Fetishization and Pornography: A Harmful Lens

Trigger Warning: This episode contains discussions of sexual assault, nonconsensual image sharing, racism, and fetishization. Listener discretion is advised.

Kaila Yu is the author of the new memoir, Fetishized. In this episode, Kaila opens up about her personal journey navigating fetishization, media exploitation, and a sexual assault that was recorded and shared without her consent. We explore how pornography and media have distorted perceptions of Asian women, stripping away individuality and fueling harmful stereotypes that echo far beyond the screen. Kaila’s story highlights both the personal toll of these narratives and the urgent need to challenge them.

Episode Resources:

• Kaila's Book: Fetishized
• Kaila's Instagram: @Kailayu
• Article: 6 Marginalized & Vulnerable Groups of People Porn Fetishizes
• Podcast: Consider Before Consuming Ep. 125: Melanie Thompson