Do you know Asians are at higher risk for kidney disease? At the age of 17, Sabrina Lu Qiao was diagnosed with a rare, autoimmune kidney disorder called Minimal Change Disease (MCD), which affects the filtering capacity of the kidneys and can increase one’s risk of developing Nephrotic Syndrome.* 

In this episode, Sabrina recounts how common teenage angst was exacerbated by the side effects of steroid treatment, including water weight gain, body dysmorphia, and emotional distress. She tapped into the healing power of personal narrative and testimony that led her to advocate and share her story with fellow patients and communities. As a passionate writer and journalist, Sabrina draws on her lived experience to inform and empower others along their health journeys. She also reflects on the ways her cultural identity continues to inform her personal growth and resilience. 

* Source: https://nephcure.org/livingwithkidneydisease/ns-and-other-glomerular-diseases/understanding-minimal-change-disease/ (Dec 2022)

MORE ABOUT SABRINA:

Sabrina Lu Qiao is an alumna of the University of Pennsylvania, where she studied English with a concentration in creative writing and a minor in journalism. 

She is currently pursuing an MFA in nonfiction writing at Columbia University, where she also teaches creative nonfiction writing. Her reporting often focuses on subcultures, while her personal writing explores patient identity within Chinese culture and feminism within East Asian culture. She is at work on a manuscript about the Chinese Cultural Revolution and is an avid proponent of the Manhattan ferry system.

RESOURCES:

Nephcure - https://nephcure.org/connect/ (a supportive community of patients, their loved ones, doctors, researchers and other medical professionals bound by a common goal: discovering better treatments and a cure for rare, kidney diseases caused by Nephrotic Syndrome)
Inspire – https://www.inspire.com (a resource hub with information on specific diseases as well as access to experts and patient stories for anyone seeking to learn more)
National Kidney Foundation - https://www.kidney.org/treatment-support

SABRINA’S SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:

Website - https://sabrinaluqiao.com
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/sabqiao/

*DISCLAIMER*
The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for individualized health care, professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Episode #28: The Healing Power of Personal Narrative & Kidney Health Advocacy

A cancer survivor’s journey extends well beyond the period of medical treatment. In this episode, we talk to our special guest, Nayonika Chatterjee, who was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s lymphoma at the age of 14. She received treatment while living with her family in India and has been in remission for over a decade. Hodgkin’s lymphoma is among the most common types of cancers that affect teens and their lymphatic systems.

Nayonika reflects on her own healing as a lifelong process of adaptation, struggle, and transition, but a journey that continues to lead her to greater self-awareness, resilience, and hope. She recognizes healing as a non-linear path, where survivors can choose how they share their personal stories.

Some people may speak openly about their cancer journeys as health advocates, while others may prefer to stand in solidarity with fellow survivors or seek counseling and mental health resources for support. 

As a graduate student at Brandeis University, Nayonika plans to research how individuals of South Asian descent uniquely experience their cancer journeys and engage in survivor discourse. Her goal is to elevate people’s voices to show the humanity behind their lived experiences and to explore how culture and language intersect and influence their well-being. If you are interested in learning more about Nayonika’s research, you can email her at nchatterjee@brandeis.edu. 

Resource Links:
Nayonika’s Social Media
- Instagram: chatterjeenayonika   (https://www.instagram.com/chatterjeenayonika/)
- Facebook: Nayonika Chatterjee (https://www.facebook.com/nayonika.chatterjee)

For Reference:  https://www.cancer.org/cancer/hodgkin-lymphoma.html

More About Nayonika Chatterjee
Nayonika Chatterjee is an international student from India pursuing a MA in Anthropology at Brandeis University. Her experience with Hodgkin’s lymphoma inspires her research that lies at the intersection of medicine and anthropology, specifically narratives of individuals struck by cancer. Additionally, she is interested in exploring how South Asian socio-cultural and linguistic practices affect the health and well-being of individuals within this community. Outside of academia, she operates as a caffeine enthusiast and finds joy in evocative Japanese animations and graphic novels.

*Disclaimer 
The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for individualized health care, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only. 

** If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health, resources are available through the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (mass.gov) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Massachusetts (namimass.org).

Episode #27: Healing Work: Defining Survivorship after Hodgkin’s Lymphoma

May recognizes both Asian Pacific American Heritage Month and National Mental Health Awareness Month. As we navigate our way through COVID, each of us faces challenges that impact our mental health. Many have experienced personal loss and changes at work and in our caregiving responsibilities. The need for community support and healing grows every day.

In this podcast episode, Dr. Pata Suyemoto returns as our special guest (https://soundcloud.com/asianwomenforhealth/pathways-forward-awareness-and-activism-mental-health).  Pata has long been a champion of health and racial equity as a feminist scholar, writer, educator, and mental health activist. 

As the Training/Program Director for the National Asian American Pacific Islander Mental Health Association (NAAPIMHA) and the Director of the National Asian American Pacific Islander Empowerment Network (NAAPIEN), Pata is reshaping the conversation around mental wellness by engaging more people with lived experiences to share their stories.

Pata has spoken about being a suicide attempt survivor and her struggles with chronic depression and PTSD.  She believes there is tremendous value in claiming and sharing one’s lived experiences, knowledge, and perspectives to benefit one another and to help inform health practice and policy. 

Learn more about these efforts and upcoming events. Connect and get involved!

Upcoming Events:
*May 18-19, 2022*
21st Annual MA Suicide Prevention Conference
https://web.cvent.com/event/765b74af-2164-4644-a87a-247b7dcf9e89/summary

July 30, 2022
13th Annual Asian American Mental Health Forum
Building Resilience: Healing Trauma Across Generations
https://www.asianwomenforhealth.org/asian-american-mental-health-forum.html

Resource Links:
- NAAPIMHA 
https://www.naapimha.org
- NAAPIEN Network / Email: pata@naapimha.org
- Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention Toolkit Resource
https://masspreventssuicide.org/widening-the-lens-exploring-the-role-of-social-justice-and-racial-equity-in-suicide-prevention
- Greater Boston Regional Suicide Prevention
https://www.greaterbostonpreventssuicide.org/
- Suicide Lifeline
1-800-273-8255

More About Dr. Pata Suyemoto
Pata Suyemoto is the Co-Chair for the Greater Boston Regional Suicide Prevention Coalition and the Founder and Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Coalition for Suicide Prevention (MCSP) Alliance for Equity. 
She is also a master trainer for NAAPIMHA’s Achieving Whole Health Program, a curriculum developer, and a diversity trainer. She earned her PhD from the University of Pennsylvania and did her research on anti-racist education and issues of race and racism. 

Pata is one of the authors of Widening the Lens: Exploring the Role of Social Justice in Suicide Prevention – A Racial Equity Toolkit. She is a Co-Founder of The Breaking Silences Project, which is an artistic endeavor that educates about the high rates of depression and suicide among Asian American young women. Pata is also a member of several boards and com

Episode #26: Raising the Voices of Lived Experience

ATTENTION! This episode delves into some difficult subjects including self-harm, trauma, and racism. If these are sensitive subjects for you, please keep that in mind before you listen.

Sandra Myounga Kim, LMHC, is a mental health clinician and founder of a telehealth-based, wellness & life coaching service called Talk Therapy Tuebingen, which supports the mental health and well-being of international students and professionals. Sandra’s firsthand experience as an ex-pat and her background in education, ministry, the arts, and fitness, have informed her understanding and compassion for people’s vulnerabilities and health struggles. In practice and in spirit, Sandra is the consummate advocate of healthy living and a whole health approach to wellness.

In this episode, we discuss the weight of imposter syndrome, suicide loss, and the non-linear path to healing. Be sure to check out Sandra’s list of links and resources! 

SANDRA’S LIST OF LINKS & RESOURCES
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talktherapytubingen/
- Website: https://www.talktherapytuebingen.de/

Mental and Physical Health Strategies (Coping with COVID)
Videos by Sandra M. Kim:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6vvW2lNSgk0&t=8s
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zcw37x1hDDw

Internet Resources:
- Breathing Techniques to Calm Self
https://www.verywellmind.com/abdominal-breathing-2584115
- Imposter Syndrome
https://time.com/5312483/how-to-deal-with-impostor-syndrome/
https://www.nicabm.com/program/impostor-syndrome/?itl=store
- On Confidence
https://www.theschooloflife.com/article/on-confidence/

3 YouTube Recommendations for Mental Health:
- Kati Morton
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCzBYOHyEEzlkRdDOSobbpvw
- Dr. Tracey Marks
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCL2QpphEeZFYwk6-WXD6hpA
- School of Life
https://www.youtube.com/hashtag/theschooloflife

Resources to Find A Mental Health Provider:
https://www.psychologytoday.com/us
BetterHelp, TalkSpace

Apps to Help Manage Mental Health Symptoms:
Calm, Headspace, Talkspace, Happify 

More About Sandra Kim:
Sandra M. Kim is a mental health clinician, fitness instructor, education consultant, former youth pastor, art teacher and higher ed administrator. She hails from sunny, southern California but has lived in 6 different countries and 4 different states (MA, NY, VA, CA), which has influenced her perspectives of the world and people. Having worked/lived in 9 countries around the world, including towns in Germany, Kenya, China, Korea, and the US, she is also well-versed in the triumphs and challenges of feeling like a foreigner, even in her own country.  Her hope is to bring an overall health and wellness mindset to all, merging the mental, physical, spiritual, emotional, relational, and professional/academic.  

*Disclaimer 
The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for individualized health care, professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. All content in this podcast is for gene

Podcast Episode #25: Telehealth Talk: Healing in A Virtual World

ATTENTION: This episode delves into some difficult subjects including self-harm, trauma, and racism. If these are sensitive subjects for you, please keep that in mind before you listen.

Amy Manion is a Boston-born, Chinese American, singer/songwriter and spoken word artist. Her journey is one that truly embodies resilience. As a suicide attempt survivor, Amy uses performance art to share her authentic voice and raw struggles with mental health, racism, and trauma. In this episode, we feature two powerful pieces of her spoken word: “Found” and “Ode to Creation”.  Amy channels her creative expression to be an advocate for change toward greater justice and healing. Words have their own energy, so enjoy this opportunity to listen and embrace the power of the spoken word and its ability to heal and inspire humanity. 

Resource Links:

Amy Manion’s Pages
- https://amyelizabethmanion.wordpress.com/
            Check out “You Call Me Corona” (a spoken word piece for the MA Coalition
            For Suicide Prevention - https://masspreventssuicide.org/)
- www.amymanion.com
- Project Harmonious - https://www.facebook.com/harmoniousproject/
- Tunefoolery Music - https://www.tunefoolery.org/


More About Amy Manion:
As an Asian American woman and suicide attempt survivor, Amy has struggled with feelings of worthlessness stemming from disempowerment. Interconnected with that is trauma related to sexuality, religion, and racism. Community and creativity provide her strength in knowing that there is nothing wrong with her. Sensitivity to the injustices all around her that her people and others generationally have experienced until this day, the desire for justice, and knowing that God will make all things new is what keeps her in the fight. She believes that by sharing our stories, we all heal.

*Disclaimer 
The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for individualized health care, professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Photo Credit: Zhiyan Xu of OwlsomePhoto.com

Episode #24:  An Ode to Healing: The Power of Creative Expression

Compassion is at the heart of Perrie Mo’s call to service. She is currently a Nursing Care Coordinator at Good Shepherd Community Hospice and the Program Coordinator of their Asian Hospice Program. On weekends, Perrie works as a multilingual therapist at Elephant In The Room Counseling, a group practice of Asian American clinical social workers, who provide behavioral health services to individuals from underserved communities.

Perrie has long dedicated her work to empowering clients along their health journeys and improving their access to culturally informed care. She uses her language and clinical expertise to address the cultural and linguistic barriers that impact the experiences of Asian/Asian American patients.

In this episode, Perrie shares insights on her passionate pursuits, from her epiphanies on hospice and palliative care to her views on the benefits of telemental health. You will appreciate how her work in trauma, grief, and mental health has prepared her to respond to urgent health needs during the pandemic.

Resources:
- https://www.elephantroomcounseling.com/about-us
- https://www.elephantroomcounseling.com/resources/asian-specific-resources
- https://gscommunitycare.org/Asian-Hospice-Program

More info about Perrie Mo
https://www.elephantroomcounseling.com/about-us/meet-our-team/perrie-mo-licsw
Perrie Mo, RN, LICSW, APHSW-C, is the Program Coordinator for the Asian Hospice Program at Good Shepherd Community Hospice, specializing in providing culturally sensitive care to Asian patients. She is fluent in Cantonese, Mandarin, and Thai. In her current role, Perrie works as a Nursing Care Coordinator and manages Asian language speaking patients who are under hospice care. She utilizes specialized nursing skills and agency resources related to end-of-life care and manages discomfort and symptom relief.  At Elephant In The Room Counseling, Perrie takes a holistic approach to behavioral health for Asians/Asian Americans who experience cultural and generational trauma.

Perrie grew up in Hong Kong with both East and Southeast Asian parents. She is a new mother, so time with her family and 16-month-old daughter bring her a world of joy.

*Disclaimer 
The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for individualized health care, professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Episode #23: Reflections on Compassionate Care

Life is a journey and our path to self-discovery is rarely straight. We learn from our lived experiences, setbacks, and unexpected detours. In this episode, we speak to Alessandra (Dréa) Pañares, a passionate community organizer, performing artist, and storyteller. Her innate curiosity and education in Psychology, History, and Women’s & Gender Studies have led her on a personal quest to explore the myriad of influences that have shaped her identity and understanding of her Filipina heritage. Her discoveries have informed her own health journey and impacted her community advocacy and creative pursuits in meaningful ways. Dréa’s story will inspire you to take a deeper dive into your own family history, where you can uncover and share those hidden gems that make each of us beautifully unique and interconnected. 

Resource Links:
- https://linktr.ee/dreapanares
- “Portrait of the World As It Could Be” at American Repertory Theatre (ART) 
https://youtu.be/8IYhne1Nhyo 

More About Alessandra Panares:
Alessandra “Drea” Panares (she/her) is a queer Filipina community organizer and storyteller based on Pawtucket and Massachusetts land (Boston.) She attended Creighton University, earning degrees in Psychology and History with a minor in Women's & Gender Studies. Currently, she serves as a member of the City of Boston's SPARK Council. She volunteers with local public health and mutual aid organizations and spends her spare time on freelance creative projects. Dedicated to equity and inclusion work, Alessandra is particularly passionate about racial justice, LGBTQIA+ activism, and disability (esp mental health) advocacy. 

Producer’s Note: This episode was previously recorded on 12/9/21.

*Disclaimer 
The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for individualized mental health care, professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only. 

** If you or a loved one are struggling with mental health, check out the resources available through the Massachusetts Department of Mental Health (mass.gov) or the National Alliance on Mental Illness of Massachusetts (namimass.org).

Episode #22: Discovering Drea: Exploring Family History and Identity

Mary Hsiao-Ling Wu was diagnosed with renal agenesis at the tender age of three and her parents, who were immigrants from China, were told that kidney transplantation was the only option to save her life. Fortunately for Mary, she received the ultimate gift of two separate kidney transplants. 

How does one become a donor? Is it only for the young and healthy? Aren’t there enough organs for those who need them? In this episode, Mary helps to dispel common myths around organ donation. Her lived experience has led her to become a champion for the organ donation and transplantation community. She is also widely recognized for her role as a patient and community health advocate, speaker, and contributor to various publications and social media blogs. As author of the book, “Confessions of a Kidney Transplant Recipient,” she chronicles her personal experiences and the people along the way who supported and guided her throughout her health journey.

In her spare time, Mary is a passionate foodie and loves tea, cats, travel, writing, arts and crafts, and swimming. You can learn more about her work and writings at her website: “The Wu Way” www.thewuway.com.

RESOURCES: 

- Mary Wu’s Website: http://www.thewuway.com
- Mary’s book, “Confessions of a Kidney Transplant Recipient”
- To become a life-saving organ, eye, and tissue donor: https://registerme.org/ or www.donatelife.net 
- Live on NY, a local organ procurement organization: https://www.liveonny.org/ 
- Transplant Support Organization, a NY-based support group: https://www.transplantsupport.org/our-story 
- Renal Support Network, a California and kidney-based support group:  http://www.rsnhope.org 
- UNOS (United Network Organ Sharing), a transplant system that is federally run: https://unos.org/ 
- Disaggregated Data on Organ Donation & Asian Americans: https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/omh/browse.aspx?lvl=4&lvlid=57

*Disclaimer

The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Episode #21:  The Wu Way: Advocating for the Gift of Life through Organ & Tissue Donation

Why is it important to use proper gender pronouns? And how can we further foster an environment of inclusion and respect? In this episode, we speak to Chan Som, (they/them), a queer, nonbinary Cambodian American, whose path to embracing their gender-identity has been far from linear. As a public health advocate, youth mentor, and content creator, Chan has used multi-media to share personal stories for and about the LGBTQ+ community. 

Chan is also an award-winning storyteller and filmmaker, and has directed their own short film, “Coming Out Wasn’t Funny,” which won the 2018 Short Waves Film Competition hosted by the Asian American Film Festival.

In this podcast episode, Chan reflects on their intersectional life and experience of gender and bicultural identity, generational and cultural challenges and, ultimately, the power behind love and self-acceptance.
 
Resource Links:

- Chan's Award-Winning Short Film, "Coming Out Wasn't Funny."
   Boston Asian American Short Waves 2018
http://www.baaff.org/shortwaves2018.html

- Southeast Asia Resource Action Center
https://www.searac.org/

Chan's Everyday Ritual & Favorite Spots for Coffee!
- Nibbana Cafe
https://nibbanacafe.com/
- Revival Cafe + Kitchen
https://www.revivalcafeandkitchen.com/
- Odd Meter Coffee Co.
https://www.oddmetercoffee.com/

More About Chan Som:

Chan Som is currently Communications and Operations Specialist for Asian Women For Health and a Master’s candidate at Boston University School of Public Health, studying Health Communication and Promotion and Sex, Sexuality, and Gender. 

Chan has a background in multimedia projects, including digital storytelling from UMass Boston. Their hobby for photography evolved to narrate meaningful stories of community members, whether through still photographs or videos.

Outside of work and school, Chan enjoys discovering new coffee shops and restaurants and watching Korean variety shows to relax. In the near future, Chan hopes to pursue a career outside the States and build a clinic for the LGBTQIA+ population in Cambodia, and to promote visibility and safe spaces.

*Disclaimer

The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Episode #20: Telling Their Stories: Speaking Out and Embracing Gender Identity

What does it mean to be neurodivergent and how does one learn to navigate the complexities around self-identity with cultural stigmas and neuro-myths at play? In this episode, Emily Chen shares her experiences living with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It is a common, but underdiagnosed neurodevelopment challenge, and rarely discussed within Asian American households. 

Emily's health journey has been one of self-discovery and learning. Her passions include teaching voice and piano. Today, she is a mental health advocate, an Asian Women For Health volunteer, and creator of DisOrient, an educational YouTube series on Asian American mental health, neurodiversity, and representation.  She is currently pursuing her graduate studies in speech language and pathology so she can advance the work on ADHD and executive functions. Emily embodies both strength and vulnerability in being "open and willing to seek and accept help.”  Check out her resource links below.

More About Emily Chen:

Emily Chen (she/her), BMA, is a Taiwanese American mental health advocate, educator, and classical singer. She grew up in Greater Boston and is a graduate of DePauw University. In addition to being the creator of DisOrient, she also writes articles for Project Harmonious at University of Massachusetts Medical and ADDitude Magazine. In between these many endeavors, Emily enjoys writing poetry and songs, looking at trees on walks, and laughing loudly.

Resource Links:

- Emily's website (with links to DisOrient): https://www.emilychenstudio.com/

- Emily's ADDitude Magazine guest blogs: https://www.additudemag.com/author/emily-chen/

- Project Harmonious at UMass Medical School (Chinese American mental health stories): https://projectharmonious.org/

- "Maybe" (Emily's original song) for the 2021 Asian American Mental Health Forum: https://youtu.be/vdwybrFGUjY

- Emily’s Playlist favorite, "Racist, Sexist Boy" (The Linda Lindas): https://youtu.be/J5AhU5Q7vH0 and "Never Say Never" (The Linda Lindas): https://youtu.be/kTYvl0XgHOc

*Disclaimer 

The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Episode #19: Bringing ADHD Into Focus

WARNING: This podcast references multiple forms of trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), self-harming behavior, and mental health.

Heidi Lee recently chose to speak publicly about her mental health journey as a daily survivor of bipolar disorder & complex PTSD. In this episode, she shares her lived experience with mental health challenges and the learning and passions that transpired along her healing journey. 

Today, she works as a certified peer specialist for Boston Health Care for the Homeless Program (https://www.bhchp.org). She is also a part-time teacher, a gifted artist, mental health advocate, and mother to a beautiful, neurodivergent six year old. 

You will be moved by her stories of struggle and hope, encouraged by her resilience, and inspired by her resolve to address mental health and racial equity through advocacy in action.

Heidi’s Resource Picks:

Note: Even while the prevalence of mental health issues continues to rise in our communities, AAPI adults are the racial group least likely to seek mental health services in the U.S. (Mental Health America).

- National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) - https://www.nami.org/Home
- NAMI’s Peer-to-Peer course - https://www.nami.org/Support-Education/Mental-Health-Education/NAMI-Peer-to-Peer
- NAMI’s Family-to-Family course - https://www.nami.org/Support-Education/Mental-Health-Education/NAMI-Family-to-Family
- Kiva Centers (formerly Transformation Center) - https://kivacenters.org
- Kiva Centers’ Certified Peer Training - https://kivacenters.org/trainings/certified-peer-specialist
- Recommended Ted Talk: The Brain-Changing Benefits of Exercise by Wendy Suzuki

https://youtu.be/BHY0FxzoKZE

MORE About Heidi Lee

As a housing navigator for Boston’s homeless, Heidi’s goal is to bring dignity back to those who have had it taken away from them, which in this season means finding subsidized homes for those who are living on the streets or in shelters.

Heidi received a master’s degree in education (M.Ed), which suited her well during her 12-year stint as a classroom teacher. Heidi recently became a grad student again at Northeastern University working towards the Masters in Public Administration program (specializing in healthcare management) so that she can do her part to be a voice for the voiceless. She has since discovered her passion in working as a Certified Peer Specialist (CPS). 

Heidi is also studying Brazilian Jiu Jitsu and Karate and truly enjoys her daily HIIT (high intensity interval training) exercises because they serve as a natural antidepressant. She also paints portraits for friends who are grieving the loss of someone they love and is striving to be a yelp foodie one day. 

* For More Podcast Episodes, visit Asian Women For Health: https://www.asianwomenforhealth.org/current-podcasts.html

DISCLAIMER:

The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. A

Episode #18: A Walk In Her Shoes: Living With Mental Health Challenges

Lea Tran is an ethnic Chinese, who was born and raised in Vietnam. At the age of 16, Lea and her family fled their homeland with 500 other “Boat People” refugees after the fall of Saigon. In this episode, we reflect on her family’s arduous journey across the South China Sea, the complexities of rebuilding a new life in the U.S., and her personal path to healing. Lea’s story is a testament of self-discovery, courage, and resilience in overcoming adversity. She offers an inspiring voice of hope for anyone who may experience emotional or persistent trauma. 

Lea continues to reconcile her past with present opportunities to share her experiences and life lessons. Today, she is a dynamic speaker and published author of her own memoir, a transformational coach, and a fellow podcaster. She also thrives on the love and support of her family, her husband, and adult son.

Links:

Website: www.LeaTran.com
 
Personal Memoir, I Did Not Miss the Boat:  http://bit.ly/LeaTranBook 

TEDx Talk: http://bit.ly/LeaTranTEDx  

Social Media:

- A Thriving Conversation on FaceBook - https://www.facebook.com/groups/AThrivingConversation

- Family Roots Podcast - https://www.leatran.com/podcast

More about Lea Tran:

Lea Tran is a former "Boat person" refugee from Vietnam, a female scientist turned successful business owner and now speaker and author.
 
Lea had brought her story to the TEDx stage and then revealed her harrowing journey in her first book, I Did Not Miss the Boat. She delivers her powerful message of courage and hope during challenging times in her keynote speeches.

Extracting from her life experiences, Lea motivates her audience to bridge the gaps of cultural differences, to take action to break the mold of generational sufferings, and to create their own opportunity to thrive.

Episode #17: The Power of Story in Healing Trauma

What does it mean to live as your authentic self? In this episode, Jeanie Y. Chang, LMFT, reflects on her own identity journey as a second generation Korean American, and discovering her vocation as an interdisciplinary, mental health clinician who serves the needs of APIA families and their communities.

 

Today, Jeanie is Founder and CEO of her own therapeutic practice, Your Change Provider, PLLC®. She is also a sought-after global speaker and a best-selling author to her personal memoir, A is for Authentic, Not for Anxieties or Straight A’s. Above all, she is a loving wife and mother of four.

 

Together, we discuss the complex intersectionality of mental health, identity, mindfulness, and resilience, and explore the hidden magic behind Cultural Confidence™ and claiming one’s narrative. Get ready for a treasure trove of resourceful insights and aha moments as Jeanie addresses stigma around mental health and the impact of racial trauma as she promotes good mental health and emotional well-being.

 

 

Resource Links:

- Web site: Your Change Provider, PLLC®

- Social Media/Blog Posts/Podcasts: https://solo.to/jeaniechang 

- Personal Memoir: A is for Authentic: Not for Anxieties or for Straight A’s (available on Amazon)

- Host of Noona's Noonchi on YouTube
 

More on Jeanie Y. Chang, LMFT, CMHIMP, CCTP

 
-  A solutions-focused, Licensed Marriage and Family Therapist, Certified Mental Health Integrative Medicine Provider, and Certified Clinical Trauma Professional
- CEO & Founder, Your Change Provider, PLLC®

- Creator, Cultural Confidence™  

- President and Board Chairman of Asian Mental Health Collective

- National Director, NAAAP Self-Care & Wellness (National Association of Asian American Professionals)

 

 LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanieychang/


* Disclaimer 

The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Episode #16: Authenticity in Action: On A Mission to Normalize Mental Health

Chia Ying Serene Chen grew up in Taiwan. She is a loving wife and an amazing mother to a young, active son. In this episode, she shares her personal struggles adapting to a different culture and a new life in the U.S. While learning how to balance family and her own expectations, she receives a life-changing, stage 4 breast cancer diagnosis. This sets her on a path of self-discovery and personal growth, as well as a calling to help other cancer survivors.  

Although exploring options for cancer treatment is often riddled with uncertainty and fear, it can also lead to new perspectives and unforeseen blessings. You’ll surely draw strength and inspiration, and the power behind personal choice as you hear Serene’s journey.

-------------


More on Chia Ying Serene Chen 

While undergoing chemo treatment, Serene completed a two hundred-hour, yoga instructor certification. She has since launched her own podcast in Mandarin to share the stories of other cancer survivors. Along with her acupuncturist and herbalist husband, Serene also promotes special exercises to help boost people’s immune systems. 

 

Resource Links:

 

- 心靈道語 Serene Pat‪h Podcast

 

Apple:

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/%E5%BF%83%E9%9D%88%E9%81%93%E8%AA%9E-serene-path/id1547087407

 

Google:

https://podcasts.google.com?feed=aHR0cHM6Ly9hbmNob3IuZm0vcy80NjI3MTdiYy9wb2RjYXN0L3Jzcw%3D%3D

 

Anchor (by Spotify)

心靈道語 Serene Path • A podcast on Anchor



- YouTube: In Hand Acupuncture & Herbs with Mr. Gu https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCEeGWPP6lPWYk7TKUmXrlzQ

 

- Asian Americans and Cancer Fact Sheet

https://www.asianwomenforhealth.org/uploads/1/2/5/9/125927439/acs-fact-sheet.pdf

 

* DISCLAIMER
The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Episode #15: Finding Serene - Discovering a Personal Path to Breast Cancer Treatment

Food is the fuel for our bodies, brains, and spirits, but how tuned are we into the conversation between our brain and gut that is impacting our moods, behaviors, and energy? For this episode, we tap into the health and wellness expertise of Nicole Arcilla, MS, RDN, LDN, a licensed dietician and nutritionist and owner of Your Gut Feeling, an online nutrition business that takes holistic health approaches and gut healing to enhance people’s mental health. In this episode, find out what it means to be “healthy” and how working with a dietician nutritionist can support personal goals around meal planning that centers around embracing cultural foods and choices that lead to healthier habits towards a more productive and balanced lifestyle. 

Join a free workshop with Nicole on March 22-24 at 7pm EST to help boost your mood, energy & focus. (Live recordings will be available to registered attendees for a limited time). Register Today at www.yourgutfeeling.co/freeworkshop and get ready for freebies and a workbook to support your journey towards healthy living. 

Additional Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicolearcilla
Instagram: @yourgutfeeling.co
Nicole’s Newsletter: http://www.yourgutfeeling.co/
 
More on Nicole Arcilla, MS, RDN, LDN:
Nicole Arcilla is a registered dietician and nutritionist from the D.C. Metro area with a diverse background and experience in nutrition education, nutrition communications, and food service.  She is also the founder and owner of Your Gut Feeling, an online nutrition business that takes holistic health approaches and gut healing to enhance people’s mental health.

Nicole is a proud Filipino American, a wife, and guardian to two cats. She is also an arts enthusiast with a passion for photography, music, and poetry. In a pre-COVID world, she enjoyed spending weekends visiting cafés and judging each one by the quality of their lattes. Lately, she has been reading more books and trying to write some of her own poems.

***
Disclaimer:
The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Episode #14: Highway to Healthy Living: Exploring the Gut and Mind Connection

Is it safe for women to turn off their periods? Join us for an intimate discussion with Taiwanese American Sophia Yen, MD, MPH. As CEO and Co-Founder of Pandia Health, she helped launch the first and only birth control delivery company founded and led by women - with a physician at the helm! In this episode, we’re taking an intimate look at women’s reproductive health and demystifying birth control while exploring #PeriodsOptional.
 
In addition to her work as an entrepreneur, Dr. Yen works in adolescent medicine and serves as clinical Associate Professor of Pediatrics at Stanford Medical School. She is a mother, wife, and a passionate advocate for women’s health, empowerment, and equity. She co-founded 3 nonprofit organizations/projects in her endeavors to improve the lives of women, including SheHeroes.org, a nonprofit that encourages young girls from all backgrounds to pursue nontraditional careers in STEM. 
 
Resource Links:
- https://www.pandiahealth.com (also on Instagram, FB, YouTube, TikTok, and Twitter)
- https://www.pandiahealth.com/periods-optional
 
First time on birth control pills? here are Dr. Yen’s tips
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3-Pzapgs68s
 
- TEDxBerkeley talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uJ7-_MOjEeY&feature=emb_logo
- SheHeroes.org: https://www.sheheroes.org

Disclaimer:
The information on this page is not intended or implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. All content in this podcast is for general information purposes only.

Episode #13: Dr. Sophia Yen on Birth Control and #PeriodsOptional.

Warning! The content of this podcast may be triggering to some listeners and other sexual assault survivors, so please take the necessary precautions.

For this episode, we’re breaking the silence on sexual assault with our special guest and survivor, Sara Kuuipo Mishina Kunz. Sara has struggled with PTSD and depression, but she has used her personal experience as a survivor of sexual assault to better the lives of others. 

Today, she is the proud founder of Survivor Stories, a mobile app created to bring mental health care to sexual assault survivors. She has written and performed an award-winning story, as well as a full-length comedy play about mental health, sexual assault, and the path to recovery. Her passion for visual and performing arts and comedy has helped her to thrive and connect with people all around the world.

Sara is an internationally renowned artist, performing her solo comedy circus show called, “The Flyin Hawaiian Show,” from Dubai to China.  She is master of the hula hoop and contortion.

For more about Sara Kunz, visit https://www.sarakunz.com/

Podcast #12: Survivor Stories: Healing with Humor

While the prevalence of women’s breast cancer varies significantly by race/ethnicity, an earlier age-onset of breast cancer incidence, specifically among Asian and Asian American women, have warranted more research and public outreach for early screenings and mammograms, and education on the risk factors.

In this episode, we follow the personal journey of one young cancer survivor and advocate, Jeannie Karkowski, who was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 30.  In the face of stigmas and struggles with her bi-cultural identity, she discovered the power of her own voice, as well as a support network that has helped her to heal and contribute to the community. 
 
Additional Resources:
1. https://www.15-40.org/
2. Asian Women for Health: https://www.asianwomenforhealth.org/
3. Pink Hippy: http://pinkhippy.org/
4. Living Beyond Breast Cancer: https://www.lbbc.org/

BIO:
Jeannie Aejin Choi Karwowski was born in South Korea and moved to the US with her family as a teenager. She married the love of her life at the age of 28. She was later diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 30 as she was planning to have her first child. She endured many treatments (chemotherapy, surgery, and radiation) for nearly two years.  Jeannie is now on long-term hormone therapies and looking forward to leading a healthy and happy life. 

Jeannie actively participates in support groups for breast cancer, such as Living Beyond Breast Cancer and Lay Breast Health Advisors of Dana Farber Cancer Institute (https://www.dana-farber.org/), to help promote young women’s health in her community. She recently completed the Project LEAD Breast Cancer Advocacy Training Program of the National Breast Cancer Coalition (NBCC) and participated as a rider for the first time in Tour de Pink East, hosted by the Young Survival Coalition. Nationally, she plans to continue participating in NBCC’s lobby day for breast cancer public policy advocacy and research panel reviews for the cure. In her spare time, she plays the piano and enjoys outdoor activities with her husband. With her degree in Biomedical engineering, Jeannie hopes to go back to school to find cures for breast cancer, serve cancer patients with love and compassion, and provide evidence-based guides and resources for patients and caregivers.

Podcast #11: Living Beyond Cancer and Cultural Stigma / Breast Cancer

As a racial/ethnic group, Asian Americans have the highest rates of Hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection, a leading cause of liver cancer. Nearly 50% of those affected by HBV today in the U.S. are of Asian descent, of which more than 70% are foreign-born. How could the prevalence of HBV be so disproportionately high in the Asian community?

In this episode, we sound the alarm on this critical public health issue with Dr. Elisa Choi, Internist and Infectious Disease Specialist, and Chief of Internal Medicine at her medical practice. Her concern over health disparities and commitment to providing culturally competent care to ethnic-specific populations have made her a champion and advocate of Hep B awareness. While Hepatitis B is not curable, it is both treatable and preventable with proper screening and vaccination. 

Additional Resources:
1. American College of Physicians: Massachusetts Chapter: https://www.acponline.org/about-acp/chapters-regions/united-states/massachusetts-chapter/news-meetings

2. Hepatitis and Asian Americans: https://minorityhealth.hhs.gov/omh/browse.aspx?lvl=4&lvlid=50

3. HepBMD.com: https://hepbmd.com/

About Dr. Elisa Choi, MD
Dr. Elisa Choi is the current Governor of the MA Chapter of the American College of Physicians (ACP), becoming the first female and only Asian-American woman to be elected to the Governorship in the history of the MA ACP Chapter. She is Board Certified in Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases, and practices both as an Internist and as an Infectious Disease, HIV, and Hepatitis infection specialist. Dr. Choi has a particular interest in healthcare disparities, and in providing culturally competent care addressing health issues affecting Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) and minority populations.

Dr. Choi is on the faculty at Harvard Medical School and holds clinical and educational leadership positions in her healthcare organization. She serves as a Chief of the Internal Medicine Department at her practice. She has extensive experience in healthcare and public health advocacy efforts at Capitol Hill, Washington, DC, and has also been actively involved in the planning and organization of an annual Advocacy Day at the MA State House for the MA ACP Chapter since 2016.”

Podcast #10: Raising The Alarm on a Preventable Epidemic / Hepatitis B

The struggle to conceive a child is real. It’s difficult to predict who is at risk for infertility, but it’s an issue that affects approximately 10-15% of couples throughout the U.S.  And while in-vitro fertilization (IVF) has become a familiar household term, the complexity of the procedure and its impact on couples remain a bit of a mystery. In this episode, we share a candid conversation with Jarling Ho, who opens up about all the highs and lows of her personal IVF journey. 

Jarling recently moved to Boston from LA, where she had served as Executive Director of the Asian Pacific American Dispute Resolution Center.  She has extensive experience in conflict management, and has helped communities, organizations, and individuals manage differences effectively.  She is a mediator, facilitator, coach, and restorative justice practitioner.

Additional Resources
1. Visit CCRM Fertility: https://www.ccrmivf.com
2. Know more about In Vitro Fertilization (IVF): https://infertility.brighamandwomens.org/ivf
3. Visit Boston IVF: https://www.bostonivf.com/

Asian Women for Health

Asian Women for Health

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