Big Asian Energy Rewriting the Rules of Publishing with Jafreen Uddin
What if the problem isn’t your story—but the system deciding who gets to tell theirs?
In this eye-opening episode of Big Asian Energy, I talk with Jafreen Uddin, Executive Director of the Asian American Writers’ Workshop (AAWW)—and the first woman to lead the organization in its 30-year history. From her early nonprofit roots to reshaping the publishing world, Jafreen shares how she’s working to create radically inclusive spaces for Asian American writers and readers alike.
We get into the real talk behind publishing: who it excludes, how Asian American authors are often boxed in, and why building community is the key to both creativity and change.
What You’ll Learn:
- Why over 90% of published authors and publishing staff in the U.S. are white
- The invisible pressure Asian American writers feel to “represent the whole”
- How the scarcity mindset harms storytelling and writer relationships
- Why flawed, imperfect, and messy stories need to exist
- How AAWW is disrupting the traditional gatekeeping in publishing
Connect with Jafreen Uddin!
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jafreenmu/
Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jafreen-uddin
Let’s connect on socials!
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnwangofficial
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnwangofficial/
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnwangbae
Pre-order Alert!
My new book Big Asian Energy is almost here—and I’m giving away exclusive preorder bundles!
Get a free bonus book bundle when you preorder. Preorder now: https://www.bigasianenergy.com/book-bonus-bundle