Podcasts about Japanese Americans

The US Open ended earlier this month but here is Renaldo talking up Tennis and US players as Coco was getting set to play Osaka the Japanese American player representing Japan, how ironic.

Welcome to Wabi Sabi. Have we been kind to the Japanese? Do we deserve Japanese 7-Elevens in NY? How about asking a Japanese- American? In Today's episode is about reflection, learning, and appreciation. There is so much to learn from Japanese history — from the Edo period, to the U.S. Occupation, to the reawakening of Japanese hearts in the 20th century, and the complex but resilient relationship between Japan and the U.S. If you ask me, we shouldn't learn about Japan — we should learn from Japan. That means supporting Japanese voices, reading books by Japanese and Japanese American authors, and buying Japanese products, foods, beauty, and cultural traditions directly from their source. The research and care that goes into each episode can take me weeks, even months, to create. So if you enjoy listening, please subscribe, leave a comment, and share this podcast with two of your best friends. Now — what can we learn from the obliteration of matcha in the Western world? What can we learn from the history of Japanese Americans, wrongfully imprisoned in concentration camps during World War II, accused of crimes they did not commit? What can we learn from the resilience of a culture that endured deep suffering, only for us to now enjoy its traditions, artistry, and cuisine in all their beauty, novelty, and kawaii? We are able to appreciate Japanese culture today only because our ancestors paid a dear price. This is something we must honor, reflect on, and consider deeply in today's episode. Thanks for listening. —Candice Kumai

Born to a Japanese-American family in ritzy suburban Orange County, California, Kenny “Kenji” Gallo was a bookish, hyperactive kid who lived a double life as a car-bombing, gun-toting international drug trafficker. He owned a nightclub, produced porn movies, and was arrested for the murder of his own best friend- all before he could legally drink. Gallo graduated to life as a jet-setting playboy thug, refining his gangster style under Mafia legends, marrying a legendary porn star, and making millions in credit and stock fraud, extortion, gambling, and the sex trade. Then, after more than two daredevil decades, Gallo voluntarily wired up as an under cover FBI informant in exchange for a fresh start, nearly losing his life in the process. From 1980s cocaine cowboys, to the modern mob and its Tony Soprano wannabes, to the porn industry's dirty secrets, this riveting and redemptive memoir captures the American underworld in all its tawdry spectacle.https://amzn.to/4npx82aBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/the-opperman-report--1198501/support.

Satsuki Ina was born behind barbed wire at Tule Lake, where she became one of roughly 120,000 Japanese Americans incarcerated during World War II. Her parents, both U.S. citizens, lost their freedom and faith in America, leaving a legacy of silence and trauma. Today, as immigrant families are again separated and detained, Ina's memoir "The Poet and the Silk Girl" chronicles her family's journey through California's network of assembly centers and permanent camps. It's a reminder, she says, that what happened then is not just history — it's a warning about how easily such chapters of fear and racism repeat themselves.

Send us a textIn this episode of the Japanese America Podcast titled "Legacy of Hope: Clara Breed's Letters and the Art of Compassion," hosts Koji and Michelle embark on a touching exploration of the enduring power of empathy and small acts of kindness. They begin by sharing personal anecdotes about the impactful teachers in their lives, setting the stage for the inspiring story of Clara Breed, a courageous children's librarian from San Diego during World War II. Clara Breed's quiet defiance against the forced incarceration of Japanese American families is highlighted through her thoughtful gestures of sending letters and supplies to children in camps, creating a vital link to the outside world. The episode draws poignant parallels between Breed's actions and the historical support of the Quakers, reflecting on the lost art of letter writing and its lasting impact on human connection. Through heartwarming excerpts from the letters exchanged between Miss Breed and the children, listeners are reminded of the profound impact small, compassionate acts can have, even amidst adversity. Join Koji and Michelle as they honor Clara Breed's legacy and inspire listeners to become beacons of hope in their own communities.For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org. CREDITSThe music was created by Jalen BlankWritten by Koji Steven SakaiHosts: Michelle Malazaki and Koji Steven SakaiEdited by Michelle MalazakiProduced by Koji Steven Sakai in conjunction with the Japanese American National Museum

✨ In this episode of Brightside, we're joined by the one and only Allen Klein—the Jollytologist® and bestselling author—along with award-winning filmmaker and photographer Sky Bergman. We dive into Sky's upcoming documentary, explore Allen's powerful story of loss that led to his life-changing work, and uncover:The power of laughter as a healing toolHow to notice everyday mini-miraclesPractical ways to find joy even in life's toughest momentsThe importance of having purposeTune in for inspiring stories, uplifting wisdom, and tools you can use to bring more light into your daily life.LEARN MORE: https://www.thejollyfilm.comALLEN KLEINBorn and raised in the Bronx, Allen Klein has spent a lifetime helping people find humor in life's most difficult moments. After losing his wife when she was 34 to a rare liver disease, Allen realized that humor had been one of their most powerful coping tools—and he's been sharing that insight with the world ever since.A former scenic designer for CBS television in New York (including the Captain Kangaroo Show), Allen swapped whimsical sets for uplifting stories. He went on to earn a master's degree in human development with a focus on therapeutic humor, and became the world's first and only “Jollytologist®”—yes, it's a real title, and yes, he lives up to it.He's authored over 30 books, including The Healing Power of Humor, The Courage to Laugh, Embracing Life After Loss and The AWE Factor. His work has been translated into 11 languages, and he's brought his message of healing and hilarity to audiences across the globe—from corporate boardrooms to both hospitals and hospices. SKY BERGMANSky Bergman is Professor Emeritus of Photography and Video at Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo, where she taught for 30 years before embarking on her third act. An award-winning photographer and filmmaker, her artwork is included in prestigious museum collections, and her commercial work has been featured in renowned publications such as Smithsonian magazine.Her directorial debut, Lives Well Lived is an uplifting PBS documentary that celebrates the wit and wisdom of adults aged 75 to 100 as they share their secrets for a meaningful life. The film is currently available on PBS Passport, Amazon, iTunes, and Kanopy. Her companion book, Lives Well Lived — GENERATIONS, which highlights lessons from the film and innovative ways that people are bridging generational divides, is available on Amazon.Sky's latest film, The Mochi Movie, features the legendary George Takei and explores the Japanese American experience through the tradition of making mochi to celebrate the New Year. Sky creates films that connect, inspire, and celebrate the richness of the human experience. At the heart of every film is a belief in the impact of shared stories to foster empathy, understanding, and a more connected world.

On today's show, we're chatting with Alison Nagatani, the founder of Maui Mood Swing and Mad Kimono. Alison is a fourth-generation farmer turned vintage entrepreneur who made the bold move from California's Central Valley to Maui and has since reimagined her life, living new passions. What started as sourcing vintage for a friend's store evolved into two unique vintage destinations: Maui Mood Swing, an antique mall experience with a Hawaiian twist, and Mad Kimono, a curated women's vintage boutique inspired by her personal closet spanning pieces from the 1930s to 1990s. And I loved hearing about how Alison brings vintage full circle - literally bringing Hawaii souvenirs back home to the islands where they started. I think you're really going to enjoy it –  let's dive right in! DISCUSSED IN THE EPISODE: [3:34] Growing up in Bakersfield, Alison got into vintage and thrift through dressing in punk and grunge styles in high school. [7:43] Alison is a fourth-generation  Japanese-American farmer and grew up on the family farm. [10:14]  While making the bold move to Maui, Alison started her own vintage businesses. [13:18] Building a team and community around the vintage stores [19:42] Building Maui Mood Swing, during COVID, from afar. [21:04] After Maui Mood Swing, the team opened Mad Kimono, just nine months ago.  [25:02] Sourcing vintage in Hawaii and bringing Hawaiian souvenirs back to the islands [29:04] Alison also specializes in ‘Made in Hawaii' clothing. [33:13] Traveling to California and Japan to source vintage. [39:38] Alison's kimonos, and other special pieces in her personal vintage collection. [40:32] Her philosophy on letting go of vintage pieces EPISODE MENTIONS:  Maui Mood Swing @mauimoodswing Mad Kimono  @madkimonomaui Jerry's Pizza in Bakersfield Kahala shirts Crazy tees - vintage tags Gecko Hawaii Wings Hawaii Blossom Vintage Jamie from Blossom on Pre-Loved Podcast Heartbreak Vintage Kimono Dragon LET'S CONNECT: 

Episode No. 722 features museum director and human rights activist Ann Burroughs, and curator Cory Korkow. Burroughs is the director of the Japanese American National Museum, Los Angeles, which has led the museum sector in resisting Trumpism and the rise of fascism in the United States. Even as many US institutions capitulated when the Trump administration demanded a return to racist and white supremacist policies and practices, JANM stood by its diversity and equity foci and programs. Over the summer, armed and often masked  Border Patrol agents conducted what appeared to be an operation aimed at intimidating speakers at a program at the museum's Daniel K. Inouye National Center for the Preservation of Democracy, including at a press conference held by California Gov. Gavin Newsom. The museum aggressively resisted the federal show of force, drawing lines between illegal federal actions in 1942 and the present. JANM's mission is "to promote understanding and appreciation of America's ethnic and cultural diversity by sharing the Japanese American experience." Its collections and programs feature art and art's history. The museum holds work by and the archives of artists such as Hisako Hibi, George Hoshida, Estelle Ishigo, Henry Sugimoto, Chikashi Tanaka, Kango Takamura, and Jack Iwata. In addition to leading JANM, Burroughs is the two-time former chairperson of the board of Amnesty International USA, the chair of the Amnesty International Global Assembly, and presently sits on the board of Amnesty International. As mentioned on the program: Burroughs' op-ed for the American Alliance of Museums; and JANM's "History Unpacked" program. Korkow helped lead the Cleveland Museum of Art's acquisition and initial installation of Giambologna's Fata Morgana (ca. 1572), which had been the last of the roughly dozen marble sculptures made by the artist remaining in private hands. Giambologna made the sculpture for installation in a fountain at Bernardo Vecchietti's Villa il Reposo in Bagno a Ripoli, Italy. Instagram: Cory Korkow, Tyler Green. Air date: September 4, 2025.

Toshiko Takaezu (1922-2011) was a Japanese-American ceramicist. Drawing from her heritage, love of travel, and a deep connection to nature and spirituality, she created closed ceramic forms that emphasized presence over function. As both an artist and teacher, she advocated for art to be a path to reflection and self-expression. For Further Reading: Toshiko Takaezu, Ceramic Artist, Dies at 88 Toshiko Takaezu - Biography Diving Into Hidden Universes: Toshiko Takaezu: Worlds Within at the MFAH Toshiko Takaezu: Food For the Searching Soul This month, we’re talking about Women of the Wheel – icons who turned motion into momentum and spun their legacies on spokes, skates and potter’s wheels. These women harnessed the power of the axle, pushing their crafts and professions forward through their works and lives. History classes can get a bad rap, and sometimes for good reason. When we were students, we couldn’t help wondering... where were all the ladies at? Why were so many incredible stories missing from the typical curriculum? Enter, Womanica. On this Wonder Media Network podcast we explore the lives of inspiring women in history you may not know about, but definitely should. Every weekday, listeners explore the trials, tragedies, and triumphs of groundbreaking women throughout history who have dramatically shaped the world around us. In each 5 minute episode, we’ll dive into the story behind one woman listeners may or may not know–but definitely should. These diverse women from across space and time are grouped into easily accessible and engaging monthly themes like Educators, Villains, Indigenous Storytellers, Activists, and many more. Womanica is hosted by WMN co-founder and award-winning journalist Jenny Kaplan. The bite-sized episodes pack painstakingly researched content into fun, entertaining, and addictive daily adventures. Womanica was created by Liz Kaplan and Jenny Kaplan, executive produced by Jenny Kaplan, and produced by Grace Lynch, Maddy Foley, Brittany Martinez, Edie Allard, Carmen Borca-Carrillo, Taylor Williamson, Sara Schleede, Paloma Moreno Jimenez, Luci Jones, Abbey Delk, Adrien Behn, Alyia Yates, Vanessa Handy, Melia Agudelo, and Joia Putnoi. Special thanks to Shira Atkins. Follow Wonder Media Network: Website Instagram Twitter See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Amy hosts this Labor Day Monday morning Wake Up Call. The show starts with Amy revisiting her conversation with documentary, commercial, and editorial photographer Morgan Lieberman about ‘The Age of Incarceration,' where she captures the testimony and experiences of nine of the last survivors of Japanese American incarceration, 80 years after the war ended and these people were released. Amy talks with CEA Chief Mitigation Officer for the California Earthquake Authority Janiele Maffei about their grant program to brace and bolt older homes to their foundation to protect against earthquakes. The show closes with Amy's conversation with author Richard Simon and his latest book ‘Unplug: How to break up with your smartphone.'

In this week's story, teller Connie Shirakawa recalls her experience on a pilgrimage to the former internment camp site where her parents met and the community she found among the generations of Japanese Americans she traveled with.

On Feb. 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced Executive Order 9066, which authorized the confinement of tens of thousands of Japanese and Japanese-Americans living in the Western U.S., sending them to cramped, hastily-constructed camps like Manzanar and Amache.  One such Japanese-American was Karl Yoneda, a well-known labor activist–and the husband of Elaine Yoneda, a Jewish-American woman. Elaine soon followed her husband to the Manzanar camp, after authorities threatened to send her three-year-old mixed-race son, Thomas, to the camp alone.  The Yonedas time in the camp is the subject of Tracy Slater's book, Together in Manzanar: The True Story of a Japanese Jewish Family in an American Concentration Camp (Chicago Review Press, 2025) Tracy is a Jewish American writer from Boston, based in her husband's country of Japan. Her previous book was the mixed-marriage memoir The Good Shufu: Finding Love, Self, and Home on the Far Side of the World (G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2015). She has also published work in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Time's Made by History, and more. You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Together in Manzanar. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

On Feb. 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced Executive Order 9066, which authorized the confinement of tens of thousands of Japanese and Japanese-Americans living in the Western U.S., sending them to cramped, hastily-constructed camps like Manzanar and Amache.  One such Japanese-American was Karl Yoneda, a well-known labor activist–and the husband of Elaine Yoneda, a Jewish-American woman. Elaine soon followed her husband to the Manzanar camp, after authorities threatened to send her three-year-old mixed-race son, Thomas, to the camp alone.  The Yonedas time in the camp is the subject of Tracy Slater's book, Together in Manzanar: The True Story of a Japanese Jewish Family in an American Concentration Camp (Chicago Review Press, 2025) Tracy is a Jewish American writer from Boston, based in her husband's country of Japan. Her previous book was the mixed-marriage memoir The Good Shufu: Finding Love, Self, and Home on the Far Side of the World (G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2015). She has also published work in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Time's Made by History, and more. You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Together in Manzanar. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/asian-american-studies

On Feb. 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced Executive Order 9066, which authorized the confinement of tens of thousands of Japanese and Japanese-Americans living in the Western U.S., sending them to cramped, hastily-constructed camps like Manzanar and Amache.  One such Japanese-American was Karl Yoneda, a well-known labor activist–and the husband of Elaine Yoneda, a Jewish-American woman. Elaine soon followed her husband to the Manzanar camp, after authorities threatened to send her three-year-old mixed-race son, Thomas, to the camp alone.  The Yonedas time in the camp is the subject of Tracy Slater's book, Together in Manzanar: The True Story of a Japanese Jewish Family in an American Concentration Camp (Chicago Review Press, 2025) Tracy is a Jewish American writer from Boston, based in her husband's country of Japan. Her previous book was the mixed-marriage memoir The Good Shufu: Finding Love, Self, and Home on the Far Side of the World (G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2015). She has also published work in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Time's Made by History, and more. You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Together in Manzanar. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/jewish-studies

On Feb. 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced Executive Order 9066, which authorized the confinement of tens of thousands of Japanese and Japanese-Americans living in the Western U.S., sending them to cramped, hastily-constructed camps like Manzanar and Amache.  One such Japanese-American was Karl Yoneda, a well-known labor activist–and the husband of Elaine Yoneda, a Jewish-American woman. Elaine soon followed her husband to the Manzanar camp, after authorities threatened to send her three-year-old mixed-race son, Thomas, to the camp alone.  The Yonedas time in the camp is the subject of Tracy Slater's book, Together in Manzanar: The True Story of a Japanese Jewish Family in an American Concentration Camp (Chicago Review Press, 2025) Tracy is a Jewish American writer from Boston, based in her husband's country of Japan. Her previous book was the mixed-marriage memoir The Good Shufu: Finding Love, Self, and Home on the Far Side of the World (G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2015). She has also published work in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Time's Made by History, and more. You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Together in Manzanar. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/biography

On Feb. 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced Executive Order 9066, which authorized the confinement of tens of thousands of Japanese and Japanese-Americans living in the Western U.S., sending them to cramped, hastily-constructed camps like Manzanar and Amache.  One such Japanese-American was Karl Yoneda, a well-known labor activist–and the husband of Elaine Yoneda, a Jewish-American woman. Elaine soon followed her husband to the Manzanar camp, after authorities threatened to send her three-year-old mixed-race son, Thomas, to the camp alone.  The Yonedas time in the camp is the subject of Tracy Slater's book, Together in Manzanar: The True Story of a Japanese Jewish Family in an American Concentration Camp (Chicago Review Press, 2025) Tracy is a Jewish American writer from Boston, based in her husband's country of Japan. Her previous book was the mixed-marriage memoir The Good Shufu: Finding Love, Self, and Home on the Far Side of the World (G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2015). She has also published work in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Time's Made by History, and more. You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Together in Manzanar. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/american-studies

On Feb. 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced Executive Order 9066, which authorized the confinement of tens of thousands of Japanese and Japanese-Americans living in the Western U.S., sending them to cramped, hastily-constructed camps like Manzanar and Amache.  One such Japanese-American was Karl Yoneda, a well-known labor activist–and the husband of Elaine Yoneda, a Jewish-American woman. Elaine soon followed her husband to the Manzanar camp, after authorities threatened to send her three-year-old mixed-race son, Thomas, to the camp alone.  The Yonedas time in the camp is the subject of Tracy Slater's book, Together in Manzanar: The True Story of a Japanese Jewish Family in an American Concentration Camp (Chicago Review Press, 2025) Tracy is a Jewish American writer from Boston, based in her husband's country of Japan. Her previous book was the mixed-marriage memoir The Good Shufu: Finding Love, Self, and Home on the Far Side of the World (G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2015). She has also published work in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Time's Made by History, and more. You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Together in Manzanar. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/asian-review

On Feb. 19, 1942, President Franklin D. Roosevelt announced Executive Order 9066, which authorized the confinement of tens of thousands of Japanese and Japanese-Americans living in the Western U.S., sending them to cramped, hastily-constructed camps like Manzanar and Amache.  One such Japanese-American was Karl Yoneda, a well-known labor activist–and the husband of Elaine Yoneda, a Jewish-American woman. Elaine soon followed her husband to the Manzanar camp, after authorities threatened to send her three-year-old mixed-race son, Thomas, to the camp alone.  The Yonedas time in the camp is the subject of Tracy Slater's book, Together in Manzanar: The True Story of a Japanese Jewish Family in an American Concentration Camp (Chicago Review Press, 2025) Tracy is a Jewish American writer from Boston, based in her husband's country of Japan. Her previous book was the mixed-marriage memoir The Good Shufu: Finding Love, Self, and Home on the Far Side of the World (G.P. Putnam's Sons, 2015). She has also published work in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, the Washington Post, Time's Made by History, and more. You can find more reviews, excerpts, interviews, and essays at The Asian Review of Books, including its review of Together in Manzanar. Follow on Twitter at @BookReviewsAsia. Nicholas Gordon is an editor for a global magazine, and a reviewer for the Asian Review of Books. He can be found on Twitter at @nickrigordon. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/book-of-the-day

Amy King hosts your Thursday Wake Up Call. ABC News national correspondent Steven Portnoy talks about President Trump's move to fire Federal Reserve Governor. KTLA & KFI technology reporter Rich DeMuro joins the show for ‘Wired Wednesday.' Today, Rich talks about the NEW Apple iPhone 17, Google translate upgrade, Facebook getting into your camera roll, and Chuck's Arcade. We ‘Get in Your Business' with Bloomberg's Courtney Donohoe discussing how the markets are looking today. The show closes with Amy talking with documentary, commercial, and editorial photographer Morgan Lieberman about ‘The Age of Incarceration,' where she captures the testimony and experiences of nine of the last survivors of Japanese American incarceration, 80 years after the war ended and these people were released.

Amy talks with documentary, commercial, and editorial photographer Morgan Lieberman about ‘The Age of Incarceration,' where she captures the testimony and experiences of nine of the last survivors of Japanese American incarceration, 80 years after the war ended and these people were released.

Maureen O'Leary and Naomi J. Williams are California authors who join us to discuss their inclusion in Sacramento Noir, an anthology showcasing the gilded splendor and, as editor John Freeman puts it, the “not-at-all-buried contradictions” of that historic state capital. In today's episode, Naomi, Maureen, and Annmarie talk about the erasure of a Japanese-American neighborhood, the powerful sway of mean girls, and what we can learn from the dark stories our cities hide in plain sight.  Episode Sponsors: Pegasus Books – With shops in Berkeley and Oakland, Pegasus bookstores are welcoming and inclusive neighborhood spaces, where we believe in the printed word and in the alchemy of sharing books with one another. Find a huge selection of new, used and sale titles in our stores or shop online at PegasusBookstore.com. Green Apple Books– We've been connecting curious San Francisco readers to great books since 1967. Browsing at Green Apple is a unique experience. From our handmade signs and book recommendations to the many nooks and crannies, you can both get lost in here and find serendipity. Our friendly, well-read employees also stand ready to help you in any way. For your next great read, stop by or go to greenapplebooks.com Titles Mentioned in This Episode: Sacramento Noir, edited by John Freeman Landfalls, by Naomi J. Williams Physics of Weight: Collected Poems, by Maureen O'Leary Time's Mouth, by Edan Lepucki Detransition, Baby, by Torrey Peters The Heart of It All, by Christian Kiefer (You can listen to our WPL conversation with Christian here.) Here's the opening for The Brady Bunch. What do you think – terrifying or not? Here's the trailer for the noir film Notorious with Cary Grant and Ingrid Bergman. Follow Maureen O'Leary: Instagram: @maureenow Twitter/X: @maureenow Bluesky: @maureenow.bsky.social‬ maureen-oleary.com Follow Naomi J. Williams: Instagram: @naomijwilliams Twitter/X: @NaomiWilliams Bluesky: @naomijwilliams.bsky.social‬ naomijwilliams.com **Writing Workshops:  If you liked this conversation and are interested in writing together, please consider the opportunities below.  Or if you're looking for an online class to jumpstart your memoir, you can find that here.  Or for women interested in an online Saturday morning writing circle, you can sign up here or message Annmarie to learn more.  Photo Credits: Jesse Egner for Naomi Williams Aaron Cameron for Maureen O'Leary Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to Season 5, Episode 34! Before reading Table for 51, we had no idea what a “Friendship Expert” was. After meeting Shari Leid for this episode's conversation, we think everyone could use a Friendship Expert! Her newest book, Table for 51, shares her journey on the 50 States Project, where she committed to having a meal and conversation with one woman in every state. The book is a combination of memoir, self-help manual, and journey of inspiration. She learned about belonging and identity. Shari was born in Seoul, South Korea and adopted by a Japanese American couple after she was found abandoned in a box. She's a former litigator who is now a Friendship Expert, public speaker, and writer. After she left her career in litigation, she founded a professional mindset coaching business called An Imperfectly Perfect Life, LLC. Her business serves clients in those tricky middle age years, helping them create the life of their dreams. In addition to Table for 51, she has written The Friendship Series which includes The 50/50 Friendship Flow, Make Your Mess Your Message, and Ask Yourself This, which included a 60-day journaling challenge.  In our conversation, we talk about her career, what motivated her to go on the 50 States Project, how she organized Table for 51, her advice for people struggling with feelings of belonging, and so much more. To learn more about what Shari does, you can get Table for 51 or any of her other books, visit her site, follow her on instagram, join her Facebook group Flip the Box, listen to her podcast, or watch her YouTube channel.  If you like what we do, please share, follow, and like us in your podcast directory of choice or on Instagram @AAHistory101. For previous episodes and resources, please visit our site at https://asianamericanhistory101.libsyn.com or our links at http://castpie.com/AAHistory101. If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, email us at info@aahistory101.com.

Martha revisits her conversation with author and historian Steven Ujifusa, who shares his family's fascinating history. Born to a Jewish mother and a Japanese American father, he dug into his history and uncovered stories that he now feels compelled to share. Steven also introduces his book 'The Last Ships From Hamburg', which covers the story of over two million Jews who fled their homes in Eastern Europe to escape discrimination and persecution between 1890 and 1921. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Send us a textIn this engaging episode of the Japanese America Podcast, hosts Michelle and Koji take listeners on a nostalgic journey through the vibrant summer festivities of Japanese American culture. They share delightful anecdotes from events like Obon and Nisei Week, highlighting the unique traditions and foods that make these celebrations special. The episode features a captivating interview with Helen Ota, the 2025 Nisei Week Foundation President, who discusses her leadership journey and contributions to the community, including her work with the Cold Tofu improv group. For more information about the Japanese American National Museum, please visit our website at www.janm.org. CREDITSThe music was created by Jalen BlankWritten by Koji Steven SakaiHosts: Michelle Malazaki and Koji Steven SakaiEdited and produced by Koji Steven Sakai in conjunction with the Japanese American National Museum

This is the third episode in a 5-part series marking the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second World War in August 1945. In 1942, the Japanese seemed unstoppable in the Pacific, and the Germans steamrolled toward Stalingrad. Their victories proved ephemeral. And, in defeat, the Axis powers took millions of innocent people with them. This human drama is captured in historian Peter Fritzsche's new book, 1942, which bridges the gap between memory and history. Common American memories of righteous victory obscure the complexities, for this war was many wars in one. There were wars of national liberation, waged by people who'd been subjugated by the British and French Empires. And the U.S. was at war with itself, fielding a segregated army while throwing Japanese-American citizens into concentration camps. Recommended reading: 1942: When World War II Engulfed the Globe by Peter Fritzsche

Today on AirTalk, President Trump deploys the National Guard in the nation's capital; what is the latest update on the feud between Trump and college campuses; a look back into the history behind Japanese-American car culture in LA; SoCal school district academic year preview; Ballona Wetlands Restoration and 60th Anniversary of the Watts Rebellion. Today on AirTalk: The president deploys National Guard in DC (0:15) Latest on threats to college funding (10:02) Japanese-American car culture in LA (28:11) SoCal school districts prep ahead of academic year (51:18) Ballona Wetlands Restoration (1:11:37) Visit www.preppi.com/LAist to receive a FREE Preppi Emergency Kit (with any purchase over $100) and be prepared for the next wildfire, earthquake or emergency!

San Francisco is proud to claim the iconic Japanese-American artist Ruth Asawa as our own. She's known primarily for her wire sculptures, as well as her advocacy for arts education. Now, 300 pieces of her work are currently on display at SFMOMA. Janet Bishop is one of the curators of the retrospective. 

Authors Tracy Slater and Julia Riew published two very different books last month that were inspired by a similar time in history. First, Together in Manzanar is set during the incarceration of Japanese Americans following Pearl Harbor. The book tells the real-life story of a mother who had to decide whether to go to a concentration camp with her 3-year-old Japanese American son or stay back with her daughter, who was white. In today's episode, Slater speaks with NPR's Sacha Pfeiffer about this family's story. Next, The Last Tiger is a fictional book for young readers about the Japanese occupation of Korea. In today's episode, its co-author Julia Riew talks with NPR's Scott Simon about writing the book with her brother and how their grandparents shaped the story.To listen to Book of the Day sponsor-free and support NPR's book coverage, sign up for Book of the Day+ at plus.npr.org/bookofthedayLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

August 6 marks 80 years since the bombing of Hiroshima. Its effects are still being felt all across the world eight decades later. Reset discusses with DePaul University religious studies professor Yuki Miyamoto, Japanese Art Foundation board president John Donners and Rebecca Ozaki and Jeannie Tomoda Harrell, program directors at the Japanese American Citizens League Chicago.

It's August 5th. This day in 1944, a crucial moment in World War II history, a series of internment camps are being set up in Texas. Unlike the more widely known camps on the US West Coast, these camps held not only Japanese Americans but also individuals of Japanese, German, and Italian descent from Latin America, who were deported to this country.Jody, Niki, and Kellie discuss why the US was bringing people into the country just to put them behind fences; what life was like inside Crystal City; and why this story has been largely forgotten.Don't forget to sign up for our America250 Watch newsletter, where you'll also get links and lots more historical tidbits.https://thisdaypod.substack.com/Find out more about the show at thisdaypod.comThis Day In Esoteric Political History is a proud member of Radiotopia from PRX.Your support helps foster independent, artist-owned podcasts and award-winning stories.If you want to support the show directly, you can do so on our website: ThisDayPod.comGet in touch if you have any ideas for future topics, or just want to say hello. Follow us on social @thisdaypodOur team: Jacob Feldman, Researcher/Producer; Brittani Brown, Producer; Khawla Nakua, Transcripts; music by Teen Daze and Blue Dot Sessions; Audrey Mardavich is our Executive Producer at Radiotopia Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

We sit down with Emmy-winning TV producer Clara Plestis, whose work as an executive at Smart Dog Media, helped redefine what family-friendly television can be. Clara has been instrumental in shaping formats that blend high-concept experimentation with broad appeal, from AI-powered dating shows to variety competitions. Her work demonstrates that entertainment aimed at mass audiences doesn't have to be safe or predictable—it can be surprising, ambitious, and culturally resonant.Clara walks us through the creative decisions behind Song vs. Dance, a Japanese-American co-production that combines performance, gaming, and visual flair into a highly original competition format. She also opens up about the bold choices behind Love by AI, a provocative dating experiment that hands matchmaking—and even the date experience itself—over to artificial intelligence. Through these shows, Clara reveals what it really takes to push fresh concepts through the development process: a deep understanding of global markets, strong format discipline, and the confidence to take calculated risks.Join us for a deep dive into Clara's process and what she sees on the horizon for television development.About WrapbookWrapbook is a smart, intuitive platform that makes production payroll and accounting easier, faster, and more secure. We provide a unified payroll platform that seamlessly connects your entire team—production, accounting, cast, and crew—all in one place.Wrapbook empowers production teams to manage projects, pay cast and crew, track expenses, and generate data-driven insights, while enabling workers to manage timecards, track pay, and onboard to new projects from any device. Wrapbook brings clarity and dependability to production payroll, while increasing the productivity of your whole team.For crew: The Wrapbook app eliminates the headaches of production payroll by providing a fast, transparent, and secure solution for workers to complete startwork, submit timecards, and track pay.Trusted by companies of all sizes, Wrapbook powers payroll for some of the industry's top production companies, including SMUGGLER, Tuff, and GhostRobot. Our growing team of 250+ people includes entertainment and technology experts from SAG-AFTRA, DGA, IATSE, Teamsters, Amazon, Microsoft, Facebook, and more.Wrapbook is backed by top-tier investors, including Jeffrey Katzenberg's WndrCo, Andreessen Horowitz, and A* Capital.Get started at https://www.wrapbook.com/

Riwo finishes up Freedom Month talking about a San Diego Public Librarian who stood up for Japanese American children during WW2 interments. Clara Breed sent books, letters, and support to young readers imprisoned in camps — protecting their right to read and reminding them they were not forgotten.

Golden mussels are a dangerous new invader in California's water supply. Also, a documentary about the oldest and largest Asian American civil rights organization in the country. Finally, a memoir about the first winery in Fair Play, Calif.

Where do you go to find community when you’re older?    That’s a question OPB’s Winston Szeto wanted to answer, specifically for senior communities of color.    The Yat Sing Music Club was founded in 1942 by Chinese immigrants in Portland, Oregon. The club was started to raise funds for China’s defense against Japan during World War II.    Over 80 years later, Yat Sing preserves Cantonese opera through ongoing rehearsals and community outreach. The club is particularly important for the older generation. This is a space where they can be themselves and celebrate their culture.    There’s a similar experience at Ikoi no Kai, a senior meal program in Portland that opened in 1979. It offers a space for local Japanese Americans coming together over food and connection.    In Oregon, the need for social connection is more important than ever. The latest census data says the state ranks among the highest in the country for residents who report feeling lonely.    OPB’s Winston Szeto researched this topic by looking into these two groups — and why it's important to focus on those rarely covered in the media: seniors.    Check out OPB’s Oregon Experience documentary on the Yat Sing Music Club and story on Ikoi no Kai.    For more Evergreen episodes and to share your voice with us, visit our showpage. Follow OPB on Instagram, and follow host Jenn Chávez too. You can sign up for OPB’s newsletters to get what you need in your inbox regularly.   Don’t forget to check out our many podcasts, which can be found on any of your favorite podcast apps: Hush  Timber Wars Season 2: Salmon Wars Politics Now Think Out Loud And many more! Check out our full show list here.

The Hot Stove Society Tasting Panel dives into creamy buffalo milk mozzarella // Patricia Gray from the Pike Place Market Foundation and Chef Traci Calderon of Atrium Kitchen join us to chat about this year’s Sunset Supper at Pike Place Market // Tom shares his process and passion behind homemade miso // Brady Ishiwata Williams, chef-owner of Tomo in White Center, reveals how intention and simplicity shape his Japanese-American cuisine // We explore “the Art of Crafting a Dish” // Chef Makini Howell returns with her new retail venture: pre-pressed and pre-seasoned Makini’s Tofu // And of course, we’ll wrap up today’s show with Food for Thought: Tasty Trivia!!

There is a chilling pattern of how governments have systematically dehumanized, displaced, and exterminated entire groups of people throughout history using bureaucratic steps.Drawing from real atrocities such as the Holocaust, the Khmer Rouge regime, the Rwandan genocide, and the Armenian genocide, as well as injustices in U.S. history like the internment of Japanese Americans and the treatment of Native and African Americans, I trace a common structure of how oppression builds: with labels, propaganda, silence, and “legal” processes. Societal fear and political power can normalize cruelty. So here's your reminder of the responsibility to notice, speak out, and act before it's too late. Recognize familiar patterns and refuse to let history repeat itself.Get in touch on HorrorStory.com

Welcome to Season 5, Episode 27! We have been known to be obsessed with true crime stories. So we were really excited to read L.A. Coroner: Thomas Noguchi and Death in Hollywood by Professor Anne Soon Choi and published by Third State Books. And we were even more excited when Anne visited us as a guest.  Professor Choi is the Interim Associate Director of Online Pedagogy and Learning for the Faculty Development Center, and Associate Professor and Chair of the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies at Cal State Dominguez Hills. She's a historian and also interested in True Crime as well as Asian American history… so writing a book about Dr. Thomas Noguchi is the perfect intersection of these two interests.  Noguchi was the highest ranking Japanese American official in Los Angeles County during the 1960s and 70s, and he performed autopsies of some of the most well-known people who passed away during that time including Marilyn Monroe, Robert F. Kennedy, Sharon Tate, and Natalie Wood. In our conversation with Anne, she shares her process of research, some of Dr. Noguchi's biggest innovations, how the Asian American community rallied around Noguchi when he faced a racist dismissal, some of Anne's future writing projects, and so much more.  If you love true crime stories and/or learning about Asian American History, then we highly recommend buying L.A. Coroner. You can also learn more about Anne Soon Choi via her Instagram @latruecrime.  If you like what we do, please share, follow, and like us in your podcast directory of choice or on Instagram @AAHistory101. For previous episodes and resources, please visit our site at https://asianamericanhistory101.libsyn.com or our links at http://castpie.com/AAHistory101. If you have any questions, comments or suggestions, email us at info@aahistory101.com.

Guest Bryan Yamami is the co-founder and executive director of the acclaimed and award-winning drumming group TAIKOPROJECT (www.taikoproject.org). You'll learn why he was a less than enthusiastic young taiko student, but why he returned to this ancient form of Japanese drumming with fervor while a college student. Notably, Bryan shares why and how he and co-founder Masato Baba felt led to start their own group with the emerging vision to create a uniquely Japanese American version of taiko ensemble performances.  TAIKOPROJECT will be celebratinig its 25th anniversary with a culturally collaborative show featuring Chicanx band Quetzal and Berklee-trained Japanese musician Sumie Kaneko, who will be performing vocals, on koto, and on shamisen. More information about buying tickets can be found at www.taikoproject.org/25th.

633. We talk to Heidi Kim about her research into the novel, Vieux Salomon. "Set in Guadeloupe, New Orleans, the surrounding Louisiana plantations, and briefly in other areas of the South, this is a key text of the history of slavery in Louisiana and the Deep South.There is obviously a difference between memoirs and novels in terms of perception and claims to nonfiction. However, in U.S. antislavery literature, both usually attempted to appeal to the same white mainstream readership (with the exception in this case of Testut's audience being French-speaking and largely Catholic). Most claimed realism; even novels asserted that they depicted events that had happened or were familiar, even if the characters were fictional." "Heidi's research and teaching ranges through 19th-21st century American literature, with specializations in the Japanese American incarceration of World War II, law and literature, and the Cold War period. She has also published on Walt Whitman and antislavery literature, including the partial translation of Louisiana Francophone novel Le Vieux Salomon, and collaborated on interdisciplinary environmental research" (Kim). Now available: Liberty in Louisiana: A Comedy. The oldest play about Louisiana, author James Workman wrote it as a celebration of the Louisiana Purchase. Now it is back in print for the first time in 221 years. Order your copy today! Camille Naudin (pen name). “La Marseillaise Noire — Chant de Paix.” "Let march on! Regardless of color, Men of color, unite; For the light of the sun is for everyone. May each happy race prosper, To the frontiers of humanity Engrave these words: I hope in Thee, Thou shalt reign, Equality." This week in Louisiana history. July 5, 1910. Gov. Sanders appointed to fill senate seat after Sen. McEnery dies, he chooses to remain governor. This week in New Orleans history. Moisant Airport renamed July 5, 2001. The New Orleans City Council unanimously approved the New Orleans Aviation Board's proposal to rename the New Orleans International Airport in honor of the great Louis Armstrong. This week in Louisiana. Lake Bistineau State Park 103 State Park Road Doyline, LA 71023 318-745-3503 1-888-677-2478 lakebistineau@crt.la.gov Website     Situated on the western shore of Lake Bistineau, this park offers a satisfying blend of beautiful vistas and outstanding recreational facilities. Memorable for its upland mixed hardwood forest, its open waters, and its enchanting stands of cypress and tupelo trees, the park offers two boat launches, hiking and biking trails, playgrounds, camping, cabins and excellent fishing!     Beginning in January with the "yo- yo" season and lasting through the spring, summer, and early fall, the dedicated fisherman can draw such freshwater catches as black crappie, large-mouth bass, yellow bass, catfish, bluegill, and red-ear sunfish from the lake's clear waters. Postcards from Louisiana. Delfeayo Marsalis at French Quarter Fest.  Listen on Apple Podcasts. Listen on audible. Listen on Spotify. Listen on TuneIn. Listen on iHeartRadio. The Louisiana Anthology Home Page. Like us on Facebook. 

How can you celebrate true freedom and equality on the 4th of July,  Independence Day?Focus on Frederick Douglass, an abolitionist and orator.In this episode, Aminata celebrates the life and legacy of Frederick Douglass in the context of the 4th of July. She converses with her son, Gabriel Anthony-Kemp, about the impact and inspiration drawn from Douglass's life. Gabriel discusses his admiration for Douglass's visionary and uncompromising spirit. The episode features a reading from Douglass's autobiography, highlighting the traumatic experiences of slavery, and underscores Douglass's dedication to not only freeing himself but also striving for the freedom of others. Check the show notes at dramandakemp.com for more information.Music is “Help Me” by Michael Jamanis (www.michaeljamanis.com)Timestamps:00:00 Introduction and Purpose00:07 Frederick Douglass and the 4th of July00:53 Conversation with Gabriel02:09 Gabriel's Admiration for Douglass04:15 Reading from Douglass's Autobiography07:13 Reflections on Douglass's LegacyWho is Frederick Douglass and Why is Frederick Douglass important?This episode shows our greatest leaders have always been concerned about solidarity and linking our movement for freedom with human rights of ALL people.  Please comment or share if you want to spread this message! In 1867, only two years after the slavery ended in the U.S., Douglass spoke out against racism against Chinese and Japanese Americans.  He argued that Chinese immigrants should be allowed to become citizens just like any other immigrants.He envisioned a "Composite Nation," a multi-racial, multicultural America that recognized human rights.  You can watch the music video featuring Douglass's Composite Nation speech here:  https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1f7_Mz7lbJk&t=4sDownload my free guide: 

In this episode we challenge the ideas about invisibility of Asian Americans in the urban Midwest by discussing Rebecca Jo Kinney's Mapping AsiaTown Cleveland: Race and Redevelopment in the Rust Belt (Temple University Press, 2025). Mapping AsiaTown Cleveland links the contemporary development of Cleveland's “AsiaTown” to the multiple and fragmented histories of Cleveland's Asian American communities from the 1940s to present. Kinney's sharp insights include Japanese Americans who resettled from internment camps, Chinese Americans food purveyors, and Asian American community leaders who have had to fight for visibility and representation in city planning—even as the Cleveland Asian Festival is branded as a marquee “diversity” event for the city. Importantly, this book contributes to a growing field of Asian American studies in the U.S. Midwest by foregrounding the importance of region in racial formation and redevelopment as it traces the history of racial segregation and neighborhood diversity in Cleveland during the 20th and 21st centuries. Rebecca Jo Kinney is a Fulbright Scholar and an interdisciplinary teacher and scholar of American Studies and Ethnic Studies at Bowling Green State University, Ohio, USA. Dr. Kinney's award-winning first book, Beautiful Wasteland: The Rise of Detroit as America's Postindustrial Frontier argues that contemporary stories told about Detroit's potential for rise enables the erasure of white supremacist systems. Her third book, Making Home in Korea: The Transnational Lives of Adult Korean Adoptees, is based on research undertaken while she was a Fulbright Scholar in South Korea. Her research has appeared in American Quarterly, Food, Culture & Society, Verge: Studies in Global Asia, Radical History Review, Race&Class, among other journals. Donna Doan Anderson (she/her) is a research assistant professor in the department of History at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

In this episode we challenge the ideas about invisibility of Asian Americans in the urban Midwest by discussing Rebecca Jo Kinney's Mapping AsiaTown Cleveland: Race and Redevelopment in the Rust Belt (Temple University Press, 2025). Mapping AsiaTown Cleveland links the contemporary development of Cleveland's “AsiaTown” to the multiple and fragmented histories of Cleveland's Asian American communities from the 1940s to present. Kinney's sharp insights include Japanese Americans who resettled from internment camps, Chinese Americans food purveyors, and Asian American community leaders who have had to fight for visibility and representation in city planning—even as the Cleveland Asian Festival is branded as a marquee “diversity” event for the city. Importantly, this book contributes to a growing field of Asian American studies in the U.S. Midwest by foregrounding the importance of region in racial formation and redevelopment as it traces the history of racial segregation and neighborhood diversity in Cleveland during the 20th and 21st centuries. Rebecca Jo Kinney is a Fulbright Scholar and an interdisciplinary teacher and scholar of American Studies and Ethnic Studies at Bowling Green State University, Ohio, USA. Dr. Kinney's award-winning first book, Beautiful Wasteland: The Rise of Detroit as America's Postindustrial Frontier argues that contemporary stories told about Detroit's potential for rise enables the erasure of white supremacist systems. Her third book, Making Home in Korea: The Transnational Lives of Adult Korean Adoptees, is based on research undertaken while she was a Fulbright Scholar in South Korea. Her research has appeared in American Quarterly, Food, Culture & Society, Verge: Studies in Global Asia, Radical History Review, Race&Class, among other journals. Donna Doan Anderson (she/her) is a research assistant professor in the department of History at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/asian-american-studies

The island of Alameda has produced some great baseball players. Hall of Fame hitter Willie Stargell even has a street named after him! Some of those ballplayers were Japanese American. In the years between World War I and World War II, the Alameda Taiiku-Kai thrived with great players like Sai Tawata leading the team and the community. Bay Curious listener Sam Hopkins saw a plaque commemorating the team's home plate and wanted to learn more about the team's history. Additional Resources: Rediscovering a Japanese-American Baseball Team in Alameda, Nearly Lost to Time Read the transcript for this episode Sign up for our newsletter Enter our Sierra Nevada Brewing Company monthly trivia contest Got a question you want answered? Ask! Your support makes KQED podcasts possible. You can show your love by going to https://kqed.org/donate/podcasts Special thanks to the Japanese American National Museum for use of the Topaz prison camp clip. That documentary was a gift of Dave Tatsuno, in Memory of Walter Honderich. This story was reported by Brian Watt. Bay Curious is made by Katrina Schwartz, Gabriela Glueck and Christopher Beale. Additional support from Olivia Allen-Price, Jen Chien, Katie Sprenger, Maha Sanad, Alana Walker, Holly Kernan and everyone on Team KQED.

Two hundred and ninety-nine episodes ago, we could not have possibly imagined George Takei appearing on the podcast. Some version of the actor has hung in our imaginations for most of our lives, and we spent many days of our early marriage obsessing over Star Trek, the original series, and its subsequent films. Thankfully, through this beautiful medium called comic books, our paths have crossed, and we get to celebrate our three-hundredth episode with one of our creative and cultural heroes. Takei's latest graphic novel, It Rhymes With Takei, reunites him with the same creative team behind They Called Us Enemy: artist Harmony Becker and writers Steven Scott and Justin Eisinger. Together, they tell the rest of Takei's story, which includes his time in the Japanese American internment camps during World War II. It Rhymes With Takei explores the many lessons George Takei learned from that experience, how it shaped his activism, and gave him the courage to battle through the numerous other injustices he would face and fight for and alongside others. The word "dystopia" gets thrown around a lot these days. It's certainly a go-to for us, and when you look outside your window or scroll through your phone, it's an easy, seemingly apt descriptor. Star Trek has started to feel like fantasy, not science fiction. However, George Takei encourages us to hang onto utopian possibilities. He asks us to accept the inevitability of change but strive toward a brighter, better future. As the news continuously fills us with dread, we needed this conversation with George Takei, and we're grateful to share it with you, beautiful comic book friends. Thank you for spending your time with us over these three hundred (or so) episodes. Your presence gets us to our recording table every week, and you've given new meaning to our lives. It Rhymes With Takei is out now from Top Shelf Productions. Get it wherever rad comics are found. Follow George Takei on Facebook, Instagram, Bluesky, and his Website. This Week's Sponsor We're sponsored by 2000 AD, the greatest comic you're not reading! Within its pages is a whole universe of characters, from Judge Dredd and Strontium Dog to Rogue Trooper, Shakara, Halo Jones, and the poor sods slogging across the Cursed Earth in The Helltrekkers. Get a print subscription at your door every week - and the first issue is free! Or subscribe digitally, get free back issues, and download DRM-free copies of each issue for just $9 a month. That's 128 pages of incredible monthly comics for less than $10. Other Relevant Links to This Week's Episode: Join Comic Book Club in Person CBCC's Comic Shop Road Trip Patreon Exclusive: Saga of the Swamp Thing Book Club Support Your Local Comic Shop Free Patreon Series Final Round of Plugs (PHEW): Support the Podcast by Joining OUR PATREON COMMUNITY. The Comic Book Couples Counseling TeePublic Merch Page. Don't forget to grab your tickets for our June 29th Alamo Drafthouse Winchester screening of James Gunn's THE SUICIDE SQUAD, co-sponsored by Four Color Fantasies. And, of course, follow Comic Book Couples Counseling on Facebook, on Instagram, and on Bluesky @CBCCPodcast, and you can follow hosts Brad Gullickson @MouthDork & Lisa Gullickson @sidewalksiren. Send us your Words of Affirmation by leaving us a 5-star Review on Apple Podcasts. Continue your conversation with CBCC by hopping over to our website, where we have reviews, essays, and numerous interviews with comic book creators. Podcast logo by Jesse Lonergan and Hassan Otsmane-Elhaou.

This “Best Of” episode originally aired in 2013 and was voted a listener favorite. David Hiroshima is a 3rd generation Japanese-American psychologist. He shares his experience and observations counseling sexual predators (rapists and child molesters) at Coalinga, a lockdown mental hospital in central California and how he used Buddhism to help him cope.If you're interested in seeing or buying the furniture that Paul designs and makes follow his IG for his woodworking which is transitioning from @MIHHfurniture to its new handle @ShapedFurniture WAYS TO HELP THE MIHH PODCASTSubscribe via Apple Podcasts (or whatever player you use). It costs nothing. It's extremely helpful to have your subscription set to download all episodes automatically. https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/mental-illness-happy-hour/id427377900?mt=2Spread the word via social media. It costs nothing.Our website is www.mentalpod.com our FB is www.Facebook.com/mentalpod and our Twitter and Instagram are both @Mentalpod Become a much-needed Patreon monthly-donor (with occasional rewards) for as little as $1/month at www.Patreon.com/mentalpod Become a one-time or monthly donor via PayPal at https://mentalpod.com/donateYou can also donate via Zelle (make payment to mentalpod@gmail.com) To donate via Venmo make payment to @Mentalpod See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Newt talks with Gerard Robinson, a professor of practice at the Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy at the University of Virginia, about his recent article on how World War II influenced prison policy. Their conversation explores Robinson's experiences mentoring youth in the juvenile justice system and teaching fifth grade, which shaped his views on criminal justice reform. They discuss the impact of high suspension rates on future incarceration, the importance of education in reducing recidivism, and innovative programs like Texas's Prison Entrepreneurship Program. Robinson shares insights from international prison visits, highlighting Norway's principle of normality and its potential application in the U.S. Their discussion also covers historical treatment of prisoners of war in the U.S. compared to Japanese Americans during WWII, and the implications of the 1871 Virginia Supreme Court ruling on prisoners as "slaves of the state." Robinson's work and publications are available through the University of Virginia and the American Enterprise Institute.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The US is planning to scale down its military presence in Syria from eight bases to one. We also take a look back at survivors of chemical attacks conducted by Assad regime forces during the Syrian civil war. And, exit polls show center-left Lee Jae-Myung winning the snap election in South Korea by a wide margin. Also, as officials in the US suspend visa interviews for all international students looking to study in the country, those from Latin America may be looking at other options. Plus, Japanese American musician Tina Johnson, known as Shima, is shifting from being in a J-Pop band in Tokyo to becoming an electronic solo artist.Listen to today's Music Heard on Air. Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

The GGACP team marks May's Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month by revisiting this interview with one of the world's best-loved pop culture figures, actor-activist George Takei. In this episode, George shares his feelings about Caucasian actors in Asian roles, speaks frankly about Japanese-American internment, expresses his gratitude to Trekkies and fondly remembers old friend Leonard Nimoy. Also, George feuds with William Shatner, chats up Jerry Lewis, runs into Cary Grant and rebukes Arnold Schwarzenegger. PLUS: Frank Gorshin! Celebrating James Hong! George channels Sir John Gielgud! Gilbert does his best Richard Burton! And the last of the Paramount contract players! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the special edition Bruce Lee Foundation takeover of the Bruce Lee Podcast for the month of May, Shannon is honored to welcome Olympic gold medalist Kristi Yamaguchi to the show. Everyone knows Kristi as a champion on the ice, but in her years since winning gold she has also become a devoted author, philanthropist, and lifelong advocate for youth literacy. Born in California to Japanese-American parents, Kristi's mother was born in a WWII internment camp while her grandfather served as a U.S. Army lieutenant. Kristi's journey reflects strength across generations and  is one of legacy and service. Kristi shares how a treasured Dorothy Hamill doll ignited her early passion for skating, and what it felt like to meet her idol moments before the biggest performance of her life. She also reflects on her touring years with Stars On Ice. Kristi opens up about the values her parents instilled in her around service and gratitude—and how those principles ultimately led her to found Kristi Yamaguchi's Always Dream, a nonprofit dedicated to early literacy and family engagement. Through her foundation, Kristi is helping ensure that children in underserved communities not only have access to high-quality books, but also the support needed to build a lifelong love of reading. Finally, Kristi opens up about a new passion she's been engaged in, and it's VERY Bruce Lee of her! Join Shannon and get to know how Kristi is continuing to shape an inspiring legacy that continues across generations! Show notes and more episodes at Brucelee.com/Podcast  Connect with Kristi…. Website:  www.alwaysdream.org Instagram: @kristiyamaguchi | @alwaysdream Facebook: Kristi Yamaguchi | Kristi Yamaguchi's Always Dream X: @kristiyamaguchi