Big Asian Energy

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!

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!