Stay Tuned with Preet

The Immigrant Experience (with Min Jin Lee)

May 26, 2022

Min Jin Lee, celebrated author of "Pachinko" and "Free Food for Millionaires," dives deep into the complexities of Asian American identity and the immigrant experience. She discusses the political implications of the term 'Asian American' and critiques the model minority stereotype. The conversation touches on societal pressures, the challenges of generational aspirations, and the importance of storytelling in addressing cultural identity. Lee also shares insights on recent political events, adding her unique perspectives on advocacy and community.

01:12:03

Episode guests

Min Jin Lee

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Intro

2min

Exploring AAPI Identity and Congressional Hearings

2min

Understanding the Grand Jury System and Indictments

4min

The Constitutional Dilemma of a Non-Elected Speaker

4min

Cultural Reflections and Personal Anecdotes

12min

Navigating Asian American Identity

13min

Navigating Expectations: The Asian American Experience

4min

Navigating Generational Ambitions

21min

Justice and Community: Empowering Through Legal Aid

8min

Min Jin Lee is one of the most celebrated authors of our time. She wrote Free Food for Millionaires and Pachinko, which was a National Book Award Finalist. Lee, who is Korean American, often writes about Asian American identity and the immigrant experience. Preet spoke with Lee about the political value of “Asian American” as a category, the problem with the debate over affirmative action, and her famously rigorous research process.

Plus, analysis of the upcoming January 6 Committee hearings, a grand jury indictment of the Buffalo supermarket shooter, and how Donald Trump could become Speaker of the House.

In the bonus for CAFE Insiders, Lee discusses the politics of hard work, and what makes someone a “functioning introvert.” To listen, try the membership for just $1 for one month: cafe.com/insider.

For show notes and a transcript of the episode, head to: https://cafe.com/stay-tuned/the-immigrant-experience-with-min-jin-lee/

Tweet your questions to @PreetBharara with hashtag #askpreet, email us at staytuned@cafe.com, or call 669-247-7338 to leave a voicemail.

Stay Tuned with Preet is brought to you by CAFE and the Vox Media Podcast Network.

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