PODCAST · tv
United By Rice
by United By Rice
Welcome to United By Rice—the Podcast! At United By Rice, we celebrate the power of storytelling and the voices that bring our culture to life. As an online magazine dedicated to uplifting AANHPI talent in film, television and other mediums, we shine a spotlight on the creators, actors, and narratives reshaping the industry.Co-hosted by actress Junko Goda and TV/Film critic and interviewer Ben Lei
Episodes
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S2E11 | The TIFF Episode - What AAPI Projects Were We Excited About?
Better late than never? No guests this week but instead, Ben takes us behind the scenes of the 2026 Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), sharing his experiences covering one of the world's biggest film festivals and breaking down some of the Asian and Asian American films that caught his...
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S2E10 | Brittany Ishibashi Discusses Her Role on the New Buddy Show "Brothers" Starring Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey
Brittany Ishibashi joins United by Rice to talk about her role as Joy in the new Apple TV series “Brothers,” starring Woody Harrelson and Matthew McConaughey. Ishibashi takes us inside the unusual premise of the series, inspired by the real-life rumor that Harrelson and McConaughey might actually...
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S2E09 | Alfred Hsing Takes Us Inside “The Odyssey” and the World of “Avatar”
Actor, stunt performer, martial artist and filmmaker Alfred Hsing joins Ben Lei and Junko Goda on “United By Rice” to talk about a career that has taken him from martial arts competitions to some of Hollywood’s most ambitious productions. Alfred takes us behind the scenes of Christopher Nolan’s...
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S2E08 | Leonardo Nam - The Mad Hatter in Disney's The Descendants
This episode of United by Rice dives into a warm, wide-ranging conversation with actor Leonardo Nam, covering his breakout roles in Westworld and Fast & Furious: Tokyo Drift, and his surprising first time singing on screen in Disney’s Descendants: Wicked Wonderland, and his journey into producing...
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S2E07 | Emmy Nominee Charles Melton on "Beef: Season 2," Self-Doubt and Finding Austin
Emmy-nominated actor Charles Melton joins United By Rice to talk about stepping into Season 2 of Netflix’s "Beef" and why creator Sonny Lee knew he wanted Melton for Austin after seeing his performance in "May December." Melton, currently nominated for an Emmy for Outstanding Supporting Actor in…
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S2E06 | Christian Vunipola Joins Us To Discuss His Breakthrough Role in "Masters of the Universe"
This week on United By Rice, Ben Lei and Junko Goda sit down with actor Christian Vunipola, who stars as Hussein, the loyal best friend of Adam (He-Man) in Amazon MGM Studios' highly anticipated "Masters of the Universe." Christian shares how he broke into Hollywood, the surreal experience of...
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S2E05 | Costume Designer Vera Chow on Dressing Up the Hong Kong Elite for "The Season"
Costume designer Vera Chow joins United By Rice for one of our funniest and most candid conversations yet, calling in from Atlanta while working on Justin Chon's upcoming film "Tommy Karate." From dressing Hong Kong's elite in "The Season" to navigating Georgia's brutal summer humidity on set…
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S2E04 | Amanda Zhou Takes on Joo Dee in "Avatar: The Last Airbender" Season 2
This week on United By Rice, Ben and Junko catch up on one of the biggest weekends in pop culture as they recap Anime Expo, discuss how conventions like San Diego Comic-Con continue to evolve, and explore the latest trends shaping entertainment. The conversation ranges from Anime Expo's...
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S2E03 | Gabriel Prevost-Takahashi on His Roles in "Avatar: The Last Airbender" and "Voicemails for Isabelle"
In this episode of "United By Rice," Ben and Junko sit down with rising actor Gabriel Prevost-Takahashi to discuss his remarkable journey from being discovered on the streets of Japan to landing major roles in two of Netflix's biggest projects: "Avatar: The Last Airbender" Season 2 and "Voices…
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S2E02 | Yvonne Chapman | "The Season," "Avatar" & Breaking Boundaries; Bonus Interview with Chris Pang and Justin Chien
Yvonne Chapman on "Avatar: The Last Airbender" Season 2, "The Season" & AANHPI Representation | United By Rice Podcast Yvonne Chapman is having a major moment. With Netflix's highly anticipated second season of "Avatar: The Last Airbender" on the horizon and Hulu's stylish new drama "The Season"...
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S2E01: The Cast of "Deli Boys" Season 2 - Asif Ali, Saagar Shaikh, Poorna Jagannathan, Fred Armisen and Showrunner Michelle Nader
After a brief hiatus, United By Rice returns for Season 2 with a hilarious and insightful conversation featuring the stars and creative team behind Hulu's acclaimed comedy "Deli Boys" also kicking off their second season! Joining us for the season premiere are returning cast members Asif Ali,...
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162 - Poppy Liu Talks About Her New Film "I Love Boosters" Opening May 22!
On this episode of “United By Rice,” Ben and Junko are joined by Poppy Liu to discuss her standout role as Jianhu in I Love Boosters, the latest film from visionary filmmaker Boots Riley, which opens in theaters May 22. Known for blending sharp social commentary with surreal humor, Riley’s newest...
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161 - "Forge" Director/Writer Jing Ai Ng and Actor Andie Ju
On this episode of “United By Rice,” Ben and Junko sit down with filmmaker Jing Ai Ng and actress Andie Ju to discuss their stylish new crime drama “Forge,” which opened in limited release this past weekend. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Miami’s art world, “Forge” follows a young Chinese...
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160 - Chin Han, Shan Tsung in Mortal Kombat 2
Join us as Ben and Junko chat with Chin Han, whose career spans Hollywood blockbusters, iconic franchises, and influential storytelling. In this episode, he shares insights into his roles, the evolution of Asian representation in Hollywood, and his personal connection to projects like Mortal…
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159 - Adeline Rudolph, Kitana in Mortal Kombat 2
Junko and Ben chat with Adeline Rudolph, who shares her incredible journey from childhood in Hong Kong to starring as the iconic Kitana. Discover how her mixed Korean and German heritage, early modeling years, and deep dive into video game lore shaped her portrayal of a fierce princess with a…
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158 - Grace Yun, production designer of BEEF
The podcast episode dives into Season 2 of the Netflix series "Beef" with guest Grace Yun, the production designer. The discussion highlights the evolution from Season 1, focusing on the enhanced complexity of sets and the introduction of Korean cultural elements. Grace shares insights into the...
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157 - Narumi Inatsugu, JoySauce Chief Creative Officer
Explore the dynamic world of Asian American entertainment and media innovation. Discover how platforms like JoySauce are reshaping Asian narratives and celebrating cultural milestones like the Critics' Choice Asian American Luncheon. This episode features Narumi Inatsugu, chief creative officer…
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156 - Ben Wang, Randall Park and Peyton Elizabeth Lee Discuss Their New Film "Brian" After The Premiere at SXSW
This week on United By Rice, Ben and Junko are joined by rising star Ben Wang alongside Randall Park and Peyton Elizabeth Lee, fresh off the world premiere of their new film “Brian” at SXSW. The conversation dives into the chaos and excitement of SXSW, where indie films fight for attention in an...
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155 - Actress Hojo Shin Discusses Her Expanded Role on the New Season of "XO, Kitty" Which Launches on April 2nd!
In this episode of United By Rice, we sit down with rising talent Hojo Shin, who stars as Jiwon in the latest season of XO, Kitty. Shin opens up about her journey as an actor, from her early training to finding her voice in an increasingly global industry. We dive into her experience stepping…
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154 - Actress Julia Rehwald from the New Season of Netflix's "One Piece" Joins to Discuss Her Portrayal of Tashigi
In this episode of United By Rice, Junko and Ben sit down with Julia Rehwald ahead of her highly anticipated debut as Tashigi in Season 2 of Netflix’s “One Piece: Into the Grand Line,” premiering March 10. A record-breaking global phenomenon with over 500 million manga copies sold and a massive,...
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153 - Takashi Cheng, CEO of Golden.tv Gets Us Excited to Watch The 23rd Annual Unforgettable Awards Featuring Bowen Yang, Chloe Zhao, the Kpop Demon Hunters and More!
In Episode 53 of United By Rice, Ben and Junko reflect on one of the most meaningful nights in Asian American entertainment: the Unforgettable Awards. Before the interview, the hosts discuss the history and significance of the ceremony and why it has remained one of the most important…
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152 - Actress Shirley Chen Discusses Her Bold New Film "Slanted" That Hits Theaters March 13th
In this episode of United By Rice, hosts Junko and Ben continue their conversation around the buzzworthy film "Slanted" with its breakout star, Shirley Chen. Following earlier discussion with director Amy Wang, Shirley joins the show to reflect on her own path as a young actor navigating…
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151 - Director Amy Wang Joins UBR To Discuss Her New Film "Slanted"
In this episode of United By Rice, Ben and Junko welcome filmmaker Amy Wang, the writer and director behind the bold new film “Slanted.” Before Amy joins the show, Ben and Junko discuss the film’s powerful premise and why it has sparked so much conversation. Blending satire, sci-fi, and body...
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150 - Jessica Henwick Joins Us For Our 50th Episode and Talks About Her New Film "How to Make a Killing"
Episode 50 of United By Rice features an incredible guest: Jessica Henwick. Before the interview, hosts Ben and Junko reflect on Henwick’s memorable career, from “Game of Thrones” and Marvel’s “Iron Fist” to standout turns in “Knives Out” and beyond. They also preview the upcoming Unforgettable...
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149 - Directors Geeta Gandbhir and Christalyn Hampton Discuss Their Oscar-nominated Films "The Devil Is Busy" and "The Perfect Neighbor"
In this episode of United By Rice, Junko and Ben kick things off by reflecting on the just-concluded Winter Olympics — the moments that moved them, the athletes who broke through, and what global competition reveals about identity, pressure, and belonging. From there, they turn to two powerful...
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148 - Nick Pugliese from "School Spirits" Talks Identity and What's Coming in Season 3
In this episode of United By Rice, hosts Ben and Junko sit down with Nick Pugliese, who stars as Charlie in Paramount+’s “School Spirits,” the supernatural teen drama blending ghostly mystery with deeply human themes of grief, friendship, and self-discovery. Nick opens up about Charlie’s…
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147 - Will Yun Lee and James Takata Discuss Their New Film "California Scenario" Before the World Premiere at SBIFF on February 7
Just ahead of the world premiere of “California Scenario” at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Junko and Ben sit down with star Will Yun Lee and director James Takata to explore a film that is as intimate as it is quietly profound. At its core, “California Scenario” is a...
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146 - Simu Liu Joins to Discuss His New Show "The Copenhagen Test" Now on Peacock
Junko and Ben kick off 2026 by breaking down one of the year’s most intriguing new thrillers, “The Copenhagen Test.” They unpack the show’s high-concept premise, its unnerving relevance to our current moment, and what it means to see Simu Liu leading a modern espionage series as Alexander Hale....
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145 - Legend Lucy Liu and Director Eric Lin Discuss Their Powerful New Film "Rosemead"
On the 45th episode of United By Rice, Junko and Ben are joined by Lucy Liu and director Eric Lin in separate conversations to celebrate the release of the acclaimed new film "Rosemead." Inspired by a true story, the film takes an unflinching yet deeply empathetic look at mental health, family…
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144 - "Rosemead" and "The Copenhagen Test" Writer Marilyn Fu
Junko and Ben dive into a fun conversation with screenwriter Marilyn Fu as she discusses her latest film, "Rosemead," which explores themes of mental health and the immigrant experience. She reflects on her journey in the film industry, the significance of Lucy Liu's role, and the emotional depth...
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143 - Rachel Michiko Whitney on Her Festival Darling " Yonsei"
In our final United By Rice episode of 2025, Junko and Ben celebrate the year by looking back on some of their favorite moments from the first 42 episodes of the podcast before welcoming filmmaker Rachel Michiko Whitney to discuss her powerful new film, "Yonsei." Rachel opens up about exploring...
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142 - Sue Chan and Her World-Building for Apple TV's Newest Hit
In this episode of United by Rice, Ben interview's Sue Chan, the production designer for Apple TV's "Murderbot." They discuss Sue's journey from architecture to production design, the creative process behind "Murderbot," and the importance of research and collaboration in building the show's…
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141 - Dom Magwili, Author of Scientific Dragons and Actor
In this engaging conversation, Dom Magwili shares his journey as an actor, author, and educator, highlighting the evolution of Asian American representation in the arts. He discusses the significance of East West Players in fostering talent and the impact of awards on visibility for Asian…
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140 - Glenn Kaino, Director of "Hoops, Hopes & Dreams" Discusses How MLK Jr. Played Hoops With Fellow Activists to Ignite Community Action
A congested Junko and Ben discuss "No Other Choice" and the potential acquisition of Warner Bros. by Netflix before welcoming Glenn Kaino, Director of Oscar-eligible Documentary Short, "Hoops, Hopes & Dreams". In this engaging conversation, Glenn Kaino discusses his documentary which explores the...
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139 - SF Chef Kathy Fang Feeds Our Host Ben and Talks About the Story Behind "House of Nanking"
In this very special episode, just in time for Thanksgiving, Chef Kathy Fang, of famed restaurants "House of Nanking" and "Fang" in San Francisco, shares the stories behind the book and recipes of her new cookbook "House of Nanking". For the first time, United By Rice shot on site at "Fang" where...
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138 - "Rental Family" Stars Mari Yamamoto and Takehiro Hira
It's "Rental Family" release day! Looking for a movie to watch in the theaters this weekend that is nice bubbly and broomsticks, go watch "Rental Family" by Hikari! Our guests (in separate interviews) Mari Yamamoto (Pachinko) and Takehiro Hira (Shogun) discuss the film, tell us what person they...
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137 - Director Nisha Ganatra and "Freakier Friday" (Now available on Disney +)
In this engaging conversation, filmmaker Nisha Ganatra discusses her latest project, Freakier Friday, and its significance for Asian American representation in Hollywood. She shares insights into her experiences directing the film, working with stars like Jamie Lee Curtis and Lindsay Lohan, and…
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136 - Sky Yang, Radhika Apte and Ken Leung Discuss Justin Lin's "Last Days"
In this episode, Junko and Ben dive into the impact of the film "Better Luck Tomorrow" by Justin Lin and the anticipation behind his newest indie, "Last Days". Members of the cast then join to discuss their experience working on the film and the empathetic approach to the telling of John Allen...
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135 - Shioli Kutsuna Talks "Invasion"; Junko and Ben recap NYCC
In time for Apple TV +'s "Invasion" Season 3 Finale, the lovely and talented Shioli Kutsuna, who plays Mitsuki, joins the pod to discuss her experience on the show and her character's arc over the past three seasons. Junko and Ben highlight their experiences from the recent New York Comic Con...
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134 - EJAE (Rumi) from "KPop Demon Hunters"
Fresh off their Saturday Night Live debut and just before their Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon performance, United By Rice sits down with one of the hottest names in entertainment — Ejae, star of "KPop Demon Hunters." In this special episode, hosts Junko and Ben break down the phenomenon...
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133 - Mary Tamura & Christine Chen - Yokai the Series
In this episode of United by Rice, hosts Junko Goda and Ben Lei talk with filmmakers Mary Tamura and Christine W. Chen to discuss their project, "Yokai the series". The conversation explores the journey of creating a unique fantasy series that blends Japanese folklore with modern storytelling.…
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132 - Nhut Le of "Peacemaker"
In this episode, hosts Junko and Ben welcome special guest Nhut Le, known for his role as Judo Master in the hit show Peacemaker. They discuss Nhut's journey to landing the role, the impact of representation in Hollywood, and the evolution of roles for Asian actors. Nhut shares his experiences…
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131 - Jona Xiao on Becoming Iron Fist in "Eyes of Wakanda"
In this episode, Junko and Ben interview Jona Xiao, the voice of the first female Iron Fist in Marvel's 'Eyes of Wakanda.' They discuss Jona's journey into voice acting, her research into the Iron Fist character, the significance of representation in media, and her experiences as a female...
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130 - Abigail Hing Wen, Author of "The Vale"
Junko and Ben interview acclaimed author Abigail Hing Wen who is paving the way for Asian American authors writing for young adult and teen audiences. Before the interview plays, Junko and Ben discuss their memories of college mates going to "Loveboat" and recent comments made by Daniel Dae Kim…
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129 - Johnny Han, VFX supervisor of "The Penguin"
In this episode, Johnny Han, the Emmy-nominated VFX supervisor for "The Penguin," shares insights into his journey in the visual effects industry, his experiences working on HBO's 'The Nevers' and 'The Penguin', and the challenges of creating compelling visual narratives. Johnny shares insights…
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128 - Helen Huang & Crafting Iconic Looks for 'The Penguin'
Costume designer Helen Huang discusses her Emmy-nominated work on The Penguin, a show set in the Batman universe. She shares her journey to becoming involved with the project, her design philosophy, and the challenges of costuming Colin Farrell. The conversation also touches on character...
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127 - Jackie Dallas & Breaking Barriers in Entertainment
Jackie Dallas shares her experiences working on the Netflix series 'Hunting Wives,' discussing the themes of cultural identity and representation in the entertainment industry. She reflects on her journey from auditions to landing a significant role, the impact of transitioning from Stars to...
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126 - Te Ao o Hinepehinga of "Chief of War"
In this engaging conversation, Junko and Ben interview Te Ao O Hinepehinga, also known as Tea, a rising star who can be seen in the latest Apple TV series 'Chief of War.' Tea shares her journey from growing up in a traditional Māori village to discovering her passion for acting. The discussion...
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125 - Former Import Model Kaila Yu on her new book "Fetishized"
In this engaging conversation with Junko and Ben, Kaila Yu shares her multifaceted journey from being an import model, a musician and now an author with her new book, "Fetishized", hitting bookstores August 19th. The discussion delves into the complexities of Asian fetishism, the evolution of…
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124 - Celia Au & The Journey of 'Last Call'
In this episode, Junko and Ben welcome actress and producer Celia Au, known for her work in the short film film 'Last Call'. They discuss Celia's journey from growing up in a video store to pursuing a career in acting, her experiences during the pandemic, and the evolution of 'Last Call'. The...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
Welcome to United By Rice—the Podcast! At United By Rice, we celebrate the power of storytelling and the voices that bring our culture to life. As an online magazine dedicated to uplifting AANHPI talent in film, television and other mediums, we shine a spotlight on the creators, actors, and narratives reshaping the industry.Co-hosted by actress Junko Goda and TV/Film critic and interviewer Ben Lei
HOSTED BY
United By Rice
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does United By Rice have?
United By Rice currently has 73 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is United By Rice about?
Welcome to United By Rice—the Podcast! At United By Rice, we celebrate the power of storytelling and the voices that bring our culture to life. As an online magazine dedicated to uplifting AANHPI talent in film, television and other mediums, we shine a spotlight on the creators, actors, and...
How often does United By Rice release new episodes?
United By Rice has 73 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to United By Rice?
You can listen to United By Rice on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts United By Rice?
United By Rice is created and hosted by United By Rice.
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