Color of Success
The Color of Success communicates the stories of Asian, Asian Americans/Canadians, and ethnic minorities as they build brands, businesses, and careers, and mental health strategies to deal with self-doubt, anxiety, and barriers. Dr. Stephanie J. Wong is a licensed clinical psychologist who blends her knowledge of mental health, culture, and business to interview diverse guests.
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David Mura, Activist & Author of Exit, Miss Saigon
09/07/2026
David Mura, Activist & Author of Exit, Miss Saigon
Dr. Stephanie J. Wong & David Mura discuss his new book, Exit, Miss Saigon, which explores the evolution of his understanding of his racial identity as a Japanese American man. Specifically, he has ended friendships with White artists due to their differing perspectives on the Miss Saigon casting. He also credits his friendships with BIPOC artists for helping him gain a different insight into racial identity. As an activist, David formed an Asian American arts organization. ========================================== Full Bio: David Mura is an award winning Japanese American author. His memoirs, poems, essays, plays and performances have won wide critical praise. The topics range from contemporary Japan to the legacy of the internment camps and the history of Japanese Americans in increasing American diversity. His work reflects deeply on the world’s current events, which at times create spaces of division and unrest. His new book. Exit Miss Saigon, though not a memoir, is deeply autobiographical. It tells how David transformed from what could be termed a “banana”—yellow on the outside, white on the inside—into an Asian American writer. This transformation involved breaking up with white artist friends over the racism in Miss Saigon; it involved building a local Asian American arts organization and connecting with Asian American artists nationwide.
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Samantha Ong, Founder of Joeydolls: Cultural Dolls Celebrating Heritage, Traditions, and Representation
08/21/2026
Samantha Ong, Founder of Joeydolls: Cultural Dolls Celebrating Heritage, Traditions, and Representation
Founder, Samantha Ong founded because she could not find dolls that reflected her daughter's culture. With attention to detail to skin tones, authentic culturally represented clothing, and names, dolls have skyrocketed in popularity. Signature dolls showcase Korean, Chinese, Cambodian, and Vietnamese culture. Dr. Stephanie J. Wong talks with Samantha about starting a toy company with no experience and how this mission-driven company has brought joy to her family and many others. The dolls will soon have books that accompany them!
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Julia Kang-Reeves, CMO of Earth Therapeutics: Carrying on Familial Entrepreneurial Spirit
08/11/2026
Julia Kang-Reeves, CMO of Earth Therapeutics: Carrying on Familial Entrepreneurial Spirit
Julia Kang-Reeves shares her story with Dr. Stephanie J. Wong of immigrating from Seoul to NY. She later spent nearly two decades in London, raising her daughter who attended all-female schools until returning to the US. From learning to navigate various cultures to becoming the CMO of wellness company, to co-lead the family business, Earth Therapeutics, Julia shares the challenges and joys of a multi-dimensional identity. Bio ========================================== Julia co-leads the 30-year-old company alongside her brother John Kang (Founder & CEO) — a brand he launched in 1993 as an offshoot of the family’s business after leaving a budding law career. With virtually no skin-care experience at the time, John began selling loofah sponges to Bed Bath & Beyond — one of the first to introduce the loofah to the U.S. market and laying the foundation for what would become a category-defining wellness brand. Together, Julia and John have continued building on the entrepreneurial spirit of their immigrant parents, who remain actively involved and still come into the office — a daily reminder that the company is rooted in family, resilience, and long-term relationships. Earth Therapeutics went on to help pioneer both the early natural body care movement and the rise of Korean spa (K-spa) beauty stateside — long before “wellness” became a marketing buzzword. A classicist-turned-writer-turned-CMO, Julia studied Classics at the University of Chicago and Columbia (where she received a Presidential Fellowship) before earning an MFA in Fiction Writing at NYU. After nearly two decades in London, she returned in 2020 to help lead her family’s brand into a new era. Having grown up alongside the original ’90s natural products movement — long before “wellness” became a buzzword — she now brings that long-view perspective to a Gen Z world shaped by burnout, trend cycles, and social media pressure. She believes America doesn’t have a beauty crisis — it has a health crisis (including mental health). And she’s leading a brand focused on function, ritual, and longevity over hype.
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Ran Ran Wang & Annie Huang on Making A Psychological Sports Thriller
07/10/2026
Ran Ran Wang & Annie Huang on Making A Psychological Sports Thriller
Writer & Director Ran Ran Wang and Producer Annie Huang join Dr. Stephanie J. Wong to discuss the importance of highlighting the stress that professional athletes face. In their Psychological Sport Thriller, "I Think About K*lling You" that premiered at the 2026 Tribeca Film Festival in NYC, rowing captain, Dani is plagued with invasive fantasies of unaliving her abusive coach. When the coach pushes the team too far, Dani is forced to choose whether or not to act on her fantasies of violence. Support female filmmakers and actresses!
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Carol Chin: Reinvention Through Fast Food
07/09/2026
Carol Chin: Reinvention Through Fast Food
Dr. Stephanie J. Wong shares a conversation with Carol Chin who is featured alongside her son in a new documentary short, Home Plate. The documentary short from Breakwater Studios in association with McDonald’s, spotlights a Chinese American family’s story of immigration, resilience, community impact, and entrepreneurship across generations. The film captures an intimate conversation between Carol and her son Andrew, during which Carol reflects on starting over (twice) - including the risks, sacrifices, and determination required to create stability and opportunity for the next generation. As Carol shares her story, Home Plate draws powerful parallels to Andrew’s transition from a former New York Yankees draft pick to a part of the family business, revealing how her perseverance becomes a blueprint as he navigates setbacks and redefines success. Carol makes us think about the value of customer service, adaptability, and hard work. Home Plate can now be streamed on McDonald's YouTube.
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The Season | Jesse Mei Li On Playing Cola in Hong Kong High Society
06/15/2026
The Season | Jesse Mei Li On Playing Cola in Hong Kong High Society
Jesse Mei Li talks about playing Cola in Hulu's The Season which explores motivations for being part of Hong Kong High Society. -How did she channel her personal experiences into Cola? -What emotions did Jesse want to portray to the audience? -How did she bond with her fellow actors? -Jessie shares her favorite spots in Hong Kong! The Season is streaming on June 17, 2026! #hulu #colorofsuccess #pressmeet #asianamerican #actors #aapi #mentalhealth #hongkong #TheSeason #viu
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The Season | Chris Pang & Justin Chien on Their Starring Roles in Hong Kong High Society
06/15/2026
The Season | Chris Pang & Justin Chien on Their Starring Roles in Hong Kong High Society
On the Color of Success Podcast, Chris Pang & Justin Chien talk about their starring roles as Andrew Fung and David Ho, respectively, in Hulu's The Season. Don't miss their dynamic friendship on-screen and in real life! -What were their character's internal struggles? -How did they channel personal experiences into the characters? -Chris talks about feelings of belonging, or lack thereof -How did this role differ from Justin's other roles doing a lot of martial arts? -Justin shares his favorite Hong Kong eats! The Season is streaming on June 17, 2026! #hulu #colorofsuccess #pressmeet #asianamerican #actors #aapi #mentalhealth #hongkong #TheSeason #viu
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Press Interview with Director Eugene Yi of The A List: 15 Stories from Asian and Pacific Diasporas
05/07/2026
Press Interview with Director Eugene Yi of The A List: 15 Stories from Asian and Pacific Diasporas
In this powerful press interview, Dr. Stephanie J. Wong and director Eugene Yi to discuss The A List: 15 Stories from Asian and Pacific Diasporas. This is the next chapter in The List Series created by Timothy Greenfield-Sanders, streaming on HBO Max on May 13. Through deeply personal conversations led by journalist Jada Yuan, the documentary explores what it truly means to be AAPI — centering themes of identity, ethnic pride, belonging, resilience, and community. Interviewees such as Sandra Oh, Tammy Duckworth, Kumail Nanjiani, Schuyler Bailar, and Bowen Yang move beyond polished soundbites into honest reckonings with culture, discrimination, family, and self-discovery. Eugene Yi shares the vision behind creating a space where vulnerability could thrive on camera, why authentic storytelling matters now more than ever, and how these intimate narratives challenge stereotypes while celebrating the richness and complexity of Asian and Pacific diasporic experiences.
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Zhengyu "Z" Huang: US-China Relations
04/27/2026
Zhengyu "Z" Huang: US-China Relations
Dr. Stephanie J. Wong and Zhengyu "Z" Huang discuss his new book, "." Zheng explained that the book was inspired by a desire to address misconceptions about China's economy and explore opportunities for mutual prosperity. He assumed the role of president of the Committee of 100, a non-profit organization founded over 30 years ago by I.M. Pei to promote Chinese-American inclusion in America and enhance U.S.-China relations, working with White House administrations during the COVID-19 pandemic to advocate for safeguarding national security while protecting civil liberties, particularly in response to rising anti-Asian hate and violence. Interview highlights: How stereotypes and data based on assumptions can impact domestic and foreign policy Contributions of Chinese Americans that have positively shaped American society Chinese American History Research Project in the context of US history Need for community engagement and informed discussion about ways to improve national security and US-China relations. This episode was not filmed on government time and is based on personal opinions. ============================================================================== Zhengyu "Z" Huang's bio: Zhengyu “Z” Huang is the former President of the Committee of 100, a nonprofit of prominent Chinese Americans dedicated to advancing constructive US-China relations and promoting Chinese American inclusion. Born in Shanghai and raised in Los Angeles, Huang holds degrees in Industrial Engineering, Economics, and Computer Science from Stanford and an MBA from Harvard. He began his career at Intel, where he led negotiations with the Chinese government on IP and 4G partnerships. He later served as a White House Fellow under President Obama, founded a financial technology firm in Shanghai, and now leads an education-focused investment firm investing in America. A bestselling author of four books, Huang’s talks have reached over 50 million people, and his work has been featured in major outlets including CNBC, CNN, and USA Today. He has lived in five countries, traveled to over 90, and remains an avid (if not expert) enthusiast of fifteen sports. ================================================================================== Share, like, and subscribe! For more mental health, entrepreneurship, and entertainment content, Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Follow us: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Regina Linke Helps Children Answer Existential Questions
04/24/2026
Regina Linke Helps Children Answer Existential Questions
Dr. Stephanie J. Wong interviews Regina Linke, author of the children's book "Little Helper," which features traditional Chinese brush painting illustrations and explores themes of community help and Eastern philosophical teachings. Regina explained how she began writing and illustrating as a second career after moving to Taiwan with her family, inspired by her son's existential questions about life and death. The book follows a young boy who learns to help his community through Taoist principles of effortless action, representing different philosophical perspectives through characters from Chinese classical scholarship. Stephanie and Regina discuss the importance of diverse perspectives in children's literature and how educators and parents can help introduce contemplative wisdom to young readers. To purchase, "" ========================================== Regina's Full Bio: Regina Linke is a bestselling, award-winning, Taiwanese American author and illustrator. Specializing in contemporary Chinese gongbi-style painting, an ancient form of brush painting that depicts narrative subjects in colorful high detail. She uses traditional ink and wash techniques in digital painting. Her enchanting illustrations deliver classic subjects through a modern lens. Known as the creator of “The Oxherd Boy” webcomic and books, Regina enjoys writing and illustrating stories that celebrate East Asian art, folklore, and philosophy in an accessible and modern way. She lives with her husband and children in Rhode Island. ========================================= Share, like, and subscribe! For more mental health, entrepreneurship, and entertainment content, Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Follow us: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Making Space with Filmmaker Christine Chang
03/28/2026
Making Space with Filmmaker Christine Chang
In this inspiring episode, filmmaker and content creator, Christine Chang opens up about her powerful journey from photography and branding to filmmaking, as well as her personal growth through healing relationships. Christine shares insights into her upcoming short film, Making Space, which explores a woman’s path to self-worth and finding her voice in a complex relationship. The film is a reflection of Christine's own story of healing, self-discovery, and the transformative power of setting boundaries. Christine discusses her personal journey of healing from her childhood experiences, how she navigated the challenges of high achievement and love, and why she had to unlearn the idea that love had to be "earned." She reflects on the deep impact of expressing her feelings, including a life-changing letter to her father that led to a powerful reconciliation. Alongside these personal stories, Christine offers valuable dating advice for high-achieving women, emphasizing the importance of self-love, patience, and focusing on core values over perfection. With her current 10-year relationship as a backdrop, Christine talks about the qualities that matter most in long-term partnerships, including integrity, kindness, and emotional growth. As the conversation shifts to practical advice, Christine and host. Dr. Stephanie J. Wong discuss how to create lasting, meaningful relationships in the midst of busy careers and high expectations. They explore how to find "workable" partnerships and build a life together with empathy, patience, and authenticity. Whether you're navigating your own personal growth or just seeking more meaningful connections, this episode offers powerful takeaways on love, healing, and the importance of finding space for yourself and others. Tune in to hear: Christine’s healing journey and personal reconciliation with her father Her transition from photography and branding to filmmaking with Making Space The importance of self-love and personal boundaries in relationships Dating advice for high-performing women: what truly matters Insights on finding a "workable" romantic partnership and building a life together Join Christine and Dr. Wong as they explore what it means to make space—for yourself, for love, and for growth. ========================================= Christine Chang's Bio: Christine Chang is a multidisciplinary storyteller whose work explores identity, independence, and self-empowerment in modern relationships. After more than two decades as a celebrity photographer, Christine authored Show Up: Finding Love for Independent Women, a candid look at boundaries, self-respect, and attachment patterns among high-achieving women. She later expanded these conversations through her where she speaks openly about agency, culture, and relational dynamics for independent women navigating both ambition and intimacy. This year, she makes her directorial debut with , premiering at the Beverly Hills Film Festival. The short examines the psychological tension between desire and self-respect — and what it means to “make space” for yourself in relationships where you’ve historically over-functioned. Beyond her creative work, Christine also leads branding and marketing for Phoenix Pharmaceuticals, co-founded by her father, Dr. Jaw-Kang Chang. She’s currently developing a feature documentary about his life as a chemist and entrepreneur, examining cultural expectation, family dynamics, and the immigrant experience through the lens of an adult daughter forging her own path. ========================================= Share, like, and subscribe! For more mental health, entrepreneurship, and entertainment content, Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Follow us: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Neha Kumar: It's Not About What You Want To Do; It's About What You Want To Do Next!
03/19/2026
Neha Kumar: It's Not About What You Want To Do; It's About What You Want To Do Next!
and Neha Kumar discuss Neha's non-traditional career journey, starting with her initial thought of majoring in pre-med but shifting towards entrepreneurship and teaching. Neha explained how teaching allows her to contribute to others' success while providing her with personal fulfillment. Neha shares: Market trends and investment insights, particularly in the start-up space Creation of Full Glass Wine, inspired by the passion of sharing community-based products Looking for opportunities during seemingly bleak times in the market Acknowledgement from her parents after appearing on her first podcast with Jay Shetty Her message to her children Empowering women through finance ================================================================================== Full bio: , co-founder and COO of Neha Kumar is the co-founder and COO of Full Glass Wine Co., a trailblazing parent company shaping the future of the wine industry through pioneering direct-to-consumer brands. As a seasoned maven with over 14 years of experience, Neha is a changemaker in the world of startups and, through Full Glass Wine Co., is on a dynamic mission to cultivate the next wave of revolutionary consumer brands. In addition to founding Full Glass Wine Co., Neha is also a lecturer at UCLA’s Anderson School of Management, where she has been teaching for over 9 years. Prior to launching her fund, Neha played a key role in Create & Cultivate’s rise to success, holding the helm as its COO & CFO until its successful majority stake acquisition by a Private Equity firm in 2021. Her prowess in deal making came from her time in banking and shone brightly throughout her career. Now, alongside leading Full Glass Wine Co., Neha utilizes her experience to teach high net worth women the ins and outs of investing and deal making with the Women’s Abundance Collective. Neha received her undergraduate degree from the esteemed University of California Los Angeles (UCLA) and her MBA from the University of Southern California (USC). ================================================================================= Share, like, and subscribe! For more mental health, entrepreneurship, and entertainment content, Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Follow us: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Director Amy Wang | Slanted: Why Would A Chinese Teen Want To Become White?
03/11/2026
Director Amy Wang | Slanted: Why Would A Chinese Teen Want To Become White?
talks with Director of Slanted, about the takeaways from the bold, provocative genre-bender that uses sharp satire and sci-fi horror to interrogate beauty standards, assimilation, and the cost of belonging. The film follows Joan Huang (), a high school outsider who idolizes the popular girls and dreams of becoming prom queen, but fears the only way to win is to look like every past queen whose portraits line the school halls. When she discovers Ethnos, a mysterious cosmetic surgery clinic that turns people White, Joan undergoes the procedure and wakes up as a blonde girl () seemingly destined for the crown. As her transformation brings popularity and power, it also exposes the disturbing personal and cultural cost of erasing one’s identity. Highlights of the interview: How Amy drew from her own experiences to produce the movie Ways she collaborated with McKenna to portray the pain and anguish of living as Joan (Chinese) The importance of empathy and challenging social norms Slanted is hands-down the #1 must-see movie of the year and premieres in theaters on March 13th! ========================================== For more mental health and entertainment content, Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Follow us: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Maitreyi Ramakrishnan & Amelie Zilber | Slanted: What Happens When You Change Your Ethnicity to Become White?
03/11/2026
Maitreyi Ramakrishnan & Amelie Zilber | Slanted: What Happens When You Change Your Ethnicity to Become White?
talks with stars of Slanted, (Never Have I Ever) and about the thought-provoking movie that uses sci-fi horror to examine beauty standards, assimilation and the cost of belonging. The film follows Joan Huang (Shirley Chen), a high school outsider who idolizes the popular girls and dreams of becoming prom queen, but fears the only way to win is to look like every past queen whose portraits line the school halls. When she discovers Ethnos, a mysterious cosmetic surgery clinic that turns people White, Joan undergoes the procedure and wakes up as a blonde girl (Mckenna Grace) seemingly destined for the crown. As her transformation brings popularity and power, it also exposes the disturbing personal and cultural cost of erasing one’s identity. Highlights of the interview: Dr. Wong asking Maitreyi about the powerful line she added to the script, asking her best friend if she thinks she's ugly, too? Amelie's methods for playing a multi-faceted character The trio laughing in agreement about a specific scene (watch and listen to find out)! Slanted is hands-down the #1 must-see movie of the year, premiering in theaters on March 13th! ========================================== For more mental health and entertainment content, Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Follow us: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Miyavi: How Being Open to New Experiences Led to Starring in the Wrecking Crew
02/13/2026
Miyavi: How Being Open to New Experiences Led to Starring in the Wrecking Crew
Miyavi is well-known for his unique finger-slapping style of playing guitar. His love for music began when a football injury led him to learn to play the guitar. In this interview, he talks about: How the mentality of being open to new things and not expecting perfection can lead to meaningful experiences Acting alongside Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista in the Wrecking Crew How he respects Jacob Batalon for playing a humorous character in the movie His friendship with legendary choreographer, Lia Kim ========================================== The Wrecking Crew is streaming now on Amazon Prime!
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The Wrecking Crew Cast Interview | Jacob Batalon, Morena Baccarin, Ángel Manuel Soto
01/27/2026
The Wrecking Crew Cast Interview | Jacob Batalon, Morena Baccarin, Ángel Manuel Soto
The Wrecking Crew cast, Jacob Batalon and Morena Baccarin, and director, Ángel Manuel Soto visit the Color of Success Podcast with Dr. Stephanie J. Wong. They talk about how Psychology is woven throughout the movie, including: -Ángel wanting to highlight generational trauma and the relationship between brothers (Jason Momoa and Dave Bautista's characters) -Morena channeling her experiences as a marginalized female to her Baddie character, Valentina -Jacob's character, Pika wanting to be perceived as a tough dude vs. living authentically The Wrecking Crew streaming on Amazon Prime on January 28, 2026! #mentalhealthmatters #podcast #wreckingcrew #jacobbatalon #morenabaccarin #psychology #hollywood #movie For more mental health and entertainment content, Subscribe to our YouTube channel: Follow us: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Screams Behind the Scenes: Actress, Victoria Wyant on Primate
01/16/2026
Screams Behind the Scenes: Actress, Victoria Wyant on Primate
Go behind the scenes of the indie horror film Primate in this interview with actress . Victoria shares how she first found her way into acting, why she typically does not watch horror movies, but how filming horror is such a uniquely exciting experience. She also talks about what sets Primate apart and why it’s a film that truly deserves to be seen on the big screen. Whether you’re a fan of horror, indie filmmaking, or actor origin stories, this conversation offers a thoughtful and fun look at the craft behind the scares. Primate is in theaters now! ========================================== For more mental health and entertainment content, Follow us: Subscribe to our YT channel: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Jon Hill on Grief Not Being Linear and Laughing Through Loss
12/22/2025
Jon Hill on Grief Not Being Linear and Laughing Through Loss
In this heartfelt and inspiring episode, Dr. Stephanie J. Wong talks with filmmaker and sports producer to explore how identity, loss, and creativity have shaped his life and work. Jon opens up about his mixed-race heritage—growing up with a Thai mother and an American father whose love story began in Thailand during the Vietnam War—and how that unique background inspired his film Above the Clouds, now available on streaming platforms. The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Jon reflects on losing his father at 25 and the long, unexpected journey of grief that followed. He shares how a chance encounter and a miraculous experience during his father’s final moments sparked a short film that eventually became a feature-length comedy, created over 13 years. Through humor and honesty, Jon offers thoughtful insights into coping with loss, acknowledging emotions, and understanding that healing is never linear. We also dive into Jon’s professional world—from covering major events like the Super Bowl and World Cup at Fox Sports to navigating independent filmmaking and advocating for Asian representation in media. The episode wraps with stories of resilience, work-life balance, a surreal Michael Jordan birthday party moment! This episode blends laughter, reflection, and inspiration, offering listeners a powerful reminder of how personal stories can become meaningful art—and how connection can emerge from even the most difficult experiences. ========================================== Jon Hill's Full Bio: Jon Hill is the writer and director of the film Above the Clouds, currently streaming on Amazon Prime. He is also a 2x Emmy Award winning sports producer that travels the world covering the largest sporting event such as the World Cup and the Super Bowl. His film talks about the struggles of losing a parent, and dealing with loss through comedy. It's based on the true events after his father passed when he was 25. Instagram: @jhill_aka_da_streaming_king ========================================== For more mental health and entertainment content, Follow us: Subscribe to our YT channel: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Podcast Episode: Navigating the Complexities of Mental Health, Journalism, and Cults
12/15/2025
Podcast Episode: Navigating the Complexities of Mental Health, Journalism, and Cults
In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Stephanie J. Wong and Ellen Huet dive deep into the intersection of mental health, culture, and the emotional toll of investigative journalism. From the personal challenges of reporting on trauma to the hidden world of wellness cults, this conversation offers a raw and insightful look at the human cost of telling difficult stories. 🔍 Highlights: Mental Health in Journalism: Stephanie and Ellen discuss how journalists cope with emotionally triggering material and the intense scrutiny that comes with high-profile stories. Ellen shares her unique perspective on maintaining empathy while still doing her job with care and responsibility. Career Shift to Tech Journalism: Ellen opens up about the progression of her career, which included Tech journalism at Bloomberg News, where she first encountered OneTaste, a controversial wellness startup promoting orgasmic meditation. The Rise and Fall of OneTaste: Ellen takes us inside her investigation into OneTaste—a company founded on the concept of orgasmic meditation, which quickly became entangled in allegations of exploitation, sexual manipulation, and financial pressure. She discusses the company’s founder, Nicole Daedone, and the deep psychological and cultural factors that led to its rise—and ultimate downfall. The Impact of Reporting on Sensitive Topics: Ellen reflects on the emotional toll of covering sensitive subjects, particularly when interviewing individuals who have been deeply affected by the practices of groups like OneTaste. Stephanie and Ellen explore the paralells between investigative reporting and trauma therapy, as well as the boundaries needed to protect journalists' mental health. Cults, Red Flags, and What to Watch Out For: The episode also delves into the psychology behind cult-like communities, discussing how people often join groups they believe will offer healing and personal growth, only to find themselves trapped in manipulative systems. Ellen shares key red flags to look out for and the importance of responsible journalism in bringing these hidden stories to light. Ellen’s New Book: The episode concludes with a sneak peek into Ellen’s upcoming book, , where she tackles the broader themes of social psychology, human behavior, and how organizations like OneTaste can influence people’s lives in profound—and often destructive—ways. Whether you're a journalism enthusiast, a psychology aficionado, or just curious about the hidden world of wellness culture, this episode will leave you with plenty to think about. 👉 Tune in now for an unforgettable conversation that blends mental health, investigative journalism, and human behavior. You won’t want to miss this! ============================================================= Ellen's Full bio: Ellen Huet originally broke the story of OneTaste for Bloomberg in 2018, and her reporting helped sparked the FBI investigation that led to founder Nicole Daedone’s 2025 conviction. In her new book (MCD x FSG) she explores how something that looked like liberation – female orgasm at the center of a modern wellness startup – twisted into manipulation, coercion, and abuse. Ellen has also recently been on a Netflix documentary about OneTaste and in ." Follow to learn more about her work! ============================================================= For more mental health and entertainment content, Follow us: Subscribe to our YT channel: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Norman Chen, CEO of The Asian American Foundation (TAAF): Breaking Barriers: Empowering Asian+ American Youth Through Mental Health & Leadership
12/03/2025
Norman Chen, CEO of The Asian American Foundation (TAAF): Breaking Barriers: Empowering Asian+ American Youth Through Mental Health & Leadership
Join Dr. Stephanie J. Wong and Norman Chen, CEO of The Asian American Foundation (TAAF), as they dive deep into the pressing issues facing Asian + American communities today, with a special focus on mental health, youth leadership, and breaking stereotypes. This episode explores the intersection of culture, identity, and mental health, while offering actionable insights on overcoming societal challenges. In this episode, you'll hear about: Addressing Asian+ Americans' Mental Health TAAF's new program: Thriving Asian Leadership Accelerator, equipping Asian+ American youth with the skills needed to thrive beyond academic achievement Combatting Stereotypes and Building Belonging Asian+ American Philanthropy and Representation Collaborations to Expand Mental Health Resources & Support, including the the, sparking a national conversation about belonging, visibility, and community safety, and TAAF’s study, which found that nearly 1 in 2 Asian American Pacific Islander (AAPI) youth screen positive for moderate depression, and that stigma and silence prevent many from seeking help. This reflects broader cultural dynamics (around identity, family pressure, and belonging) that can affect Asian American Native Hawaiian Pacific Islanders (AANHPIs) of all ages. ========================================== Full bio: is the Chief Executive Officer of TAAF and brings a thirty-year career in entrepreneurship, healthcare and community leadership in the United States and Asia. Norman is passionate about building organizations in both the nonprofit and private sectors that positively impact society. Prior to his appointment at TAAF, Norman co-founded the nonprofit Leading Asian Americans to Unite for Change (LAAUNCH) and helped to create a landmark study, The STAATUS Index, of American attitudes towards Asian Americans. As a healthcare entrepreneur, Norman was the founder and CEO of Asia Renal Care, a network of specialty medical centers in six countries, and co-founder of DeltaHealth Hospital, a world-class hospital in partnership with Columbia Heartsource. As a venture capitalist, Norman led successful life sciences investments at Fidelity Asia Ventures (now Eight Roads) and 6 Dimensions Capital. Norman grew up on the East Coast and currently lives in the Bay Area. He has been a board or advisory council member at The Nature Conservancy (CA), Children’s Medical Foundation (HK), SF Marine Science Institute, and Positive Coaching Alliance. He holds a B.S. degree from MIT and an MBA from the Stanford Graduate School of Business. ========================================== For more mental health and entertainment content, Follow us: Subscribe to our YT channel: To purchase Dr. Wong's book:
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Bridging Cultures and Empowering Women: How Yue-Sai Kan Became The Most Famous Woman in China
10/14/2025
Bridging Cultures and Empowering Women: How Yue-Sai Kan Became The Most Famous Woman in China
In this episode, Dr. Stephanie J. Wong sits down with the trailblazing Yue-Sai Kan, a pioneer in cultural exchange through television, cosmetics, and business. Yue-Sai takes us through her groundbreaking work, producing the TV show Looking East in the late 70s and early 80s, which aimed to foster cultural understanding between the East and West. She opens up about the challenges she faced in both media and business, including navigating China’s limited media landscape, and the hurdles of producing television content across two cultures. Yue-Sai also shares her personal journey of learning Mandarin and the complexities of dealing with racism and media representation in the U.S. She reflects on her experience empowering women in China through her cosmetics business, where she introduced makeup to a market that had little exposure to it, and discusses her mission to help women enhance their confidence and individuality. Beyond her fame, Yue-Sai explains how she has used her platform for positive change, from promoting cultural understanding to spearheading One World Foundation, which focuses on global cross-cultural initiatives. Yue-Sai’s upcoming book, The Most Famous Woman in China launches on October 21st on Amazon. ==================================== Full bio: Before Barbie diversified and before TikTok collapsed borders, Yue-Sai was already rewriting what was possible for women in China and beyond. An Emmy Award–winning TV host, bestselling author, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, she built a multi-billion-dollar empire while modernizing the image of Chinese women and bridging East–West culture through media and beauty. Her memoir, The Most Famous Woman in China (out October 21), offers an unfiltered look at the highs and obstacles of being a cultural disruptor and the challenges she faced as a woman of color carving space in multiple industries. It includes never-before-seen archives, photos, and QR-linked video interviews. All proceeds benefit the Yue-Sai Kan One World Foundation, which supports global citizenship and education. ==================================== For more mental health and entertainment content, Follow us: Subscribe to our YT channel: To purchase Dr. Wong's book: https://www.amazon.com/Cancel-Filter-Realities-Psychologist-Podcaster/dp/1960299239/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ESHqItd-7JIevntWhPXNHw.D6QfeRDu2mzbsQQ9vUM-uSzxKxxYNNsNxjw2DOzSrfI&qid=1705532812&sr=8-1
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How Do You Heal from Narcisstic Abuse From Parents?
10/09/2025
How Do You Heal from Narcisstic Abuse From Parents?
Healing from Narcissistic Trauma as an Immigrant In this heartfelt episode, Agatha Peters shares her journey of overcoming narcissistic abuse within a collectivist, immigrant family. She unpacks the emotional toll of growing up with a narcissistic parent, how culture shapes our understanding of parenting, and her path to healing. With insights on setting boundaries, journaling, and supporting others, this conversation offers hope and clarity for anyone navigating toxic family dynamics. ============================================================ Full bio Agatha Peters is a Nigerian-American psychotherapist, founder of Beautiful Sunshine Therapy, and the author of 📚 . She is dedicated to helping adult children of narcissistic parents, especially those from collectivist cultures, where family loyalty often overshadows individual well-being. Having experienced the healing power of therapy herself, she is passionate about helping others discover the same transformation and offers guidance on embracing one’s identity while respecting cultural ties. To connect with Agatha: Website: https://beautifulsunshinetherapy.com LinkedIn: Facebook: Instagram: =========================================================== For more mental health and entertainment content, Follow us: Subscribe to our YT channel: To purchase Dr. Wong's book: https://www.amazon.com/Cancel-Filter-Realities-Psychologist-Podcaster/dp/1960299239/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ESHqItd-7JIevntWhPXNHw.D6QfeRDu2mzbsQQ9vUM-uSzxKxxYNNsNxjw2DOzSrfI&qid=1705532812&sr=8-1
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Entrepreneurial and Mental Health Support for Filipino Business Owners From Coast-to-Coast
08/27/2025
Entrepreneurial and Mental Health Support for Filipino Business Owners From Coast-to-Coast
Today, I'm joined by Matthew Veland, President of the Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Metro DC and Dyanna Volek, proud Filipina American and native San Franciscan who during the day, works in government affairs and is a champion of the Filipino community. We discuss: Biggest challenges that Filipino business owners face Need to address mental health and business owners' relationship to money Entrepreneurial and mental health resources for business owners Ways we can support Filipino-owned businesses on both coasts ========================================= Matthew Veland is a highly respected financial planner with Prudential Financial in the Washington D.C. area, distinguished by his deep commitment to empowering Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) business owners and medical professionals. Beyond his professional expertise in financial planning, Matt is a leading advocate for the local Asian American business community, with a particular focus on the significant economic contributions of these enterprises. As the current President of the , Matthew spearheads an organization dedicated to uplifting and empowering over 200 entrepreneurs and business owners across the DMV region. Under his leadership, the Chamber actively promotes economic development, fosters networking opportunities, and amplifies the voices of Filipino American businesses. Further demonstrating his dedication to community development, Matthew is also a co-founder and Treasurer of FilExcellence, a non-profit committed to fostering personal empowerment and professional development within the Filipino diaspora. IG: mgveland Dyanna Volek is a proud Filipina American and native San Franciscan who blends civic service with cultural passion. By day, she navigates government affairs with over a decade of experience in public affairs—but her heart beats for community, culture, and connection. Outside the office, Dyanna is a champion of holistic wellness and vibrant living, spotlighting the local businesses that are the lifeblood of cities. IG: dyannaluna ================================================= For more mental health and entertainment content, Follow us: Subscribe to our YT channel: To purchase Dr. Wong's book: https://www.amazon.com/Cancel-Filter-Realities-Psychologist-Podcaster/dp/1960299239/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ESHqItd-7JIevntWhPXNHw.D6QfeRDu2mzbsQQ9vUM-uSzxKxxYNNsNxjw2DOzSrfI&qid=1705532812&sr=8-1
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Life After Death: How Recovering from a Skull Fracture Led to a Girls Education Initiative
08/06/2025
Life After Death: How Recovering from a Skull Fracture Led to a Girls Education Initiative
Today, we welcome Elizabeth Akua-Nyarko Patterson to the show. Following an accident and a skull fracture, she advanced her education. She is the founder and executive director of the Girls education initiative of Ghana (GEIG), providing academic and financial support for girls including applicants with special needs, so they may access higher education, and professional opportunities. We discuss: De-stigmatizing special needs and empowering individuals with disabilities to lead meaningful and productive lives The importance of family in recovering from an accident The value of girls having role models Her new memoir, My Life After Death () To learn more and support GEIG: ========================================== For more mental health and entertainment content, Follow us: Subscribe to our YT channel: To purchase Dr. Wong's book: https://www.amazon.com/Cancel-Filter-Realities-Psychologist-Podcaster/dp/1960299239/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ESHqItd-7JIevntWhPXNHw.D6QfeRDu2mzbsQQ9vUM-uSzxKxxYNNsNxjw2DOzSrfI&qid=1705532812&sr=8-1
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Jackie Dallas: From Medicine to Acting in Stranger Things & The Hunting Wives
07/19/2025
Jackie Dallas: From Medicine to Acting in Stranger Things & The Hunting Wives
Jackie Dallas followed her passion, which led to her break-out role in Season 1 of "Stranger Things," as 'Jen,' Mr. Clarke's girlfriend, Jen Woo. In the Netflix series, The Hunting Wives, starring Dermot Mulroney, Malin Akerman, and Brittany Snow, she plays Jia-Yi. In this episode, we dive into: Career Transition from Medicine to Acting Her break-out role in Stranger Things and how it jump started her acting career How her surgical experience gives her perspective when facing rejection in Hollywood Ongoing advocacy for women's health, specifically education about urological issues Her role in Hunting Wives, streaming on Netflix! ============================================================= Full bio: Jackie Dallas plays ‘Jia-Yi’ in the upcoming Netflix series “The Hunting Wives,” (July 21, 2025) starring Dermot Mulroney, Malin Akerman, and Brittany Snow. Based on the book of the same name by May Cobb, the series follows Sophie O'Neil, who relocates to deep East Texas and quickly falls under the spell of glamorous socialite Margo, leading to a world of obsession, seduction, and murder. Jackie plays ‘Jia-Yi,’ a sharp and strategic political advisor and campaign manager to Mulroney’s character. You may recognize Dallas from her breakout role in Netflix’s “Stranger Things” as ‘Jen,’ Mr. Clarke’s girlfriend ‘Jen Woo’ from season 1. Her film work includes action thrillers alongside Jean-Claude Van Damme, Morgan Freeman, Frank Grillo, and Juliette Binoche. Outside of acting, Jackie remains connected to her medical background as a philanthropic patient advocate for women’s health. She has published 20 clinical research papers focused on surgical outcomes, including disparities in race and age. Connect with Jackie on Instagram: ============================================================= For more mental health and entertainment content, Follow us: Subscribe to our YT channel: To purchase Dr. Wong's book: https://www.amazon.com/Cancel-Filter-Realities-Psychologist-Podcaster/dp/1960299239/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&dib_tag=se&dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.ESHqItd-7JIevntWhPXNHw.D6QfeRDu2mzbsQQ9vUM-uSzxKxxYNNsNxjw2DOzSrfI&qid=1705532812&sr=8-1
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How Do We Maintain Our Humanity While Using AI for Marketing, Branding, Therapy, & Education?
07/16/2025
How Do We Maintain Our Humanity While Using AI for Marketing, Branding, Therapy, & Education?
Hannah Ryu is a storyteller, AI Strategist, and the co-founder of Oak Theory, a creative technology studio specializing in UX/UI, web, application design, and development. We explore: Co-founding a creative technology studio, aiming to address the lack of diversity in UX design firms. Confronting negative self-talk/narratives when building a business The role of perfectionism in Korean culture The exciting utility of AI in creating tailored educational information for children, increasing accessibility to education Use of AI for self-reflection and as a starting point to engage in therapy How to maintain being human through curiosity, accepting that we make mistakes, and unconditional love ========================================== Hannah's full bio: Hannah is a storyteller, AI Strategist, and the co-founder of Oak Theory, a creative technology studio specializing in UX/UI, web, application design, and development. With over a decade of experience across branding, UX/UI, and digital strategy, she partners with organizations navigating transformation, helping them turn complexity into clear, scalable experiences. As a first-generation Korean American and mother of two, Hannah brings a layered lens to leadership, blending creative instinct, cultural awareness, and operational know-how, especially during times of growth, change, or reinvention. Her expertise has been trusted by industry leaders and universities like Google, Optum, Columbia University, and Vanderbilt University. She’s been featured at the Women in Tech Global Conference, on the top 0.5% business podcast The UpFlip Podcast, and in outlets such as Forbes, Success Magazine, and Entrepreneur. The company's websites are and . Under the Oak is a media company that seeks to discuss how to be more human. Socials:
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Joe Daru: How Does Open-Mindedness Help in Professional Baseball & Acting?
04/16/2025
Joe Daru: How Does Open-Mindedness Help in Professional Baseball & Acting?
Joe Daru is no stranger to thriving in new environments. From living in various countries to playing professional baseball, and now acting and directing, Joe shares how he continues to navigate his life and career. He highlights: How he developed skills through baseball, such as competitiveness, motivation, and work ethic, which he now applies to his career in Entertainment. The importance of open-mindedness and flexibility, particularly when living in various countries His fight scene with QUEEN, Michelle Yeoh in The Brothers Sun His dream project (spoiler alert: It's related to baseball) His recurring role in Peacock's crime drama, Long Bright River, opposite Amanda Seyfried. ==========================================Full bio: Joe Daru is a Thai/Chinese-American actor born in Thailand. As the son of a diplomat, he has lived in Barbados, Laos, Hawaii, Florida, and Washington D.C. After graduating from IMG Sports Academy in Florida, he played college baseball & also played internationally post-grad before moving to Los Angeles in 2017. From there he went on to guest star on The Rookie (ABC), East New York (CBS), Legacies (CW), and Hydra (Apple), and recur on The Brothers Sun (Netflix), All American Homecoming (CW), and The L Word: Generation Q (Showtime). Joe is currently anticipating the release of his latest Recurring Guest Star role in the new Sony crime series Long Bright River (Peacock) alongside Amanda Seyfried. In his free time, Joe is an avid athlete and has played Division-1 baseball for four years for New York Tech. After graduating he went on to play in the Southeast Asian Games, World Baseball Classic Qualifiers and the Asian Games for the Thailand National Team. In addition to sports, Joe also has a passion for directing and has won multiple awards - most recently an honorable mention in the AGBO 48 Hour Film Festival for his short film “A New Leash on Life”. Joe is based in Los Angeles and is represented by Entertainment Lab (Management). IG: @joedaru
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Expressing Complex Emotions in Short Film, Last Call with Producer, Winnie Cheung & Actress, Celia Au
03/12/2025
Expressing Complex Emotions in Short Film, Last Call with Producer, Winnie Cheung & Actress, Celia Au
We are fortunate to have Producer, Winnie Cheung and actress, Celia Au on the show to discuss their short film, Last Call which premiered at the 2025 SXSW Midnight Short Program. This short fantasy thriller takes you on the psychological journey of a traumatized motorcyclist who daydreams about a sultry serpent woman and is haunted by her enchanting voice. Winnie’s credits include being a co-producer on the SXSW Audience Award Winner “Woodlands Dark and Days Bewitched: A History of Folk Horror” in 2021, and has won several awards at Sundance and more. Inspired by David Cronenberg’s body horror, American erotic thrillers, and Eastern fantasy films - LAST CALL reflects Winnie’s diasporic identity - a dreamlike blend of the ancestral East, and the rebellious West. Celia Au who previously starred in Wu Assassins and Lodge 49, brings Winnie’s vision to life in this story’s discovery of profound revelation. We talk about: Integrating and displaying complex emotions in film Ways to deal with internal conflicts How Breath work, mental visualization, and Active Listening are key to facilitating a productive and safe work environment Storytelling as a powerful way to positively change the world. SOCIALS @
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Exist in Spaces As An Act of Protest--A Conversation with Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa
02/09/2025
Exist in Spaces As An Act of Protest--A Conversation with Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa
In Season 7's premiere, Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa and Dr. Stephanie J. Wong engage in an important conversation addressing: Dr. Oriuwa's experience being the only Black student in her medical class at University of Toronto Racial trauma in psychiatry to treat patients Challenges of connecting with friends and self-care in professional and personal settings Being honored with a Barbie made in her likeness and the impact this has on children feeling seen Strategies to navigate these challenging socio-political times in society. To learn more about Dr. Oriuwa's work: Bio: One of Time magazine’s 2021 Next Generation Leaders and named on Maclean’s Power 50 List in 2022, Dr. Chika Stacy Oriuwa is a medical trailblazer spearheading change in health care and beyond. Currently a resident doctor in psychiatry at the University of Toronto, Dr. Oriuwa is a graduate of the school’s Temerty Faculty of Medicine and has served a variety of board positions. Dr. Oriuwa was also honoured in Mattel’s #ThankYouHeroes campaign with a one-of-a-kind Barbie doll made in her image to commemorate her contributions as a frontline health care worker. Recently, Dr. Oriuwa established the Dr. Chika Oriuwa Award for the Advancement of Black Health at Temerty Medicine, which will be awarded annually to a graduating medical student. She recently published her memoir, Unlike the Rest and you can purchase it now wherever books are sold!
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Star of CBS’ S.W.A.T., David Lim: Journey from Loan Officer to Model/Actor & How He Built Resilience in Hollywood
12/02/2024
Star of CBS’ S.W.A.T., David Lim: Journey from Loan Officer to Model/Actor & How He Built Resilience in Hollywood
I sat down with fellow Bay Area native, David Lim, one of the stars S.W.A.T. on CBS. He shares his personal experiences, career journey, and challenges he faced in the mortgage industry, acting, and modeling. We discussed the importance of resilience, self-belief, and adaptability in overcoming obstacles and achieving success in various fields. David shares the story of how he met his wife, and how they co-founded a jewelry company following a burglary of their home, losing sentimental pieces. Bonus: My mom gets to ask her fan questions! S.W.A.T is on CBS every Friday at 8:00 pm and moving to 10:00 pm in the New Year To purchase Maya David jewelry: Follow David on Instagram @davidbradleylim ========================================== Full bio: David Lim is an Asian American actor, raised in San Ramon, California, and received a degree in Electrical Engineering from the University of California San Diego. He decided he wanted to do something different, signed a contract with Ford Models and moved to Los Angeles to pursue modeling and acting. He now stars as a series regular in the CBS drama S.W.A.T.
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