Into the Story: Learn English with True Stories

#65 | Being Yourself (with Archy Jamjun)

Oct 8, 2024

Archy Jamjun, a talented storyteller and co-organizer of Outspoken LGBTQ Stories in Chicago, shares his journey of self-discovery and acceptance. He reflects on the challenges of growing up in a family with high expectations while grappling with his identity. Archy discusses the pivotal role of a family member who helped him embrace his true self. He also explores the influence of his beloved aunt and the beauty rituals they shared, emphasizing the power of love, acceptance, and community in overcoming struggles.

20:07

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Episode guests

Archy Jamjun

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Episode notes

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

Archy's journey emphasizes the importance of self-acceptance and the struggle against societal beauty standards faced by individuals.

The transformative role of his Aunt Nathu underscores how familial support can profoundly influence one's self-worth and identity development.

Deep dives

Struggles with Identity and Beauty

Archie Jamjoon, a child of Thai immigrants in Chicago, grapples with his identity and societal expectations around beauty. As a young boy, he yearns to be noticed like his sister Annie, who embodies the traditional standards of attractiveness, leading Archie to feel invisible and overlooked. His desire to be beautiful becomes a source of conflict, particularly when using his sister's beauty products sparks tension between them. This struggle highlights the pressure children face in aligning their identities with family and societal norms, revealing the complexity of growing up in a culture that emphasizes external appearance.

Intro

3min

Exploring Vocabulary Through Contextual Examples

3min

Yearning for Recognition: A Sibling's Struggle

6min

Aunt's Legacy: Beauty and Acceptance

6min

A Desire for Elegance and Acceptance

2min

Growing up, Archy Jamjun didn't feel seen, until someone finally saw him for who he really was.

Level: Advanced

Accent: United States (Chicago)

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5 Words & Expressions in Today's Story:

- TO THROW DOWN THE GAUNTLET: To challenge or invite someone to compete or flight. "She threw down the gauntlet by saying she could win the competition."

- TO FLING: To throw or push something with force. "She flung her coat onto the chair."

- TO BE ADEPT: To be good at doing something. "She is adept at solving math problems."

- TO MAKE THE NEWSPAPERS: To be featured in the news or media, especially in newspapers. "The story made the front page of the newspapers."

- TO SHOWER SOMEONE WITH SOMETHING: To give someone a lot of presents, praise, or attention. "On her birthday, she was showered with gifts by her friends."

Episode Links:

- Follow Archy Jamjun on Instagram @archyjam

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Sponsors That Support This Podcast:

-⁠⁠ ⁠Free course Cambridge B2 First⁠⁠⁠ for Spanish speakers from AC English School
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