Episode 15-The Power Of History, Media and Representation-Asian Pacific American Heritage Month Special

“There’s power in telling your story, knowing your story, and in seeing your story reflected. That’s why representation matters.” – Angela Chee

As we become more diverse and more divided, how can we move forward and thrive together?

In honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month, I’ve been watching a documentary series on PBS called “Asian Americans”. It’s a groundbreaking 5-part series you can watch it online through the beginning of June.

One of the people featured in this series is my guest today, Nancy Wang Yuen. Author of Reel Inequality: Hollywood Actors and Racism, Nancy is a pop culture expert and sociologist. She has appeared on PBS, BBC World TV, Dr. Phil, Teen Vogue, New York Times, and Los Angeles Times, among others.

You can Subscribe and Listen to the Podcast on Apple Podcasts. And be sure to leave me a Rating and Review!

“Sharing all of the trials, the barriers, and the obstacles, and what we had to do to overcome – I think all that makes it that young people think that they can do it.” – Nancy Wang Yuen

On this show, Nancy and I talk about how knowing our history and the power of stories can shape our future. We talk about the importance of media, and how representation impacts our identities and society as a whole.

In the last few months, there’s also been a rise in anti-Asian racism and incidents so it’s more important than ever to create a climate of unity to see our similarities and celebrate our differences. And it starts with us.

“I think it is never too young to talk about things like racism and sexism.” – Nancy Wang Yuen

Show Notes:

Why representation in media is important
How Asian-Americans have been represented on TV
The importance of knowing our history
How media plays a role in how we live
How are we going to move forward together?
How Nancy perceives herself as she breaks barriers
The importance of calling ourselves out around our prejudices

“I try not to rely too much on the approval of others.” – Nancy Wang Yuen

3 Pieces of Advice or Action Steps:

Be Humble
Find Allies and Take Care of Yourself
Dream Big

“I don’t take myself too seriously, and yet I have goals that I want to achieve that I genuinely enjoy.” – Nancy Wang Yuen

Brand and Resource Mentions:

Connect with Nancy Wang Yuen:

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | Nancy Wang Yuen

Thanks for being a part of this bold and powerful conversation on The Power of The Only!

Whether you feel like the only one in your company, industry or community or the only woman in the room, we’re here to support you in stepping up, speaking up through power, presence and representation and to make an impact in your personal and professional life.