Big Asian Energy

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!

How do we turn adversity into strength and step fully into our power? For many, personal struggles, cultural expectations, and self-doubt hold us back from embracing confidence and leadership. But what if your challenges could become the foundation for your success? In this empowering episode of Big Asian Energy, we welcome Jiggy Yoon, a coach, speaker, and advocate for self-confidence and leadership. Jiggy shares her powerful journey of overcoming hardship, breaking free from limiting beliefs, and helping others do the same. From battling imposter syndrome to finding your voice in leadership, this episode is packed with wisdom, personal stories, and practical strategies for stepping into the most authentic and powerful version of yourself. What You’ll Learn: Why embracing your story is key to building unshakable confidence How to navigate self-doubt and imposter syndrome in leadership What steps you can take today to own your power and make an impact The role of cultural identity in shaping self-worth and personal growth How to cultivate a mindset shift that allows you to thrive in your career and relationships Connect with Jiggy! Website: https://www.jiggyyoon.comInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/jiggy_yoonLinkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/naeunjiggyyoon   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 an inspiring conversation on confidence, resilience, and stepping into your true power! 🎧

Why do so many Asian Americans struggle with behavioral addictions and mental health stigma? For many, cultural expectations, family dynamics, and a lack of open conversations create deep challenges in addressing emotional well-being. The need for healing and connection is more important than ever. In this powerful episode of Big Asian Energy, we sit down with Tom Kim, a licensed professional counselor, scholar, and speaker specializing in behavioral addictions, trauma, and Asian American mental health. Tom unpacks how gaming, internet use, and other behavioral dependencies impact our well-being, and why fostering community-driven healing is essential. What You’ll Learn:  Why behavioral addictions (gaming, social media, etc.) develop and how they affect Asian American communities How gaming and online spaces fulfill unmet emotional needs like validation, autonomy, and connection What steps families and individuals can take to build healthier relationships and break harmful patterns   Connect with Oikos! Website: https://www.oikoscnc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/oikos_cnc/   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 an eye-opening conversation on mental health, addiction, and healing in Asian communities!

Why do so many high achievers, especially in Asian communities, struggle with burnout? For many, success is deeply tied to identity, self-worth, and cultural expectations—but at what cost? In this powerful episode of Big Asian Energy, we welcome Newton Cheng, Global Director of Health & Performance at Google, world champion powerlifter, and mental health advocate. Newton shares his personal experience with burnout, the pressure of achievement, and how he redefined success to prioritize his well-being. What You’ll Learn: Why high achievers—especially in Asian cultures—feel pressure to keep pushing, even at the cost of their well-being. How Newton confronted the “achievement monster” and reframed his relationship with success. What practical steps you can take to avoid burnout while still pursuing excellence. Connect with Georgianna! Website : https://www.newtoncheng.com/ Instagram : http://instagram.com/newtoncheng/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/newtoncheng   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 and take the first step toward self-acceptance and deeper connections!

Why do so many of us struggle with self-acceptance and deep, fulfilling relationships? For many, childhood experiences, societal expectations, and inherited beliefs shape how we see ourselves and connect with others. The journey to healing requires self-compassion, awareness, and the willingness to break old patterns. In this insightful episode of Big Asian Energy, we welcome Georgianna Lee, a counselor, relationship coach, and parenting expert with nearly two decades of experience helping individuals and families—especially in Asian communities—build meaningful connections. Georgianna shares how self-love transforms every aspect of our lives and provides powerful tools to cultivate healthier relationships. What You’ll Learn: Why self-acceptance is so difficult, especially within Asian cultural contexts, and how to shift towards self-love How childhood experiences shape relationship dynamics and emotional patterns What reparenting yourself looks like and how it leads to deeper healing Connect with Georgianna! Website : https://www.georgiannalee.com Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/georgiannalee/ 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 and take the first step toward self-acceptance and deeper connections!

Have you ever had a brilliant idea but struggled to voice it? Do you find yourself holding back in meetings, only to see someone else take credit for a thought you had first? Developing a strong presence isn’t just about confidence—it’s about strategy, influence, and visibility. In this insightful episode of Big Asian Energy, we welcome Lorraine K. Lee, keynote speaker, LinkedIn Top Voice, and author of Unforgettable Presence: Get Seen, Gain Influence, and Catapult Your Career. Lorraine shares practical strategies to build confidence, make your voice heard, and establish a powerful presence—both in-person and virtually. Whether you're an introvert or someone looking to refine your leadership skills, this conversation will equip you with the tools to stand out in today's competitive landscape. What You’ll Learn: -How to develop an Unforgettable Presence and own your space -The difference between mentors and sponsors—and why you need both -How to self-advocate for promotions without feeling “salesy” -Practical tips to strengthen your virtual presence and LinkedIn brand -The power of small talk in building relationships and career opportunities Connect with Lorraine! Website: https://lorraineklee.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorraineklee/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorraineklee/ 📚 Unforgettable Presence: Get Seen, Gain Influence, and Catapult Your Career 👉 Buy it Here: https://www.lorraineklee.com/amazon-preorder/ 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 and take charge of your career trajectory!

We’re back and better than ever! After a short break, Big Asian Energy is returning with a fresh season filled with powerful conversations, bold perspectives, and unapologetic storytelling. In this episode, we’re setting the stage for what’s ahead—new guests, deeper discussions, and more ways to uplift Asian voices. Whether we’re tackling cultural identity, career journeys, or breaking stereotypes, this season is all about amplifying our community like never before. What to Expect This Season: ✅ Thought-provoking conversations with trailblazers ✅ Unfiltered takes on Asian representation ✅ Stories that inspire, challenge, and empower   Join us on our socials! Facebook: John Wang Official Instagram: @johnwangofficial TikTok: @johnwangbae Let’s turn up the volume on our voices.

What does it mean to heal the generational and cultural patterns that shape our identity as Asian Americans? For many, the journey involves understanding the unspoken "meta messages" passed down in families, navigating cultural expectations, and finding a way to honor their heritage while embracing their authentic selves. These challenges often leave individuals feeling caught between two worlds, searching for clarity and healing. In this inspiring episode of Big Asian Energy, we welcome Dr. Stacey Diane Arañez Litam (she, her, siya), a licensed professional clinical counselor, Associate Professor, and author of Patterns That Remain: A Guide to Healing for Asian Children of Immigrants. Dr. Litam shares insights on healing intergenerational trauma, understanding attachment styles, dismantling the model minority myth, and reclaiming authentic self-expression—all while fostering mental well-being and honoring cultural heritage.   Connect with Dr. Stacey! https://staceylitam.com/ https://www.instagram.com/drstaceyalitam/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/staceydianealitam/  📚"Patterns That Remain: A Guide to Healing for Asian Children of Immigrants" Available on Amazon 👉Buy it Here Let’s connect on socials! Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/johnwangofficial Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/johnwangofficial/ Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@johnwangbae