Cultureful

What is it like to grow up in a country where you didn’t have legal status to be there?In the premiere of this powerful three-part series, we sit down with Maria, a twenty-something healthcare worker in the U.S. who grew up undocumented. We trace her early childhood —from the high-stakes reality of crossing the border as an infant using a borrowed passport, to the vibrant, chaotic warmth of a crowded family home, to the sudden isolation of navigating a brand-new public school system.Before the legal and financial walls of adulthood began to surface, Maria was just a kid racing her neighborhood friends to play outside before the streetlights came on. This is a story about the structural forces that shape migration, the deep resilience of young mothers, and what it truly means to build a life under the radar.Show Notes & Community Hub LinksIn This Episode, We Discuss:00:00 The Backpack on the Bus 00:14 Welcome to Cultureful 01:37 Leaving Mexico: Family Roots 07:55 Crossing the Border: The Cousin's Passport 09:50 Growing Up Undocumented in the U.S. 20:52 Family & Grandma Memories 30:21 Public School & Plyler v. Doe Access 37:25 Universal Right to Education Connect With Our Community:SHARE YOUR THOUGHTS ON INSTAGRAM ← Click here to join the conversation on our main thread and share your own childhood memories or how Maria’s story is landing with you.Historical & Structural Context Notes:The Mexican Peso Crisis (1994): A sudden, catastrophic currency devaluation that decimated working-class savings and forced millions of families to migrate as a matter of structural survival.Pre-9/11 Border Infrastructure: A transitional enforcement era operating under the legacy INS, relying heavily on manual, porous visual document checks before the centralization of modern biometric data and facial recognition.Plyler v. Doe (1982): The landmark Supreme Court decision ruling that denying access to public K-12 education based on immigration status violates the 14th Amendment; guaranteeing a universal right to school that stands in sharp contrast to the adult legal walls that surface later.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

“And the air… if you're from LA, you know that faint smell of pee in the morning … and the air was so clean here. It was crisp. It was so unbelievably clean .”What happens when an outspoken, willful teenager is suddenly uprooted from the familiar concrete grit of 1990s Los Angeles and dropped onto a rural coffee farm in the mountains of Guatemala?In the second half of our deep-dive conversation with Yeira, we trace her family’s profound journey of reverse migration. After navigating the shifting urban landscape of LA, her parents make a radical pivot; seeking safety, language immersion, and cultural roots in their ancestral homeland. What follows is a breathtaking story of severe environmental culture shock that beautifully transforms into a deep lifelong romance with the Earth, agricultural community, and self-reliance .From treating a conservative private Christian school as her personal teenage "anthropological study" to discovering the profound psychological safety of a place where she never had to answer the question, “Where are you from?”, Yeira de Leon reflects on how navigating life between two radically different worlds shaped her identity, her worldview, and ultimately her modern career as a therapist .It is both a geographical and deeply emotional ride about uprooting, belonging, and the choices that define home. Welcome back to Cultureful, where strangers become neighbors.---------Connect with Our Guest & Community:Follow the Journey on Instagram: @TheCulturefulConnect with Yeira: https://www.canopyandlightcounseling.org/ Discover More Identity Stories: Head over to our channel and subscribe to stay close with your global neighbors.What do you think? Feel?: with us: Leave us a comment on Apple, Spotify, YouTube or Instagram! We want to hear from you.---------Production Credits:Hosted, produced, and edited by Jess Lin. Executive production support by Ruben Gnanaruban.---------Watch on YouTube: Live at 8am EST 5/24/26: https://youtu.be/Lf9YeldcEWc Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

"Use your voice."In part one of this two-part conversation, we meet Yeira, a 39-year-old Guatemalan-American therapist who grew up navigating the sharp contrasts of 1990s Los Angeles. Her story begins as a carefree kid hanging out on the sands of Redondo Beach, a neighborhood in South Bay Los Angeles, before moving to the tight-knit, resilient streets of Inglewood.Yeira reflects on a childhood where her outspokenness, like telling a teacher to be quiet in the third grade, was met with creative discipline from parents who balanced firm boundaries with a respect for her spirit. We explore the vivid details of a first-generation home where street hockey lived alongside traditional practices like keeping live chickens.As the 1990s saw the South Bay transform and communities in Inglewood face the dual pressures of disinvestment and rising costs, Yeira’s family stood at a crossroads. This episode is a look at the power of place, the strength of a neighborhood block when it becomes a community, and the pivotal choices that set the stage for a massive plot twist in her life.In this episode, we discuss:Navigating the "aerospace capital" of Redondo Beach and the displacement of working families.The reality of the 90s gang era and the sanctuary built by Black and Latino families in Inglewood.Creative discipline: How journaling became a tool for teaching a willful child.The "parallel play" of Southern California suburbs and the importance of cultural anchors.-------------------------------Support the Show This show exists to explore and reflect on underrepresented perspectives and the messy, beautiful ways they interact with our cultures. Join our community of supporters today. Support the Show: https://ko-fi.com/cultureful-------------------------------Watch on YouTube See the video version of this episode: https://youtu.be/QPMb_VDKaIQ-------------------------------Connect with Yeira You can connect with Yeira through her organization: https://www.canopyandlightcounseling.org/ -------------------------------Episode CreditsFounding Supporter Shout-outs: Special thanks this week to Teresa Santiago and Chanthy.Host, Producer, & Sound Design: Jess LinAdvising & Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

How do you bring your whole self to a family function? In the second half of our conversation, Michelle reveals the radical honesty required to integrate her polyamorous and queer reality with her Colombian family roots. From navigating family gatherings with two partners to a tough conversation with her aunt, Michelle shares the pillars of integrity and respect that guide her life.While many choose the path of least resistance, Michelle’s story is a masterclass in bridging cultural and generational gaps without shying away from her true self.In this episode, we explore:Radical Honesty: The courage to be seen by family members who may not fully understand your romantic life.The "Tia" Lesson: How Michelle navigated a family gathering with two partners and maintained deep family bonds.Pillars of Integrity: Why respect for oneself and one's partners is the foundation of healthy polyamory.--------------------Support Our Season 3 FundraiserWe are building a platform for cross-cultural storytelling that fosters empathy across generations and cultures. If you believe in a global neighborhood where no one is an outsider, please consider contributing today: https://ko-fi.com/cultureful--------------------Watch on YouTubeSee the video version of this episode (Live at 9pm EST on 4/28/26): --------------------Connect with MichelleFollow her journey on Instagram: @pebblespins--------------------Episode CreditsFounding Supporter Shout-outs: Special thanks this week to Groverel and AmyHost, Producer, & Sound Design: Jess LinAdvising & Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

“I do it for myself. Because I want to feel confident for me. I could care less about the male gaze. That’s a part of Latino culture that I have flipped.”Michelle identifies as Latina first. She is a 32-year-old creative, and in this first half of our conversation, we trace the roots of her identity from the mountains of Pereira, Colombia to her life today in Atlanta.From the "telenovela" of her first love and the end of a marriage to the intimate beauty rituals she shared with her mother, Michelle explores the complex "give and take" of inheriting a culture. We discuss how to honor your family's traditions while "flipping the script" to make room for your own modern, intersectional values.In this episode, we explore:The Identity Order: Why Michelle leads with being Latina, and how that anchors her journey as a queer and polyamorous woman.The Ritual of Makeup: Transforming a tradition rooted in the male gaze into a tool for community care and trans-femme empowerment.Subversive Tradition: The intentional process of deciding what to keep, what to leave, and what to evolve within the Colombian diaspora.Whether she's teaching her community how to find their confidence or reflecting on the chapters of her love life, Michelle offers a masterclass in living authentically.--------------------Support Our Season 3 FundraiserWe are building a platform for cross-cultural storytelling that fosters empathy across generations and cultures. If you believe in a global neighborhood where no one is an outsider, please consider contributing today: https://ko-fi.com/cultureful--------------------Watch on YouTubeSee the video version of this episode (Live at 11am EST on 4/14/26): https://youtu.be/-21BVGbeGEg--------------------Connect with Michelle Follow her journey on Instagram: @pebblespins--------------------Episode CreditsFounding Supporter Shout-outs: Special thanks this week to Jackson Evans and Judy Thornhill.Community Connection: Special thanks to Quinn O’Briant for connecting us with Michelle.Host, Producer, & Sound Design: Jess LinAdvising & Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In this "Wind Down" bonus session, we step away from the historical timeline to debrief with Willy on the personal "blueprint" that shaped his childhood. From the tactical way his mother navigated American extracurriculars to his surprisingly strong defense of why Costco beats a theme park, this conversation explores the lighter side of the 1.5 generation experience.In This Episode, We Explore:The Reflection: Willy shares why discussing personal culture and childhood feels "fuzzy" compared to the concrete world of science and tech.The American Blueprint: How Willy’s mother used his cousins’ childhoods as a map for his own upbringing—from swimming and Boy Scouts to finding his footing in the U.S.The Power of After-School Programs: A look at the affordable group lessons that allowed Willy to pick up five different musical instruments.The Costco Disneyland: Why Willy considers the value, discovery, and free samples of Costco to be superior to the "happiest place on earth."The Lightning Round: Willy’s "on-brand" media picks (Oppenheimer, When Breath Becomes Air) and his definitive last meal—the long-lost Costco combo pizza.Support Our Season 3 Fundraiser: We are in the middle of our fundraiser to build this platform for cross-cultural storytelling. If you believe in our vision, please consider contributing today: https://ko-fi.com/culturefulWatch on YouTube: See the video version of this episode- Goes live on YouTube at 12pm EST: https://youtu.be/W3hRao5mA_4Episode CreditsHost, Producer, Research & Sound Design: Jess LinAdvising and Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In the second half of our conversation with Willy, a 28-year-old biomedical researcher, we shift from the historical foundations of his family’s past to the lived reality of the 1.5 generation experience. This episode explores the high-stakes world of the South Korean education system and the invisible labor of children who serve as the primary bridge between two cultures.From the late-night intensity of Hagwons to the competitive stage of the Science Olympiad, Willy’s story reveals how external feedback and cultural expectations shape a child’s path toward a career in STEM. We also dive into the complex role of the cultural broker—the 1.5 and second-generation immigrant children who navigate adult systems like banking, healthcare, and telecommunications for their immigrant parents.In This Episode, We Explore:The 1.5 Generation Experience: Defining the unique identity of those born abroad but raised in the U.S., and the "two sides of the same coin" reality of navigating dual cultures.Hagwons & The Suneung: An inside look at the South Korean "cram school" culture and the national university entrance exam that defines student life.Cultural Brokering: The sophisticated—and often stressful—role of children as linguistic and procedural intermediaries for their families.The STEM Spark: How a pivotal experience in Science Olympiad transformed Willy’s self-perception and launched his journey into biomedical research.Linguistic Continuity: A look at Willy’s immersion in the Korean education system during his summers, including the study of Hanmun (classical Chinese characters) and how regular use kept his fluency sharp while living in the West.----------------Support Season 3 In an era where diversity content is endangered, your support helps me keep featuring these beautiful global neighbors and their underrepresented perspectives. Join our community of supporters today: https://ko-fi.com/cultureful----------------Watch on YouTube See the video version of this episode [Live at 8AM EST]: https://youtu.be/UQhAWIR2P_I----------------Historical References & Sources To maintain the integrity of our storytelling, we utilize peer-reviewed data and sociological research:Cultural Brokering: Research by Valdés (2003) and the UC Merced (2025) breakdown of language, procedural, and emotion brokering subtypes.1.5 Generation Identity: Cohort studies via the Harvard Immigration Initiative on acculturation and "hyphenated" identities.Korean Education System: Historical context on the Suneung and the evolution of the Hagwon industry in post-war South Korea.----------------Connect with WillyIG: wj3pic----------------Episode Credits Founding Supporter Shout-outs: Special thanks this week to Vinita and Guy, Asher, and Nate! Host, Producer, Research & Sound Design: Jess Lin Advising and Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In this episode, we sit down with Willy, a 28-year-old biomedical researcher originally from Sacramento and currently living in Atlanta, to explore a lineage rooted in the resilient history of the Korean Peninsula. From the forced labor of the Japanese occupation to the enduring community structures of the Northern California delta, Willy's story is a map of the 1.5 generation experience. This conversation isn’t just a biography; it’s a deep dive into the historical backdrops of the 20th century—from the systematic linguistic hierarchy of the Joseon Dynasty to the unique community network of immigrant neighborhoods.In This Episode, We Explore:The Joseon Legacy: How a 500-year-old Neo-Confucian social order codified respect into the very grammar of the Korean language.Imperial Aftermath: The impact of the Japanese occupation (1910–1945) on Willy’s great grandparents and grandparents and the shifting geography of post-war South Korea.Community Dynamics: The role of the Korean Catholic church and Saturday language schools in Sacramento that defined Willy’s childhood.Systematic Hierarchy: Why Korean is one of the most grammatically pervasive methods of social coding in existence, and the reality of navigating those rules as a child.--------------------Support Our Season 3 Fundraiser We are in the final days of our fundraiser to build a platform for cross-cultural storytelling that builds empathy across generations. If you believe in our vision of a connected global neighborhood where no one is an outsider, please consider a contributing today: https://ko-fi.com/cultureful--------------------Watch on YouTube See the video version of this episode: Link goes live at 5pm EST on 3/17/26: https://youtu.be/HTxL_VKdt-g--------------------Historical References & Sources To maintain the integrity of our storytelling, we utilize peer-reviewed historical data and archival records:Korean Honorifics: Sohn (2006) and Brown (2011) on the agglutinative nature of Korean social coding and its Neo-Confucian roots.The Japanese Occupation: Records of the 1910–1945 period via the National Archives of Korea.Post-War Migration: Research on the "1.5 Generation" and Korean-American religious enclaves via the Journal of Korean-American Studies.--------------------Connect with WillyIG: wj3picEpisode CreditsFounding Supporter Shout-outs: Special thanks this week to Martina and Hope, Maggie, and Han!Host, Producer, Research & Sound Design: Jess Lin Advising and Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Taking a little extra time this week to get our next full episode ready, so today I’m sharing our first-ever "Extra Gems" bonus segment!In this episode, we’re diving back into my conversation with Jin to share a few stories that were too good to keep in the vault. Jin takes us back to her childhood training at elite youth ping pong centers in Beijing and reflects on the beautiful consistency of her mentor, Uncle George. We also talk about the "flow state" of returning to the sport postpartum and the magic of finding your agility again through practice.We’ll be back next Tuesday with a new guest and story!In this bonus segment, we discuss:Traveling to China as a middle schooler for elite athletic training.The life lessons learned from long-term mentorship.The feeling of "flow" and getting your body back into the rhythm of the game.Read the Blog Post: Here Join the Email List: Here Support Our Mission: Become a Season 3 Supporter If you believe in our vision of a connected global neighborhood where no one is an outsider, please consider becoming a Season 3 Supporter. Your contribution keeps these co-created memoirs independent, accessible, and powered by neighbors. Become a Supporter today: https://ko-fi.com/cultureful--------------------Watch on YouTube: Goes live at 10am EST Mar 10, 2026: https://youtu.be/bUi-Q3kxDVQ--------------------Episode CreditsHost, Producer, Research & Sound Design: Jess LinAdvising and Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In the final chapter of our journey with Jin, we step behind the counter of the family restaurant and into the world of competitive ping pong. This episode explores childhood as a restaurant kid and treasured moments of quality family time in between whirlwind schedules for parents and children alike. From her parents’ challenging backgrounds, we see the family they were able to build and the people their children grow up to be. And how, though remarkably challenging for immigrant families, Jin was able to build an adult friendship with her parents.In This Episode, We Explore:The Restaurant Kid Subculture: A look at balancing school and extracurriculars while helping out with the family business, and developing a special awareness of their parents’ sacrifice and hard work.Ping Pong and Life Lessons: How Jin stumbled into effectively free ping pong lessons that taught her resilience, focus, and skills she would apply to the rest of her life.Parent-Child Relationships: A look at the child-centric values of Jin’s parents—what they sought to mold in their children versus the moments they sought their children's opinions.Intergenerational Friendships: The rare and moving transition from the traditional parent-child hierarchy to becoming genuine friends with her parents in adulthood.--------------------Explore the Cultureful Heritage Collections: ✊🏾Black Voices Collection – Celebrating leadership, advocacy, and lived experience. The Collection on Spotify and YouTube 🏮Chinese and Taiwanese Voices Collection – Diversity of the diaspora and relating to family and identity. The Collection on Spotify and YouTube--------------------Read the Blog Post: Here Join the Email List: Here Support Our Mission: Become a Season 3 Supporter If you believe in our vision of a connected global neighborhood where no one is an outsider, please consider becoming a Season 3 Supporter. Your contribution keeps these co-created memoirs independent, accessible, and powered by neighbors. Become a Supporter today: https://ko-fi.com/cultureful--------------------Watch on YouTube: Goes live at 6pm EST Feb 24, 2026: https://youtu.be/AwLsbt1YPO0--------------------Episode CreditsHost, Producer, Research & Sound Design: Jess LinAdvising and Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanFounding Supporter Shout-outs: Special thanks this week to Matt and Nhi, Huiyuan, and Rachel C. — Your support powers the show!Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In Part Two of our journey with Jin, we move from the harrowing escape routes of the 1970s to the vibrant, complex grid of 1980s San Francisco Chinatown. This episode explores the different timelines of the Chinese diaspora—where four-generation American families collided with a new wave of Southeast Asian refugees. We trace a crazy meet-cute that involves a blind date gone wrong, the high costs of long-distance longing, and a relentless pursuit involving 150-pound bags of rice.In This Episode, We Explore:Chinatown’s Linguistic Map: Why 1980s San Francisco was a complex grid of mutually unintelligible dialects, from the Toisanese "Old Guard" to the prestige of Hong Kong Cantonese.The "Linguistic Chameleon": The double-silence faced by Teochew, Hokkien, and Hakka refugees who had to mask their origins to find work in garment factories and kitchens.The Logic of Lineage: A deep dive into the Confucian family structure and the strategic practice of child transfer (ti) to preserve family altars.The Gaokao Ceiling: How China’s high-stakes national exam served as a 5% gateway to social mobility—and how missing the cutoff changed the trajectory of Jin's mother’s life.--------------------Explore the Cultureful Heritage Collections: ✊🏾Black Voices Collection – Celebrating leadership, advocacy, and lived experience. The Collection on Spotify and YouTube 🏮Chinese and Taiwanese Voices Collection – Diversity of the diaspora and relating to family and identity. The Collection on Spotify and YouTube--------------------Support Our Mission: Become a Season 3 Supporter If you believe in our vision of a connected global neighborhood where no one is an outsider, please consider becoming a Season 3 Supporter: https://ko-fi.com/cultureful--------------------Watch on YouTube: Here--------------------Historical References & ContextTo maintain the integrity of our storytelling, we utilize peer-reviewed historical data and archival records. Key context for this episode includes:The Siyi Network: Documentation on the Toisanese (Taishanese) pioneers and their century-long influence on San Francisco property and commerce.Post-1965 Immigration: Records on the shift of Cantonese as the "prestige language" of business and media following the Hong Kong wave.The Gaokao System: Historical data on the 1977 reinstatement of the National College Entrance Exam and its role in defining the professional class.Confucian Hierarchy: Research on Filial Piety and the roles of the Da Xi Fu (Eldest Daughter-in-Law) within Teochew merchant family structures.--------------------Episode CreditsFounding Supporter Shout-outs: Special thanks this week to the Zhou Family, HS, and James and Jeannie Lin—the very first people to join our mission!Host, Producer, Research & Sound Design: Jess LinAdvising and Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

“In a world that often feels divided, Cultureful is about the intersections—where we put ourselves in each other’s shoes.”In the Season 3 premiere, we sit down with Jin - a 37 year old, Teochew Chinese American tech product manager from Peoria, IL- to trace a family lineage that spans the specialized merchant guilds of Southeastern China to the high-stakes escape from the outskirts of Saigon. This episode isn't just a survival story; it’s a deep dive into the historical backdrops of the 1970s—from the "Planned Economy" (jìhuà jīngjì) of the Cultural Revolution to the existential risk faced by the Vietnamese refugees after the Vietnam War.In This Episode, We Explore:The Teochew Diaspora: How a 30-million-strong ethnic group came to dominate the rice and medicine trades across Southeast Asia.Survival by Rations: Life under China's Cultural Revolution coupon system and the preciousness of a single morsel of pork.Saigon Conditions: The different challenges in urban Saigon versus rural outskirts during the Vietnam War.The Gulf of Thailand: The harrowing reality of systematic pirate encounters and the informal economy of the Pulau Bidong refugee camp.-------------------Support Our Season 3 Fundraiser- STILL OPEN!We are in the final days of our fundraiser to build a platform for cross-cultural storytelling that builds empathy across generations. Our goal is to find a few more Founding Supporters.If you believe in our vision of a connected global neighborhood where no one is an outsider, please consider a donation today: https://ko-fi.com/cultureful-------------------Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/ni3HPWHS-Rg-------------------Historical References & SourcesTo maintain the integrity of our storytelling, we utilize peer-reviewed historical data and archival records. Key sources for this episode include:The Vietnam Refugee Crisis: Statistics on the 1978–1980 exodus via the UN High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) archives.China’s Planned Economy: Documentation on the Jìhuà Jīngjì and the 1960s and 70s rationing systems via the Journal of Chinese Political Science.Pulau Bidong: Records on the 1979 population density peak via the Malaysian Red Crescent Society.Teochew Merchant History: Research on the Cholon district commerce via The Overseas Chinese and South East Asia historical surveys.-------------------Episode CreditsHost, Producer, Research & Sound Design: Jess Lin Advising and Production Support: Ruben GnanarubanSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Cultureful is a project for bridging cultures and building empathy. We’re back for Season 3 on Tuesday, January 27th! New intimate, up-close, and human stories coming your way. I have deep-dive conversations with regular, amazing people about the everyday experiences, traditions, and family histories that connect us all.3 Ways to Join the Global Neighborhood:Subscribe: Hit the "Follow" button so you don't miss our premiere on Jan 27.Watch on YouTube: Experience these stories in video at https://youtube.com/@cultureful?si=oV0E-T7UfcNHKAr3Support the Mission: Become a Founding Supporter of Cultureful by Jan 31: https://ko-fi.com/culturefulSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In this 2025 reflection, Cultureful host, Jess Lin, shares a personal update on hosting while healing, navigating a career pivot, and building a global neighborhood. From leaving a decade in Global Health to the realities of independent podcasting, this episode is a sincere thank you to the Founding Friends and neighbors who made this year possible.Support the Neighborhood: We are currently raising funds to help record and preserve more of these vital stories in 2026. If these memoirs have moved you, please consider contributing to our mission: 👉 https://ko-fi.com/culturefulStay Connected: Join our mailing list to be the first to know about new episodes, neighborhood news, and host reflections: https://forms.gle/EPxvvkskFt2md1Qf6Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/KaeI97kGAQYSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

👉 Join the circle of Founding Supporters: https://ko-fi.com/culturefulKwanzaa is more than a holiday — it’s a living tradition shaped by family, history, and intention.In this Season 2 finale of Cultureful, Jess Lin sits down with Martina to explore Kwanzaa as a living tradition shaped by family, history, and community. Martina reflects on growing up in San Francisco, her family’s roots in the U.S. South, and how her grandmother’s stories influenced her early student activism and relationship with Black identity.Together, they talk about the origins and meaning of Kwanzaa, how Martina celebrates it today as an adult and parent, and why cultural traditions matter in a world that’s constantly changing. This conversation is about heritage, memory, and the ways we create and pass down meaning—across generations and across communities.🎥 Watch the full video version on YouTube: https://youtu.be/O74Z-I7CpMkSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

After our full interview, Joanne and I sat down for a more relaxed conversation — a space to debrief, unwind, and share a few favorite things. In this bonus “Wind Down” episode, Joanne talks about the surprising through-line she discovered while telling her story, from childhood to her work in belonging and organizational coaching today.We also get into lighter moments: perfectionism, Brene Brown, nostalgic foods, the band Elbow, and the places that hold meaning for her — including an unforgettable trip to the Galapagos Islands that brought her to tears.If you enjoy hearing the human side of each guest, their reflections, and a peek behind the interview, you’ll love these Wind Down episodes.Topics in this episode: • Finding unexpected clarity after the main interview • How belonging became central to Joanne’s life and work • Recovering from perfectionism • Favorite books, nostalgic foods, and personal recommendations • Her emotional reaction to seeing the Galapagos Islands • A casual, warm debrief between host and guestListen to Joanne’s full 2 Part interview if you missed it.Connect with Joanne: https://strelogroup.com/about/joanne/Listen to Joanne’s full 2-Part interview if you missed it.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In Part 2 of our conversation, Joanne shares how her STEM journey unfolded in ways she never expected—through academic pressure, nonlinear pivots, surprising mentors, and the slow, intentional work of choosing where she belongs.We talk about what it means to grow up under high expectations, nearly failing out of college, rediscovering purpose through neuroscience and teaching, and the moment she finally said: “I get to choose to belong.”This episode is about identity, resilience, and rewriting your story when the old one no longer fits.Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/Sdxi9CwAUJwIn this episode: • Nonlinear STEM career paths • Academic pressure + nearly failing out • A professor who offered a second chance • Chinese American identity and belonging • Purpose, risk, and choosing your own pathConnect with Joanne: https://strelogroup.com/about/joanne/Keywords: Asian American stories, Chinese American identity, STEM careers, belonging, immigrant family expectations, nonlinear careers, resilience, Cultureful PodcastSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Joanne shares what it was like growing up as one of the only Chinese American kids in a small upstate New York town—and the year her family moved to Taiwan, placing her in a public school during the height of martial law and anti-communist propaganda. In Part 1, she talks about her parents’ refugee journey from mainland China to Taiwan, learning Mandarin and Bopomofo, and navigating identity, belonging, and culture shock across two countries. This episode explores family history, diaspora, growing up between cultures, and the moments that shaped Joanne’s understanding of who she was.Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/1Fcw4aEHxskConnect with Joanne:Strelo Group: https://strelogroup.com/about/joanne/Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanne-chu-strelo/Email: [email protected] Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Join Jess for The Wind Down, a new bonus series from Cultureful — a cross-cultural podcast about how stories shape who we are. In this first ever “after-show,” Jess and Hakim unwind after recording their main episodes to reflect on vulnerability, healing, and the power of storytelling. Hakim shares memories of his grandmother, what “home” means to him, and some of his favorite things — from books and music to nostalgic foods.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Join us on Cultureful as Hakim Asadi, a Black queer therapist from Upstate New York, shares his journey of growing up queer in a religious community. He opens up about the challenges of navigating faith, family expectations, and shame, and how therapy, self-reflection, and community helped him embrace his authentic self.This episode explores:Growing up queer in church and Black communitiesOvercoming internalized shame and stigmaFinding authenticity, resilience, and self-loveHow childhood experiences shaped his career as a therapist and public speakerIf you’re interested in queer experiences, faith, identity, and mental health, this conversation is a must-listen.Connect with Hakim:Website: HakimAsadi.com Email: [email protected]: @hakimasadi_Keywords: queer identity, LGBTQ+ mental health, Black queer therapist, faith and sexuality, overcoming shame, therapy journey, self-love, intersectional identity, queer storiesSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Hakim Asadi, a 35-year-old Black American therapist, reflects on his childhood, family, and community, exploring what it was like growing up between the inner city and suburbs. Host Jess Lin dives into his experiences in the church his grandparents founded, formative family moments, and the influences that shaped his curiosity, values, and identity.This first half of a two-part conversation lays the foundation for Hakim’s journey: love, upbringing, and the people who helped him grow and “beat the statistics.” Part 2 continues with his exploration of his faith, queerness, and authenticity.Connect with Hakim at HakimAsadi.com or [email protected] on YouTube Topics: Black identity, family and community, inner city upbringing, faith and church life, Nation of Islam, recovery and service, Narcotics Anonymous, Alcoholics Anonymous, curiosity, therapy, belonging, authenticity, Cultureful podcast, Jess Lin, Hakim AsadiSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Host Jess Lin continues her conversation with Taryn, a third-generation Mexican American from Northern California. This episode explores cultural identity, heritage language, and how learning traditions like Día de los Muertos can help families reconnect to their roots.Taryn reflects on her parents’ love story, family visits to Mexico, and how her family’s connection to Mexican culture has evolved across generations. Listeners will hear personal stories, insights on volunteering and giving back, plus special musical performances from her father, Ray, and her sister, Lia Rae.With humor, heart, and heritage, this episode highlights the importance of storytelling, cultural transmission, and honoring where we come from.Watch this episode on YouTubeConnect with Taryn's family:Lia Rae on YouTube: @LiaRaeOfficialRay Cadena’s band on Facebook: GroovelineSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In this episode, Jess Lin interviews Taryn, a third-generation Mexican American from Woodland, California and a Returned U.S. Peace Corps Volunteer. Taryn shares powerful stories about her grandparents’ migration from Mexico, their resilience as farmworkers, and the traditions that shaped her family’s life in California’s Central Valley.She reflects on her grandpa Eloy’s journey crossing the border, his time in the Marines, and his role in the Woodland community. On her father’s side, she recalls her grandpa Ramon’s determination as an orphan who built a thriving almond farm and helped start the Davis Farmers Market. Alongside these stories, Taryn remembers her grandmothers’ influence, her parents’ experiences growing up in agricultural towns, and the cultural traditions that continue today.This is Part 1 of 2. Stay tuned for the continuation of Taryn’s story and reflections on identity, culture, and belonging.Watch on Youtube: https://youtu.be/L0I4HrQ9rP4Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In Part 4 of Aisha’s story, we follow her into adulthood as she marries her husband and begins a new chapter back in Pakistan. She shares the culture shock of adjusting to a different city, trying to break glass ceilings, and the challenges of navigating career and motherhood. Aisha also reflects on her identity as a Muslim feminist, how she celebrates Eid, and what it means to find home across cultures and geographies. This episode explores themes of marriage, motherhood, gender roles, Pakistani culture, feminism, and the evolving search for belonging.Full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/LkI_GqB_Ci4Follow Aisha:On Instagram @aishafsarwari and @heart_tantrumsOn X @AishaFSarwariOn Youtube @aishasarwari2134 Her memoir is called Heart Tantrums and Brain Tumours and can be ordered on from Hurst Publishers at https://www.hurstpublishers.com/profile/aisha-sarwari/ Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Episode photo credit: Asher Imtiaz https://www.asherimtiaz.com/In Part 3 of Aisha’s story, we follow her journey through adolescence and young adulthood as she navigates loss, family, and identity. After losing her father during childhood—a central figure in her life and a source of deep love—Aisha grapples with childhood grief, searches for a sense of home, and learns to code-switch between different cultural contexts and varying expressions of Islam across Muslim communities. This episode explores themes of growing up, father-daughter love, childhood bereavement, feminism, belonging, and the complexities of Pakistani American and Muslim identity.Full episode on Youtube: https://youtu.be/nVBFYxkMvPsFollow Aisha:On Instagram @aishafsarwari and @heart_tantrumsOn X @AishaFSarwariOn Youtube @aishasarwari2134 Her memoir is called Heart Tantrums and Brain Tumours and can be ordered on from Hurst Publishers at https://www.hurstpublishers.com/profile/aisha-sarwari/ Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In this second part of our 4-part conversation, Aisha Sarwari shares vivid stories of her childhood in Uganda as the youngest in her family. She recalls her mother sewing dupattas for her and her sister, the blooming dahlias in their garden, and the deep love she felt for her father. Aisha reflects on her lifelong connection to nature, her gratitude for growing up surrounded by it, and what it meant to be a minority in Uganda in the shadow of historical events like the expulsion of Asians. Through her lens as part of the Pakistani diaspora in Africa, Aisha offers a personal glimpse into family bonds, cultural identity, and resilience.Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/PUcwG6PPWHoIf you haven’t listened to Part 1, start there to catch the beginning of Aisha’s story.Follow Aisha:On Instagram @aishafsarwari and @heart_tantrumsOn X @AishaFSarwariOn Youtube @aishasarwari2134 Her memoir is called Heart Tantrums and Brain Tumours and can be ordered on from Hurst Publishers at https://www.hurstpublishers.com/profile/aisha-sarwari/ Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In the Season 2 premiere of Cultureful, host Jess Lin talks with Aisha Sarwari, a 43-year-old Pakistani American women's rights activist, author and public speaker, and corporate communications expert, and public speaker based in Atlanta.Aisha shares about her family’s multi-generational migration story—from India to Uganda and Kenya and eventually to Pakistan and the U.S.—intertwining personal history with major events like India’s Partition and the expulsion of Asians from Uganda. In this episode, she reflects on her parents’ backgrounds and communities.  This is the first of a four-part conversation full of insight, complexity, nuance, and heart.Watch the video on YouTube: https://youtu.be/OpffD_p_NZgFollow Aisha:On Instagram @aishafsarwari https://instagram.com/aishafsarwari  and @heart_tantrums https://instagram.com/heart_tantrumsOn X @AishaFSarwari https://x.com/AishaFSarwariOn Youtube @aishasarwari2134 https://youtube.com/@aishasarwari2134?si=q-4af45REWM201X9 Her memoir is called Heart Tantrums and Brain Tumours and can be ordered on from Hurst Publishers at https://www.hurstpublishers.com/profile/aisha-sarwari/ Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Trailer for Season 2, which drops THIS TUESDAY, July 29th, 2025! Interviews of epic family migration stories, exploring identity and love, and much more.  Spanning cultures, geographies, and intersecting with historical moments like India's partition.Subscribe now and catch new episodes every other Tuesday.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In the Season 1 finale of Cultureful, host Jess Lin talks with Stefanee Clontz, a 44-year-old Filipino and Spanish American working mom and Director of Operations at Hydra+, a medical spa in Atlanta.Stefanee shares what she calls her “Michael Jackson childhood,” her evolving connection to her Asian American identity, and how that connection has grown over time.  She also opens up about the balance of not only work and family, but also finding time for herself.Thanks for listening to Season 1. Stay tuned—Season 2 is coming soon.Watch the video on Youtube https://youtu.be/WL2T5pvHkt8Follow Stefanee on instagram @stefaneeclontz or Hydra+ @thehydraplusHer podcast is called “Does this Podcast Make Me Sound Fat”Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Join Jess Lin in Part 2 of her conversation with Denetra, as they discuss her son DeAndre's life journey from high school graduation to battling cancer. Denetra opens up about DeAndre's work and love life, his fight with osteosarcoma, and the impacts of his illness. She also shares her own experience with grief, healing, and how she channels her energy into projects like Smiley Connections LLC to support other parents who have lost children. Listen to Denetra's story and learn about her efforts to pass a bill for more bereavement leave in Georgia, as well as her dream of organizing a healing retreat for grieving parents.Watch this podcast on Youtube:       https://youtu.be/mueMkRh8YPkFind out more about Denetra’s work:       https://smileyconnectionsllc.org/Donate to the On the Road to Healing Retreat:      https://gofund.me/0899b5e4Denetra's TikTok: smileyconnectionsllcDenetra's Instagram: @smileyconnectionsIn loving memory of DeAndre ThompsonSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In honor of Women's History Month, host Jess Lin sits down with Denetra Smiley, a 54-year-old African American medical coder from the Gullah Geechee community, now living in Acworth, Georgia. Denetra shares her personal story, her son DeAndre's story, and her path through grief and healing after DeAndre’s passed from cancer.  Denetra speaks candidly about her childhood, the importance of her cultural roots, the example of her parents’ marriage, her experiences raising two sons, and the founding of her support group- Parents who have lost a child/children support group on Facebook, and her business: Smiley Connections LLC, which assists parents who have lost a child. This is part one of a two-part conversation, with the second part dropping next week. Watch the video recording on YouTube, along with shared photos for a more immersive experience.Watch this podcast on Youtube:       https://youtu.be/e1w5YTYnrE0?si=22UgQ0YZaT4SmFPnFind out more about Denetra’s work:       https://smileyconnectionsllc.org/Donate to the On the Road to Healing Retreat:      https://gofund.me/0899b5e4Denetra's TikTok: smileyconnectionsllcDenetra's Instagram: @smileyconnectionsIn loving memory of DeAndre ThompsonSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In this episode of Cultureful, host Jess Lin continues her conversation with Tina, exploring her experience with intercultural marriage and raising multicultural children. Tina, a Taiwanese Chinese American woman, discusses the cultural differences between her upbringing and her Russian Ukrainian American husband's family. The episode covers how Tina navigated these differences, the challenges of blending their cultural backgrounds, and their parenting styles, which focus on positive discipline, financial literacy, and fostering a love of learning. Tina also shares insights into her family's daily routines, the influence of grandparents, and their efforts to maintain cultural heritage through language and traditions. The episode concludes with Tina's aspirations for urban homesteading and her hopes for creating a compassionate and empathetic world.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

In this special bonus episode of Cultureful, host Jess Lin speaks with Tina, a 37-year-old Taiwanese Chinese American tech project manager from Fremont, California. The episode delves into the first half of Tina's life, covering her parents' immigration story from Taiwan, her upbringing, and the background of her family. Tina shares insights about her family's moves from China to Vietnam to Taiwan and eventually to the U.S., and discusses how her parents' cultural backgrounds influenced their lives and hers. The episode also touches on Tina's childhood, her experiences in school, navigating cultural differences, and her relationship with her parents. The conversation sets the stage for the second half of the interview, which will focus on Tina's intercultural marriage and raising her three multicultural children.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Esta entrevista fue grabada en octubre de 2023. En este capítulo, entrevisto a mi amiga Angie G. de Colombia. Ella es abogada y lingüista, actualmente está en un programa de doctorado cerca de San Francisco que combina sus dos carreras para hacer el lenguaje legal más accesible á la gente del común.Mientras se acerca su cumpleaños 40, reflexiona en su vida. Hablamos de su ciudad natal, niñez, viaje personal y profesional, también proyectos nuevos que empieza en su nuevo capítulo de vida.  Espero que lo disfruten.¡Gracias por escucharnos! Conéctate con nosotros en Instagram @thecultureful.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

This episode was originally recorded in Spanish in October 2023.  Para la versión original de este episodio, que fue grabada en español, regresa al feed y haz clic en el título en español. To share this content with more people, this English version was created with AI tools like Eleven Labs.  Though there may be differences in tone and delivery, we hope the message still resonates.  In this episode, I interview my friend Angie G. from Colombia. She is a lawyer and linguist, currently in a PhD program in Northern California that combines her two careers to make legal language more accessible to the general public.As her 40th birthday approached, she reflected on her life. We talked about her hometown, childhood, personal and professional journeys, and also current projects in this new chapter of her life.  This interview was both insightful and vulnerable.Thank you for listening!  Connect with us on Instagram @thecultureful.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Keywordsmilitary service, Iraq, personal growth, travel, advice for youth, military experiences, career transitions, life lessons, personal development, military cultureSummaryIn this conversation, Tonisha shares her journey into the military, detailing her enlistment, experiences in Iraq, and the challenges she faced during her service. She reflects on her decision to leave the military, the lessons learned, and offers advice to young people considering military service. Additionally, she discusses her current projects and aspirations, emphasizing personal growth and the importance of making informed choices.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Keywordsidentity, heritage, family stories, military aspirations, Black woman in the military, genealogy, cultural identity, personal history, military experiences, representationSummaryTonisha, 42, explores her identity as a Black American and the rich cultural heritage of her family. She recounts fascinating stories about her grandfather, who influenced her aspirations to join the military. Tonisha reflects on her early career choices, the challenges she faced as a Black woman in a male-dominated military environment, and the importance of representation in various fields. Through her experiences, she highlights the complexities of identity, family history, and the impact of personal narratives on career paths.Check out Tonisha’s current work on plant care on Instagram @the.plantnanny and connect with her.Chapters00:00 Welcome and Introduction03:13 Ethnic Identity, Family Stories, and Genealogy05:26 Grandpa's Roots09:34 Memories with Grandpa12:29 Military Influence on Childhood16:32 Impact of Kid-Friendly Military Stories20:28 Talking About Military with Younger Generation21:22 Community Respect for Grandpa22:11 Influence of Stories on Mother and Her Encouragement to Enlist24:30 Describing Grandpa27:08 Childhood Dreams28:25 Lack of Representation and Its Impact30:48 High School, the ASVAP, and Military Enlistment35:30 Becoming a Cop in the Air Force37:26 Challenges of Being a Black Female Cop39:47 Camaraderie and Dynamics in the Military44:30 Branch Rivalries and Military Culture47:16 Outro and ConclusionSupport the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

This interview was recorded on June 1, 2022.Steve is a 36 year-old photographer who lives in New York City.  He was born in China, raised in Italy, and now lives in the United States.  He takes us through his early dating history, reflects on challenges he faced as an Asian male, and shares observations and what he learned along the way.Check out Steve’s photography at Stevegongphoto.com and follow him on instagram @stevegong.If you are interested in a follow-up part two episode with Steve, please send us a message on instagram @thecultureful to let us know.  And, feel free to send any questions you would like included in the interview.Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

This interview was recorded on May 27, 2022.Sheng is a Taiwanese American from Monterey Park, California who takes on an uncommon career path for Asian Americans and becomes a hockey reporter covering the San Jose Sharks.  He shares about his childhood, how his love of sports started early, and his career path.  He also reflects on what it was like to be in spaces where he often is the only Asian American in the room.  Sheng Peng is the Editor-in-Chief of San Jose Hockey Now at www.sanjosehockeynow.com and hosts the San Jose Hockey Now podcast.  He has also appeared in VICE Sports, NBC Asian America, The Hockey News, and is a PHWA member.  Follow him on Twitter @Sheng_Peng. Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

Segolene is a 35-year-old French American Hollywood executive and entrepreneur  who grew up in California and Texas and now lives in Los Angeles.  She reflects on growing up in a French household in the U.S. and navigating two cultures and languages for school, friendship, dating, work, and more.You can support Segolene's business at Mygreengifts.com for ecofriendly gifts and party hosting supplies. Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!

This is the trailer for the podcast.  Here's the transcript!Cultureful (Trailer)Jess: [00:00:00] Dear listener, hi, I'm Jess. I'm a Taiwanese American, my husband is Sri Lankan Tamil, I'm multilingual, and I'm very interested in culture. I am particularly interested in how people like you and me from different backgrounds and places live their lives. I love hearing about firsthand experiences. In my 20s and early 30s, I had the privilege to live abroad for over seven years in many places ranging from a rural village in Luapula, Zambia, to busy metropolitan Bangkok, from a small town in Honduras, to a port city in Morocco. One of my favorite things to do is to get to know people, to learn about places and cultures through its people, one on one, up close. It challenges stereotypes and biases I didn't know I had.And it's just fun. I enjoy meeting people and hearing their stories, and they fascinate me, and I have lots of questions. I [00:01:00] also love up close conversations about people's lives because it gets me outside my own culture, my own assumptions about how a life should be. It reminds me that there are many ways we can go about our human existence and spend our time on this planet.So I'm starting a podcast. It's called Cultureful. I interview friends and other guests from around the world about personal experiences. Sometimes we talk about major life events and stages like childhood, dating, weddings, parenting, and immigration journeys. But we also talk about the everyday. I'm curious about what people cook, what they do for fun, what friendship is like for them.These things that make up a life are what I love about culture. If this is the kind of thing you enjoy, check out the podcast. Cultureful. Living, breathing, everyday, you and me culture. It's a kind of traveling. You can find it wherever you get your podcasts. It's just getting [00:02:00] started, so subscribe to support and find out when new episodes drop.It's also on Instagram @thecultureful. Thanks and hope you give it a listen. Support the showConnect with us on Instagram: @thecultureful Website: https://linktr.ee/culturefulCultureful—Culture-F-U-L like beautiful.Thanks for being here!