Immigrantly Hot Takes & Dumpling Folds With Irene Li
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What does it mean to cook with care, lead with equity, and challenge the rules of authenticity? In this episode, chef and entrepreneur Irene Li joins Saadia Khan for a powerful conversation about identity, food systems, and the evolving meaning of tradition. As the youngest-ever James Beard Leadership Award winner and co-founder of Mei Mei Dumplings, Irene has redefined what Chinese American cuisine can be, turning a Boston food truck into a values-driven culinary movement.
The episode explores why dumplings are more than comfort food, how open-book management changed Irene’s business, and why cultural appropriation in food needs a new framework, one that is rooted in reciprocity, transparency, and justice. Whether you're a food lover, a budding entrepreneur, or just hungry for stories that stir the pot, this episode delivers.
Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can find more information at http://immigrantlypod.com.
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You can connect with Saadia on Twitter @swkkhan
Email: saadia@immigrantlypod.com
Host & Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writer: Saadia Khan I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Lou Raskin I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound
Immigrantly podcast is an Immigrantly Media Production.
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