psychotherapy. We talked about her upbringing without a sense of belonging, her healing journey, and explored the impact of family dynamics, personal struggles, and the importance of therapy. We also discussed resilience, self-discovery, and the significance of vibing with your therapist.    

Connie Mansfield is the owner of PDX Fresh Start & co-founder of Jelly Cup Collective. In this episode, she shares her journey of resilience, exploring childhood trauma and the resilience of children. Connie reflects on her close connection to her Chinese roots, guided by her mother's wisdom. She discusses the challenges of balancing multiple cultures and how her mother's passing inspired her business pursuits. Connie shares the invaluable lessons she learned from her mother and the joys and challenges of parenting in a mixed-race household. Through Jelly Cup Collective, she advocates for diversity, equity, and inclusion, offering advice for those seeking to start their own collective ventures.     

From weekend cleaning rituals inherited from her dad to lessons of love from Lola Julieta, Jo Del Barrio shares her Bay Area upbringing and struggles. We delve into the challenges of preserving tradition, navigating cultural pressures, and finding solace in community support. We also explore the beauty of brown skin, the importance of positive gender roles, motherhood, and the transformative power of storytelling. From embracing faith to overcoming loss, each topic reflects resilience and growth. Discover the inspiration behind 'Her Sage Talk' podcast and the joys of connecting with our roots while creating our community.     

Brigitte Franzen left Germany for a farm internship in Illinois, never expecting to stay. Yet, the bonds she formed and her love for American life led her to build her own farm, housing 5000 pigs. However, in 1998, the rise of mega hog farms forced her to close her doors forever. Undaunted, she pivoted to become a financial planner, drawing on her farming experiences to aid others. Amidst the pandemic, she penned "Have Pigs, Will Travel," sharing tales of her life, including pig deliveries across the US. Our conversation explores her writing journey, the challenges of publishing, her advocacy for balance, her non-vegan stance, and the heartbreaking loss of her farm, offering compelling reasons to dive into her book.   

Madina Mamat-Qira is the founder of Madina Taklamakan clothing brand. From East Turkestan to Japan to Canada, she shares her challenges and triumphs as a Hijabi, the beauty of being a Muslim woman, and navigating entrepreneurship during a pandemic. Learn about her brand's origins, the influence of her mother's design instincts, her passion for painting, and her mission to propagate Uyghur culture.   

Joseph Yoo is an Episcopal pastor originally from Korea, now residing in Houston. Our conversation delves into the nuances between Catholic, United Methodist, and Episcopalian churches, providing valuable insights. He reflects on the unique pressures he faces as a Korean-American pastor's son, compounded by frequent relocations due to his father's work. Discover his courageous decision to transition from a United Methodist to an Episcopal pastorship, despite initial reluctance. We confront the challenges of being a first-generation Korean-American in a culturally specific church and navigating microaggressions in predominantly white congregations. Through it all, his unwavering faith remains a guiding light, even amidst declining church attendance trends. We touch upon the profound joy and challenges of adopting a child with autism, highlighting the resilience and love within his family.      

Anastasia Kuznetsova shares her remarkable journey from growing up in Nevinnomyssk, Russia, during the USSR's collapse to finding her artistic voice in Lisbon. Raised by her grandmothers while her parents worked, Anastasia reflects on her childhood, the challenges of academia, and her struggles with self-esteem and panic attacks. She discusses her artistic evolution, inspired by her experiences in Sri Lanka and driven by her passion for languages. Anastasia opens up about her relationships, her father's well-being in Russia, and the healing power of therapy.     

Jessica La, a professional musician of Vietnamese descent with a uniquely fitting last name. Despite parental expectations for a conventional career, she cleverly convinced them to support her musical journey. In this episode, we delve into her insights on overcoming performance anxiety through thorough preparation and the importance of taking a 'breather' to her students.   Learn what ignites her passion for music, her distinctive teaching approach, and her creative process. From enchanting events and weddings to navigating quirky gigging moments like playing piano during a first date or being mistaken for hearing impaired during an online performance, she shares her colorful experiences, and why collaboration fuels her creative fire.   

My discussion with Adrian Magno began with career transitions but quickly evolves into a heartfelt exploration of the challenges and joys of fatherhood. Adrian candidly shares his experiences of grappling with imposter syndrome and the importance of storytelling in his work. As immigrant fathers raised in Filipino households, we delve into the complexities of cultural identity and the profound impact of parenthood. Adrian reflects on his journey of self-discovery, navigating the pressures of societal expectations, and the Filipino values he hopes to pass on to his children. From the fear of failing his kids to the enduring lessons of parenthood, Adrian's story offers insights into the universal truths of fatherhood and the resilience of the human spirit.   

Dr. Tina Tang is a Retina Surgeon, embarked on a journey from Beijing, China, to Canada, then Massachusetts, and back, all while pursuing her dream career. Growing up in a small Massachusetts town as a Chinese immigrant, she grappled with her identity and the desire to fit in. Yet, the support of diverse friends helped her embrace her heritage and prioritize academics. We delve into the delicate balance between her professional and social life, and the pivotal role of mentors in her decision to specialize in retina surgery. With an unwavering commitment to her purpose, she advocates for guilt-free pursuit of dreams. Discover how she navigates surgery's emotional aspects and her insights on minimalist lessons learned from medicine and career, alongside candid discussions on imposter syndrome.     

Carlo Alcos, a second-generation immigrant, explores his identity journey in the documentary "Outsiderness." Formerly a globe-trotter, he now seeks to uncover his true sense of belonging. Our conversation delved into his upbringing in a Filipino household amidst a predominantly white environment, addressing the challenges of cultural integration. Carlo shared the catalyst for his film, recounting poignant moments of attempting to assimilate into white society. We discussed the concept of white privilege and his mission to promote diverse representation. Additionally, Carlo discussed his re-connection with Filipino culture, including learning to cook Filipino dishes. Through his documentary, he aims to bridge generational and cultural gaps, fostering a deeper connection with his family and community.    

Yesse Kim, a Classical Pianist, embarked on a journey from Seoul, South Korea, to the grand stages of Germany. Leaving behind a fractured family dynamic, Yesse's relocation to Michigan with her mother and brother marked the beginning of her odyssey. However, the geographical distance couldn't bridge the emotional chasm, ultimately leading to her parents' divorce—a pivotal moment that shaped her outlook on relationships.   As she navigated the tumultuous waters of adolescence, Yesse found solace in her piano, but societal pressures pushed her towards a career she never desired. Battling inner demons, she sought refuge in nightly drinks, until a moment of clarity prompted her to embark on a daring quest—to Germany, where her passion for classical piano would find its crescendo.   Yet, success came at a cost. The pursuit of her dreams strained her bond with her mother, further complicated by cultural expectations and body image struggles. Despite the applause and accolades on the European stage, the pandemic's arrival left her adrift, questioning her purpose.   In our candid conversation, Yesse shares the secrets behind her concert preparations, the mantra that sustains her, and how changing environments can heal wounds. From performing on stage to mentoring aspiring pianists, Yesse's story is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of music.      

Rachel Liza is a talented figure skater and YouTuber. She shares her incredible journey from being adopted from China as a baby, found by the side of a bridge, to embracing life with her white adoptive parents. We delve into her evolving feelings about her identity and the unique challenges she faces, including 'Adoption Trauma' and abandonment issues that she bravely confronts in therapy.  We also discuss her experiences growing up homeschooled and how it shaped her perspective on education and self-discovery. Additionally, we explore the world of figure skating, where she opens up about the mental hurdles and performance anxiety she navigates on the ice.  

Felice Chan is a native of Hong Kong, initially pursued Western Medicine in the US but experienced burnout. She embarked on a soul-searching journey, training as a yoga teacher in Cambodia with the full support of her twin sister. Despite parental reluctance towards Traditional Chinese Medicine, Felice found her calling with the help of her mother's guidance. Now, she thrives as an Acupuncturist, combining her passion for healing with her roots. She revealed an exclusive and exciting piece of news about her future plans as well!    

Love Tanada, a Registered Nurse from Manitoba. She shares her journey, highlighting the importance of sharing experiences. Love discusses overcoming obstacles during her 5-year quest for Canadian immigration, including her time in Abu Dhabi, where she learned did a lot of growing mentally and emotionally.    Inspired by her father's healthcare struggles during his dialysis, Love became a nurse with a strong belief in her potential. She opens up about the challenges of immigrant life in Canada, including loneliness and coping with stress-induced Bulimia, which she now manages through exercise and therapy.    Love also talks about explaining therapy to her traditional Filipino parents and embracing discomfort. She shares what she loves about healthcare, offers advice to fellow immigrant nurses, and gives her personal take on the Canadian healthcare system.      

Prescilla Jean "PJ" Olay is a Hollywood TV & Film Hairstylist, defies convention, emerging as an extraordinary individual despite her typical Catholic Filipino upbringing. Rebelling against her loving but strict religious parents, PJ endured constant moves due to immigration issues, even sharing a one-bedroom apartment with five family members. At seven, her parents made a sacrifice, returning to the Philippines so they could work in the US to save for a home, a move PJ embraced eagerly.   The upheaval of Covid prompted PJ to reevaluate her roots, confronting and shedding her "whitewashed" views. She emphasizes the importance of discussing race and addressing internalized racism, alongside her stance on young children undergoing modifications. PJ's career transitioned from aspiring music songwriter to hairstyling, with pivotal opportunities working with stars like Jung Kook and Usher.   Reflecting on the evolving beauty standards and cultural shifts, PJ discusses the significance of actors claiming Filipino heritage, and explores the journey of beauty evolution.    

Join us as we dive into the world of futures design with Ruth Isabel Guerra, a Filipina-American who relocated to Prague for her studies. In this episode, we discuss our addiction to smartphones, the future of artificial intelligence, and how we can prepare for its impact. Ruth shares insights on democratizing AI to ensure it benefits all, avoiding the creation of purposeless technologies, and redefining real progress. Discover Ruth's priorities in design, the differences in education systems between the US and Prague, and her experience of being an American in Prague. Learn about her workshops "Future for Friendly People" and "Future Stories," as well as her innovative process, "The Phenomenon Method." Tune in as we explore living in the present while contemplating the future.     

Linda Ohairwe is a passionate HR professional hailing from Uganda and now thriving in the US. From embracing her career dreams with parental support to navigating pronouns in the workplace, she's a force for inclusivity and education. In this conversation, we delve into exit interviews, resume crafting, and the nuances of remote work. Plus, gain insights on conflict resolution, active listening, and Linda's take on the ever-evolving US job market. Amidst her journey, she shares experiences of resilience, from encountering micro-racism in the Deep South to finding solace in her identity as a global citizen.      

John Hong Kim is an Orthopedic Nurse. He opened about the impact of putting himself out there, particularly through TikTok, and shared how this exposure unveiled the true nature of his support system. It became a revealing experience, separating genuine supporters from the rest and prompting introspection into his purpose as a content creator.   John also shared a story of a twist of fate with his roommate, almost akin to the movie “Trading Places,” which steered him towards the pursuit of nursing. Passionate about taking care of people and enhancing their well-being, he found his calling as a nurse and now specializes as an Orthopedic Nurse.    He honestly shared his opinions on various topics, including the distinctions between physical therapy and chiropractic practices, his take on the Body Positivity Movement, and his thoughts on the carnivore diet. He also delved into the positive effects of fasting and explored the ideal diet that resonates with him. John addressed how he reconciles his belief in science with his faith in religion.     

Emon Surakitkoson, an abstract artist from Baltimore, came on the podcast to share her journey from coming to the US from Thailand to be close to her sister, all the while discovering the US as the land of opportunity. From battling depression while working in a bar to finding solace in art, Emon embodies the 'Immigrant Mentality'— starting small and utilizing whatever materials she could find, using only black and white paint. No excuses, just pure determination. She unveils the transformative power of art in building confidence and narrates her story of resilience. From the challenges she faced to the impactful message she has for fellow immigrants, Emon gives us a sneak peek into her creative mind and process.   

Yennybelles a voiceover actor, she unveils the chapters of her life in this compelling episode. From Dubai to the Philippines, where cultural shock and a dearth of healthcare deeply impacted her after her father battled cancer. Determined, she set her sights on Canada, turning a distant dream into a tangible reality. Yet, the achievement of her Canadian dream brought an unexpected emptiness, a feeling of being lost. In the midst of this quest for identity, she discovered solace and purpose through content creation, uncovering the hidden gems within her own neighborhood. During her time in the Philippines, as a ground stewardess for Qatar Airways, an unforeseen talent emerged – her captivating voice. This talent would lead her to become the voice of Philippine National Railways. She shares the raw and poignant experiences that shaped her, delving into her insights on body shaming and the profound motivations driving her creative endeavors. Explore the invaluable gift of perspective that colors her narrative, making this episode an inspiring tale of dreams, discovery, and resilience.       

Cary Lowe, an accomplished American Lawyer and Author of the compelling book "Becoming American," recently joined our podcast for an insightful conversation. His book narrates a remarkable journey from being a child of Holocaust survivors in post-war Europe to becoming a lawyer, academic, and activist, associating with renowned political leaders. He shared profound experiences, including memories of Army Counterintelligence agents gathering at his home in Austria, witnessing Jim Crow racism in the South during his visit to America, and his experience with microaggression from people he trusts. We also talked about issues such as the growing antisemitism in America, his perspective on the current generation, and his op-ed piece discussing how immigrants contribute significantly to boosting the economy.       

The Creative Director of the Filipinta beauty brand, Hana Acabado, joined the podcast to unfold her inspiring journey. Initially, in a moment of boredom while caring for her child, she conceived a mock-up brand, Filipinta, which eventually blossomed into a thriving company. Prior to Filipinta, Hana encountered setbacks in various ventures and pressed pause on her "mediocre" music career to embrace motherhood—a role she hadn't initially aspired to, being a career-driven woman. Surprisingly, motherhood instilled discipline and reshaped her artistic approach. We explore the genesis of Filipinta, Hana's advocacy, the viral Jollibee makeup palette, and concludes with her valuable insights on collaborating with prominent companies.    

Wilfred Padua is a stand-up comedian from New York that's originally from Seattle. In this episode, Wilfred discusses the challenges of growing up with illegal immigrant parents, feeling alienated from their struggles, avoiding stereotypes as an Asian man, struggles of online dating, how BET Comic View influence his stand-up career, the impact of social media on comedy and what he thinks is his next evolution as a stand-up.    

Dive into a captivating conversation with Teneisha Grimes, a relationship and financial coach. From her Jamaican roots to navigating parenthood in Canada, we explore the intricacies of blending Trinidadian and Jamaican cultures in raising kids. We discussed the story behind her viral post on the cost of living in Canada and why she's willing to pay the price for peace of mind. Teneisha shares her coaching journey, debunks immigrant money myths, and provides insights on YOLO vs. saving as a couple, along with tips on finding your 'soul and money mate.'    

Join me for a heartfelt year-end episode where we navigate through the highs and lows of 2023. I'll share gratitude for the lessons learned and growth experienced. We'll candidly review 2023 goals, celebrating successes and embracing challenges.Get ready for an honest self-assessment as I grade my 2023 goals, followed by an exciting reveal of my 2024 goals—from personal development to professional aspirations. Tune in for a sneak peek into what's in store for the podcast in 2024, including thought-provoking interviews, deep dives into intriguing topics, and engaging discussions on current events.Whether you're a longtime listener or new to the podcast, this episode offers insight into the evolution of the show and a preview of exciting content for 2024. Don't miss out—reflect, set new intentions, and join me for a transformative journey into the new year!

Monica Lam, a former model turned paralegal with a fascinating journey. Born in Massachusetts, raised in Minnesota, and now calling New Jersey home, Monica shares her unique experiences as a woman with a Cambodian background. Discover how Monica leveraged her modeling career as a platform to unlock doors and opportunities that ultimately shaped her path in life. Listen as she reflects on setting boundaries with her parents while navigating the challenges of parenting her child.   Monica opens up about the transformative impact her son had on her self-discovery journey and delves into the sacrifices she made for her child, highlighting the complexities of family dynamics that bring both joy and challenges. Join us as Monica discusses her personal struggle with postpartum depression and her inspiring journey towards embracing body positivity. In this episode, Monica Lam takes us through her authentic narrative, touching on the highs and lows that make her story one of resilience, self-love, and the pursuit of happiness.    

In this episode, we sat down with the award-winning Filmmaker, Patricio Ginelsa Growing up in Daly City surrounded by a vibrant Filipino community, he started making short films with neighborhood kids. This journey eventually led him to create the first-ever 'Lumpia movie.' A decade later, Patricio decided to follow it up with, ' Lumpia with a Vengeance,' an experience that allowed him to collaborate with former UFC fighter Mark Muñoz and the legendary Danny Trejo. Discover Patricio's insights on self-confidence versus self-esteem, the importance of never taking no for an answer, and his reluctance to be called a role model. Uncover his reasons behind sharing Filipino history and how a sense of betrayal fueled his quest to find his voice. From working with The Black Eyed Peas to creating the ‘Deep Fried Universe', Patricio's story is a testament to resilience and creativity. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about filmmaking, personal growth, and the power of storytelling.   

Katy Ho is a writer, activist. Born to refugee parents, she navigated a complex journey marked by intergenerational trauma and the quest for belonging. Battling guilt and self-imposed pressure, she discovers healing through heartfelt conversations and journaling. While Calgary was her childhood home, Vancouver becomes the canvas for her self-discovery, leading her to activism as the president of Amnesty International UBC chapter.   In our conversation, Katy shares insights on avoiding activism burnout and delves into her passion for sustainable fashion, recognizing its profound impact. We explore the powerful connection between personal experiences and activism, unraveling the threads of her story that drove her to champion sustainability. Katy emphasizes the importance of sustainable fashion and provides practical ideas for everyone to incorporate it into their lives.   

In this captivating episode, we dive into the fascinating life and perspectives of Henry Vaughan, a unique individual who blends philosophy and his diverse cultural experiences. Half-Taiwanese and Half-Texan, Henry's upbringing in a military family adds an extra layer to his intriguing background.    In this episode, Henry opens up about his personal journey into the world of philosophy and shares his insights as a Third Culture Kid. He discusses the evolving nature of his Taiwanese identity, acknowledging the inevitable changes as he finds peace in this transformation.    We'll explore Henry's definition of "Asian American" and his exploration of the differences between Western and Asian philosophy and how he navigates the balance between the two. We discussed thought-provoking topics such as the distinction between ethnicity and nationality, the role of gender in society, and the complexities of diversity and its chaotic nature. Don't miss this insightful discussion that unravels the layers of identity, philosophy, and cultural fusion.    

I switched roles with news reporter Michele De Pacina for an unforgettable interview! As the daughter of a diplomat, she found herself navigating various cultures enjoying the richness of diversity but contending with the challenges that stemmed from her struggle to maintain lasting friendships. The story takes an unexpected turn when her father's work abruptly relocated the family from the comfort of New Jersey to the Philippines. This abrupt change triggered a whirlwind of emotions.  However, amidst the turmoil, a silver lining emerged. Michele's exposure to the social and political landscape in the Philippines, particularly during President Duterte's controversial reign, ignited a passion for journalism. The injustices she witnessed fueled her commitment to shedding light on the truth and paved the way for her journey into the world of journalism. Dive into our conversation on journalism ethics, its current state, and the impact of AI. Michele's unwavering dedication to the field shines through.   

Meet Arthur Soriano founder of "Igorot Sky" a passionate amateur Filipino historian with unwavering pride in his Pinoy heritage. In this episode, we delve into his journey into Filipino history and the significance of oral history in preserving our rich heritage. We discuss topics such as colorism, the repatriation of stolen artifacts to the Philippines, and what it means to be a proud Pinoy. Arthur also shares insights into why learning your own history matters.         

Join us as I delve into a meaningful conversation with Mark Libatique the man behind "TK Baybayin", an artist I instantly connected with. We share a profound love for Baybayin, the Filipino pre-colonial script, and have mutual connections that bring us closer.    Mark, a proud Jersey boy, opens up about Filipino stereotypes stemming from the 'divide and conquer' colonial mentality. Originally pursuing a career in copy editing, he adapted to the evolving landscape of print journalism and now thrives in an administrative role at a museum.    Our discussion touches on Mark's return to reciting the rosary and how he reconciles his Catholic faith with his LGBTQ identity. We explore LGBTQ acceptance in the Philippines, Mark's journey into Baybayin, a tool he uses to craft 'Filipino spaces,' and his ambitious goals within the world of Baybayin art.       

Maylee Keo is an artist in pursuit of true connections. Her journey is a tapestry of self-discovery, weaving through vibrant murals, art, and music. These creations are her refuge from the digital world, a place where she learns about herself and her unique neurodiversity. But her art is more than a personal escape. It's a bridge that connects others to the rich tapestry of South East Asian culture and its diverse heritage.    Maylee's path led her to Cambodia for eight transformative months, where she gained fresh perspectives and deepened her understanding of her immigrant parents. She's embracing the philosophy of letting life unfold naturally, but don't be fooled – she's a diligent dream-chaser, putting in the work to turn her aspirations into reality.     Maylee's story is a testament to the power of art, self-discovery, and the beauty of accepting what life brings while still striving for her dreams.