Big Asian Energy

 In this episode of Big Asian Energy, we sit down with therapist and founder of The Men’s Therapy Studio, Gabi Koyenov, whose Central Asian Jewish identity challenges the typical definition of "Asian American." We explore the complexities of heritage, generational expectations, and what it means to show up for ourselves and others as men, children of immigrants, and healing humans. What Gabi Shares: Expanding the definition of Asian American Identity Intergenerational and cultural gaps in immigrant households The unique struggles men face in therapy and identity work About Gabi KoyenovGabi Koyenov is a New York–based licensed marriage and family therapist and the founder of The Men’s Therapy Studio, a space dedicated to helping men navigate mental health, relationships, and self-discovery. With roots in Central Asia and a background in Jewish tradition, Gabi brings a unique cultural lens to his work, blending clinical methods with holistic care and deep empathy. Connect with GabiWebsite: themenstherapystudio.comInstagram: @journey_with_gabiPodcast: The Gabi Koyenov Podcast (Apple)YouTube: @gabikoyenov  

In this episode, Clifford Temprosa joins us to talk about what it really means to build power across the Asian diaspora. We get into the importance of identity work in advocacy, what it takes to organize across generations, and how he's helped secure over $30 million in funding for AAPI nonprofits. What we covered: Insights on Asian American nonprofit advocacy and funding strategies How to reclaim your identity and worth beyond stereotypes How we can bridge the disconnect that generational gaps and diaspora create in organizing About Clifford: Clifford Temprosa is an advocate, TEDx speaker, nonprofit leader and political strategist dedicated to advancing Asian American power and visibility. As the founder of Dare to Change Consulting, he’s helped unlock over $30 million in funding for Asian-led organizations through strategy, storytelling, and sustainability. A proud Filipino-Chinese immigrant, Clifford’s work bridges generations, cultures, and movements to create lasting systems of change and as the creator of Margins Of, he illuminates Asian stories and experiences as shapers of democracy.  Find Clifford here: Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/cliffordtemprosa Website : https://www.wedaretochange.com/

After years of building, researching interviewing and writing and rewriting more times than I can count—it’s here. Big Asian Energy, my debut book, is officially out in the world. This episode is different. It’s just me—no guest, no script—sharing the real story behind the book. Where the idea came from, what it took to write, what I’ve never said publicly about the process, and why I almost didn’t do it at all. I made this episode because I know I would’ve wanted to hear it when I was starting out. And I made this book because I couldn’t find one that captured the full picture—not just the workplace challenges or the stereotypes, but the internal stuff no one talks about. In this episode, I talk about: The moment I knew this book needed to exist How my personal story (from awkward kid to coach) shaped everything What the research says about how Asian Americans are seen—and why that matters The “bamboo ceiling,” and what I learned from real clients at places like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft What nobody tells you about book deals, imposter syndrome, and the emotional crash after finishing Why this book isn’t for every Asian, but for the ones who feel unseen, under-recognized, or stuck What’s actually inside the book—from scripts to speak up to healing family patterns What’s inside the book Here’s just some of what I cover: Why Asian confidence hits different—and how to rebuild it from the inside out The 3 internal patterns that keep us quiet: the Achiever, the Fixer, and the Chameleon Self-sabotage in disguise: over-apologizing, minimizing your work, or rejecting yourself before anyone else can The “achievement treadmill”—when nothing ever feels good enough Scripts to speak up at work, call out microaggressions, and say no without guilt How to navigate family expectations with respect and boundaries How to find your voice—without letting go of your values  If you take away one thingThis book isn’t trying to speak for all of us. That’s impossible. But if it helps you feel even a little more seen—or a little less alone—then it was worth writing. I hope it sparks conversation. I hope it starts something that goes far beyond me. And I hope, above all, it helps you show up—not as who the world expects you to be, but as who you already are. Grab Your Copy Buy the book:https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/742831/big-asian-energy-by-john-wang/ Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Big-Asian-Energy-Unapologetic-Leadership/dp/0593475437 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/big-asian-energy-john-wang/1146224703 More resources: www.bigasianenergy.com Say hi!  john@bigasianenergy.com | team@bigasianenergy.com  

In this joyful and deeply resonant episode of Big Asian Energy, we welcome back Dr. Stacey Litam—tenured professor, licensed therapist, and bestselling author of Healing Patterns That Remain. Back by popular demand, Dr. Stacey joins us for a special “snack therapy” episode where we explore identity, childhood memories, and healing through the foods we grew up with.   What starts as a nostalgic taste test turns into a powerful conversation on belonging, bicultural identity, and inner child healing. With her signature warmth and insight, Dr. Stacey helps us unpack what it means to feel “not Asian enough,” how to hold space for grief and joy at once, and why sometimes the most healing thing you can do is cut your own fruit.   Dr. Stacey shares: • How food helps us reconnect with cultural identity and emotional safety • What diasporic grief and diasporic joy really feel like • Why so many Asian Americans wrestle with “not enough-ness”—and how to reframe it • The difference between assimilation and integration (and why one supports better mental health) • What healing looks like when it’s playful, embodied, and rooted in joy If you’ve ever felt caught between cultures, unsure how to “belong,” or just want a comforting conversation that goes deep while keeping it real—this episode is for you.   Connect with Dr. Stacey: Website: https://www.staceylitam.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drstaceyalitam  Buy Healing Patterns That Remain: https://www.staceylitam.com/patterns-that-remain-a-guide-to-healing-for-asian-children-of-immigrants    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

In this empowering episode of Big Asian Energy, we sit down with Sheena Yap Chan—Wall Street Journal bestselling author, speaker, and host of The Tao of Self-Confidence podcast. With over 800 interviews under her belt, Sheena brings deep insight into what holds so many women back from fully stepping into their power—and what it takes to break through. We talk about the realities of self-doubt, how perfectionism and fear keep us stuck, and why learning to believe in yourself is the most radical, life-changing thing you can do. Sheen Shares: The truth behind the confidence gap—and how it affects women in leadership Why we’re conditioned to play small (and how to break free) What “ready, fire, aim” looks like in action Why self-promotion isn’t tacky—it’s leadership How to reframe rejection, get visible, and believe you’re enough Whether you’re dreaming of publishing a book, going for that next promotion, or just want to feel less alone on the path to confidence, this conversation is for you. About Sheena Yap Chan: Sheena is a Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Tao of Self-Confidence and her latest book Bridging the Confidence Gap: How Empowered Women Change the World is out now. She’s the host of a podcast of the same name, which has hit 1M+ downloads. Her work has been featured in NBC, Mindvalley, The Manila Times, and more.Connect with Sheena: Take Sheena's Self-Confidence Quiz : https://www.sheenayapchan.com/quizInstagram:https://www.instagram.com/sheena.yap.chan/?hl=enLinkedin: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/sheenayapchan The Tao of Self-Confidence Podcast: https://thetaoofselfconfidence.com/Pre order Bridging the Gap: https://www.sheenayapchan.com/bridgingtheconfidencegap 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

What does it take to reshape an industry from the inside out? In this in-person episode of Big Asian Energy, John sits down with Christine Hung, Executive Director of Marketing at Vintage Books (Penguin Random House) and interim director of People of Color in Publishing. From growing up in Minnesota to working on campaigns for literary icons like James Baldwin and Toni Morrison, Christine shares how her journey has been quietly powered by advocacy, storytelling, and community. They dive deep into the unspoken realities of publishing—who gets in, who gets left out, and why representation isn’t just about who’s on the page, but who’s in the room. With humor, heart, and plenty of honesty, Christine reflects on identity, negotiation, diversity in publishing, and why she’d love to teach a class on financial literacy. What You’ll Learn: Why representation—both on the page and behind the scenes—matters more than ever How financial privilege and gatekeeping shape who gets to work in publishing What it really means to advocate for inclusion from inside the system Why curiosity, connection, and negotiation are essential tools for career growth How we can reimagine publishing to be more transparent, equitable, and inclusive Connect with Christine and POC in Publishing! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pocpub/ Website: https://www.pocinpublishing.com/

Ever had a project, story, or dream you just couldn’t start—or finish—because you were overthinking every detail? You're not alone. In this solo episode of Big Asian Energy, we explore the concept of perfection paralysis—the fear-fueled freeze that keeps high achievers stuck in their heads and out of action. John breaks down the difference between healthy and unhealthy perfectionism, why procrastination is often not laziness, and how cultural expectations around success and "saving face" deeply influence our creative courage. If you've ever told yourself "I'm just not ready yet," this episode will help you reframe that mindset and finally get moving. What You’ll Learn: The difference between adaptive vs. maladaptive perfectionism How procrastination often masks a fear of judgment or shame Why cultural messaging around success can create deep creative blocks What “conditional belonging” has to do with performance anxiety How to start before you’re ready—and why you must Real-life stories from coaching clients who felt stuck, and what helped them move forward   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

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

What if the life you built isn’t the one you were meant to live? In this deeply moving episode of Big Asian Energy, I sit down with Jackie Kai Ellis—designer, award-winning pastry chef, entrepreneur, and bestselling author of The Measure of My Powers. Jackie opens up about burnout, depression, and the courage it took to walk away from a life that looked successful but didn’t feel fulfilling. Through vulnerability, creativity, and a chocolate chip cookie, she found her way back to herself—and built something entirely new. What You’ll Learn: How burnout and self-doubt can become turning points toward reinvention Why following small joys can unlock life-changing clarity How Jackie overcame cultural and personal fears to start over in her 30s The reality of family pressure, identity, and pursuing joy as an Asian woman How to trust yourself, even when the path isn’t clear Connect with Jackie Kai Ellis!Website:https://www.jackiekaiellis.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackiekaiellis 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 Tune in now for a soulful conversation on reinvention, resilience, and what it really means to come home to yourself.

What does it truly mean to be a leader? Leadership isn’t about having all the answers or demanding authority—it’s about curiosity, learning, and the willingness to serve others. But how do we redefine leadership beyond titles and perfection? In this insightful episode, we sit down with Tony Delarosa, an educator, speaker, and advocate for inclusive leadership. Tony challenges the traditional ideas of leadership, highlighting how curiosity, vulnerability, and a deep commitment to learning are the true markers of impactful leaders. From navigating self-doubt to embracing lifelong learning, this conversation will reshape how you view leadership and your role in it. What You’ll Learn: Why true leadership is rooted in curiosity, not perfection How to earn trust and credibility as a leader in your community The importance of embracing mistakes and continuous learning How counter-narratives can reshape leadership and representation Practical ways to lead with authenticity and purpose Connect with Tony Delarosa!Website:https://www.tonyrosaspeaks.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tonyrosaspeaks/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonydelarosa89/ Let’s connect on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnwangofficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnwangofficial/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnwangbae   Tune in now for a thought-provoking conversation on redefining leadership, curiosity, and making a lasting impact!