
Yellow Chair Collective: The Podcast
The Yellow Chair Collective Podcast explores identity, intersectionality, and mental health. Hosted by Soo Jin Lee and Linda Yoon, co-directors of Yellow Chair Collective—a group private practice offering culturally responsive mental health services—this season highlights the unique challenges and resilience of eldest daughters. Join us for conversations that uncover the intersections of culture, family, and personal growth.
Latest episodes

Nov 9, 2023 • 2min
Moment 10 - Exercise is NOT just about Losing Weight, Here's Where People Get it Wrong
Watch the full Episode w/ Eling Tsai here: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5H3f2OeJG3iFFghMVxmZmT?si=e7835d187b5640d6

Nov 4, 2023 • 36min
On Body Neutrality: A Conversation with Eling Tsai on Navigating Body Image Messaging
In today’s discussion, we have Asian American dietician nutritionist, Eling Tsai joining us for the 2nd time! She sheds light on the impact of white Eurocentric perspectives on Asian Americans, particularly when it comes to body image and food. We delve into the importance of challenging negative thoughts and beliefs around food and body, and how Eling's approach helps clients explore the roots of these beliefs.
Time Stamps
0:00 Intro
00:00:43 Nutrition counseling for chronic dieting recovery.
00:04:47 Limited training in communicating clinical nutrition information.
00:09:27 Food, identity, and culture explored from an Asian American perspective.
00:11:40 Questioning learned beliefs about body and food.
00:14:11 Naming, neutralizing thoughts, experimenting with labeled foods.
00:18:59 Practicality in client work; acknowledging cooking challenges.
00:23:14 Reframe, recognize, learn new skills, playful cooking.
00:27:09 Inaccessible cities hinder healthy eating options.
00:28:29 Compact spaces in urban areas pose challenges for professionals with limited resources. The session approach adapts to busy lives.
00:32:48 Benefits of movement beyond traditional exercise.
00:35:58 Parents provide food, kids decide how much to eat.
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nutritionwitheling/?hl=en
Website - https://www.withfoodincommon.com/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/elingtsai
Follow Yellow Chair Collective
Spotify https://open.spotify.com/show/23NdPdt17FyewUV2nx5BJu
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yellowchaircollective/
Website - https://yellowchaircollective.com/

Oct 28, 2023 • 10min
Japanese American Culture, Grief, and Documentary Filmmaking | Matthew Yonemura
Program Coordinator of Changing Tides and Documentary Filmmaker, Matthew Yonemura, opens up about the passing of someone close to Ryse Williams, and how it has impacted him and the documentary project.
We also touch on Matt's insecurities and personal growth as a Japanese American, his involvement in giving back to the community, and the intersections between mental health and filmmaking.
Personal Biography of Matthew -
Matthew is from Redondo Beach, California, and joined the CT Crew in 2020 and later employed as the Changing Tides Program Coordinator in 2021. He graduated in 2021 from DePaul University in Chicago, Illinois receiving his Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Film and Television with a concentration in Directing, which he utilizes in creating his film, Ryse Up Documentary, telling the story of Ryse Williams, a star basketball player who died due to a rare form of cancer the day before his high school graduation.
Follow Yellow Chair - https://yellowchaircollective.com/
Follow Changing Tides: https://thechangingtides.org/

Oct 21, 2023 • 10min
Eating Disorders and Mental Health with Ashley Acle
Welcome back to Yellow Chair Collective: The Podcast, where we delve into the depths of human experiences and emotions. In today's episode, we have a thought-provoking conversation with Ashley Acle, LMFT, as we explore the intricate connection between the immigrant experience, eating disorders, and Asian American mental health.
Learn more about Ashley - https://ashleyaclemft.com/
Follow Yellow Chair - https://yellowchaircollective.com/
Time Stamps
0:00 Intro
00:00:32 Consider emotional impact; not a replacement for professional help. Let's explore food, culture, and rest.
00:03:58 Empathy for complicated relationships with food/body. Love for interconnected work, creating safe space.
00:07:02 We are all cultural human beings.

Sep 14, 2023 • 58min
How do You Understand Your Body's Internal Wisdom and Listen to Body Cues? | Jennie Tian, Somatic Healing Coach
On this episode of Yellow Chair Collective: The Podcast, we have Jennie Tian - the founder of Body Works Coaching. Jennie is dedicated to helping individuals navigate through their traumatic experiences and find healing.
With a deep understanding of the mind-body connection, she uses her expertise to guide her clients towards emotional and physical well-being. Jennie's passion for her work stems from her belief in the importance of addressing and healing the effects of trauma.
Through her compassionate and evidence-based approach, she has helped countless individuals on their journey towards healing and transformation.
Time Stamps
0:00 Intro
00:02:35 - IceBreaker Questions - Ramen & Reality TV Shows
00:06:54 - What is somatic healing & how does it help with our trauma?
00:11:37 - Importance of safety in trauma work - potential retraumatization
00:15:52 - Jennie's personal journey with somatic healing
00:20:06 - Bottom Up vs. Top Down processing explained.
00:22:31 - Jennie's family background
00:26:24 - Autism: Opposite symptoms, disconnection or sensitivity.
00:31:12 - Jennie's healing experience- CBT therapy helpful until it wasn't
00:37:20 - What is - Baselining, discharge, and supported cries
00:42:34 - Learn attunement, interpret body sensations, manage anxiety.
00:48:46 - Somatic experiencing, pendulation: regulating nervous system.
00:51:24 - Explore multiple healing modalities beyond talk therapy.
00:53:55 - Survival triggers and relationship dynamics.
Follow Jennie
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennietian
Tiktok - https://www.tiktok.com/@bodyworkscoaching
Follow Yellow Chair: https://yellowchaircollective.carrd.co/

Sep 9, 2023 • 47min
Perfectionism, Disordered Eating, and Embracing Asian American Identity with Megan Soun, MSW
On the latest episode of Yellow Chair Collective, we have fellow therapist of the Collective - Megan Soun. In this episode, Megan opens up about her personal journey with perfectionism, disordered eating, and the power of embracing her Asian identity.
Time Stamps
00:00:00 Intro
00:05:35 Being Asian in primarily white and black context shaped me.
00:07:42 Discovery of racial justice, internalized racism, Asian identity.
00:11:49 Unpacking disordered eating and its spectrum.
00:18:06 Struggling with disordered eating, faith, and racism.
00:22:07 Importance of faith in healing and identity.
00:27:33 Obsession with audio technology, forgetting purpose.
00:29:39 Joy and uncertainty led me to therapy.
00:35:35 Misery prompted change in therapist perfectionism
00:40:27 Being kinder to myself, creating possibilities, containing perfectionism.
00:43:29 Passions: dance, reading, baking, socializing.
00:46:59 Gratitude for Megan's vulnerability and growth.
Follow Yellow Chair - https://yellowchaircollective.carrd.co/

Sep 1, 2023 • 1h 11min
IG LIVE with Aussie + Sam from "The Ultimatum" on Healthy Communication in Romantic Relationship
Hi Yellow Chairs! We have a special treat for you. We will be diving deep into the world of reality TV, relationships, and mental health. Joining us today are two incredible individuals, Sam Mark and Aussie Chau, a queer couple who have recently made waves on the hit Netflix show, "Ultimatum."
This episode is not just about reality TV drama. It's about unpacking the complexities of relationships, exploring the intersection of queer identity and mental health, and redefining success in the face of public scrutiny. Sam and Aussie's story serves as a beacon of hope and resilience for all of us, as they remind us that authentic connections and emotional well-being should never be compromised, even in the most challenging circumstances.
Time Stamps
0:00 Intro
00:03:56 Sam Using Oracle cards for clear messages.
00:09:09 Handling backlash after episodes dropped was unexpected.
00:11:33 Unsettling and painful experience, lingering emotional impact.
00:21:06 Lack of support and trust caused problems.
00:22:50 Overcoming challenges, healing anxiousness, & connecting dots
00:32:13 Personal growth through self-reflection and spiritual exploration.
00:35:49 Active listening, reflection and empathy promote understanding.
00:41:48 Turning things into playful games and lightening the mood.
00:46:19 Openness, acceptance, and humor define your relationship.
00:50:43 Spiritual practice helped me stay grounded, despite adversity.
01:03:46 Rewatching shows and movies reveals deep spiritual themes.
Follow Aussie
Aussie's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aussie_has_fomo/
Request Cameo w/ Aussie - https://www.cameo.com/aussie88?utm_campaign=profile_share
Follow Sam
Sam's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/conscious.altruism/
Request Sam on Cameo - https://www.cameo.com/consciousaltruism?utm_campaign=profile_share
Follow Saussie!!
Keep it Saussie Website - https://keepitsaussie.com/#scroll-to-top
Keep it Saussie Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/keepitsaussie/
Follow Yellow Chair - https://yellowchaircollective.carrd.co/

Aug 25, 2023 • 55min
How do You Heal from Anxious Attachment & Childhood Trauma? | Aussie from the Ultimatum
In this episode, we dive deep into Aussie's personal journey of healing and self-discovery. From listening to an audiobook that challenged their beliefs to experiencing a powerful message from a higher power, Aussie shares their profound moments of realization and transformation. We also unpack the impact of childhood experiences on attachment styles and relationships, and the importance of personal growth and self-love. Aussie's honest and vulnerable reflections will inspire you to seek healing, embrace change, and find magic within yourself and your relationships.
Trigger Warning - Episode mentions sexual trauma, domestic violence, and abuse. Please consider your mental health prior to watching/listening to this episode.
Follow Aussie
Aussie's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/aussie_has_...
Keep it Saussie Website - https://keepitsaussie.com/#scroll-to-top
Request Cameo w/ Aussie - https://www.cameo.com/aussie88?utm_ca...
Keep it Saussie Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/keepitsaussie/
Follow Yellow Chair - https://yellowchaircollective.carrd.co/
Time Stamps
0:00 Intro
00:05:28 Aussie's Mom - love shown through food, repairing relationship.
00:11:25 Realization of denial and trauma recovery journey.
00:17:50 Aussie's dad - his transition from doctor to taxi driver.
00:22:04 "I Realized my sadness due to lack of parenting."
00:24:08 Childhood neglect; healing impact on relationships.
00:28:04 Craving secure attachment, overcoming past trauma
00:33:49 Recognition of need for relationships, self-healing journey, finding secure attachment.
00:40:27 Raised Catholic, mother Buddhist, dad Catholic. Mom converted, secretly went to the temple. Initially condemned mom, then questioned teachings. Suppressed sexuality, felt teachings were wrong. Angry, turned away from God. Reconnected in 2011.
00:43:35 First audiobook, emotional experience, finding inspiration.
00:48:00 Morning routine and the power of surrender.
00:51:16 Favorite book, brings new insights, practice presence.

Aug 17, 2023 • 1h 9min
Queer Identity & Spiritual Healing with Sam Mark from the Ultimatum
Join us for a captivating episode of the Yellow Chair Collective Podcast as we sit down with the remarkable Sam Mark (she/her), a radiant presence known from her journey on "The Ultimatum: Queer Love." In this profound conversation, we delve into the intricate art of making relationships flourish while navigating the terrain of emotional wounds.From her courageous path through emotional abuse to her unwavering commitment to spiritual healing.Through candid dialogue, Sam reveals how she found her voice and reclaimed her agency. This episode is an invitation to engage in conversations that inspire growth, reflection, and renewed commitment to personal evolution.
Follow Sam
Sam's Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/conscious.altruism/
Request Sam on Cameo - https://www.cameo.com/consciousaltruism?utm_campaign=profile_share
Keep it Saussie Website - https://keepitsaussie.com/#scroll-to-top
Keep it Saussie Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/keepitsaussie/
Follow Yellow Chair - https://yellowchaircollective.carrd.co/
Time Stamps
0:00 Intro
00:06:40 Spiritual journey, meeting Assie, creating brand
00:15:41 Spiritual journey opens up self-exploration and acceptance.
00:18:20 Virtual meetup group provides safe community.
00:24:37 Discovering my true sexuality, ending long-term relationship.
00:31:05 Different perspectives, shared values, and growth.
00:37:16 "Journey of self-discovery and advocacy for myself."
00:43:47 Emotion awareness, suppressed feelings, toxic productivity.
00:50:28 Music channels deep emotions and transcends borders.
00:53:12 Tarot Healer: Empowering self-discovery and healing.
00:59:09 Finance conversation reveals toxic cultures and disparities.
01:05:38 Experiencing contrast important in relationships and work. Indirectly showing DEI (diversity, equity, inclusion) concepts without force.

Aug 3, 2023 • 55min
What is Toxic Diet Culture? | Nutritionist and Intuitive Eating Coach, Eling Tsai
Welcome back to Yellow Chair Collective: The Podcast! In today's episode we talk to registered dietitian and Intuitive Eating coach, Eling Tsai about the complexities of diet culture and the impact it can have on our lives.
We discuss how discussions around food have been stripped of nuance, perpetuating the idea of acceptable food types and acceptable bodies. From the demonization of certain foods to the elevation of others as "superfoods," we examine the powerful role that marketing plays in shaping our perceptions and beliefs about what we should and shouldn't consume.
Join us on this eye-opening journey as we unravel the layers of the diet culture dilemma, challenging the status quo and encouraging a more compassionate, understanding approach to our relationship with food. Get ready to question the narratives that we've been fed and explore the importance of embracing a more nuanced perspective. Let's dive in!
Time Stamps 0:00 Intro
00:00:09 Diet culture promotes thinness, stigmatizes fatness.
00:04:12 Changing expectations, tiredness, showing up for people.
00:12:08 Unexpected encounters can improve our day
00:15:44 Pivotal moments led to change in Eling's career to nutrition
00:20:06 Eling moving to New York. Changing careers to nutrition.
00:24:55 Eling's Career choices were not easy, but important.
00:27:28 Challenging Traditional dietitian roles, community health, counseling. Chance encounter with colleague changed everything.
00:31:03 Passion for food led to Eling's career evolution.
00:33:36 Diet culture promotes thinness and stigmatizes fatness.
00:36:54 Toxic diet culture gives harmful body messages.
00:41:05 Whiteness and diet culture promote certain foods.
00:44:24 Diet culture and body image impact food choices.
00:51:01 Check-in with yourself, try something new. Food norms don't have to be standard. Reconnect with your body and listen to its cues. Judging hunger and fullness leads to anxiety.
Follow Eling
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/nutritionwitheling/?hl=en
Website - https://www.withfoodincommon.com/
Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/elingtsai
Follow Yellow Chair Collective
Spotify -https://open.spotify.com/show/23NdPdt17FyewUV2nx5BJu
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/yellowchaircollective/
Website - https://yellowchaircollective.com/