Yin & Young Podcast

In this episode we're joined by my good college friend Nick Louie. We met as actors in the UCSD Theatre program, and were both part of the first UCSD Asian American Theater Festival. Since then Nick, has continued to perform in theater while also expanding his professional career in finance. During this time he got married and became a father. What's great about Nick is that he thinks very deeply and acts with intent in the different areas of his life, whether its acting, his marriage, as well as fatherhood. This was a great chance for myself (James), at the time of recording an expecting father, to hear from him what it means to be a father, and also to get Dan's perspective. This was a particularly important episode for me to chat with two Asian American men who are already fathers and it gets emotional as I recall my own father. We chat about what it means to be a new dad and how to balance passions/hobbies while also working together with your partner to raise children. I hope you enjoy this episode as much as we all had recording it. Thank you. - James Timestamps: 00:00:00 Intro. Snow in Japan. Expected due dates for births. 00:06:21 Nick's background: Bay Area, UCSD, acting & career, marriage, fatherhood. 00:16:06 Balancing hobbies and passions with relationships and family obligations. 00:25:25 Getting to know your partner before marriage: dating, living together, premarital counseling. 00:34:08 Different views on marriage (love vs pragmatism). Talking with your partner about having kids. Compromises. 00:47:06 Timeline from marriage to pregnancy. 00:52:57 Advice to soon-to-be fathers about the birthing process. 01:00:17 Sleep deprivation, sleep training, co-sleeping, feeding schedules. 01:05:58 Paternity leave, work culture, and social safety nets around the world. Society can make it hard to have kids. 01:18:08 Values you want to teach your kids. 01:27:15 Staying Balanced: James - Walks, physical therapy Nick - Working on long term goals, teaching empathy Dan - Kung fu (when not injured) 01:32:39 Language Corner: * Japanese 親しき仲にも礼儀あり shitashiki naka nimo reigi ari Even between close friends (or family), proper manners and respect are still important. 母乳 bo nyū Breastmilk * Key takeaway from "How to Be Perfect": Try your best and reflect. Works Mentioned: * A Christmas Carol by Charles Dickens, a Silicon Valley Shakespeare theater production starring Nick Louie https://www.svshakespeare.org/carol * City Walk - Directed by James Y. Shih. Starring Kristine Gerolaga, Nick Louie https://vimeo.com/78450663 * How to Be Perfect by Michael Schur (creator of "The Good Place") * Twelve Hours' Sleep by Twelve Weeks Old by Suzy Giordano, Lisa Abidin * The Birth Partner by Penny Simkin Note: Auto transcription was used (MacWhisper), so there may be errors in the transcript. — Follow and connect with us on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast If you enjoyed this episode, please Like and Subscribe! Inquiries: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Hope everyone had an amazing Thanksgiving! What a better way to enter the holiday season than to discuss with my ol’ college friend Matthew Maybeno how artificial intelligence will take away all our jobs (or not). It was great to reconnect with Matt and to see how he’s moved from biology into the tech space and thrived. His conversation with Dan and I is a great primer in understanding these new technologies and how to make better use of them. Dan also raises good questions about hallucinations and privacy concerns. Matt and I also reminisce about our dorm days and using high speed internet for educational purposes : ). Enjoy! - James Highlights 00:00:06 Intro. Disclaimer: Large shifts in the field since recording earlier this year, but key principles remain the same. 00:02:08 Matt’s use cases for artificial intelligence (AI) and his preferred Large Language Models (LLMs). 00:08:40 AI hallucinations. 00:11:23 Zero-shot prompting (get it right the first try), LLMs: subjective experience and training. 00:16:34 Pluses and minuses to different types of prompting. 00:21:49 Using AI as a tool to be more productive. 00:26:39 Matt’s early interests, working in biology, overcoming frustrations with math, now in the tech space. 00:45:10 Early internet memories: DC++, dorm networks, IRC, and the suite mate with a terabyte of adult videos. 00:48:28 What is intelligence? Consciousness? 00:55:46 Human-like AIs, Sci-fi parallels: Ex Machina, Cylons. 01:03:25 Defining AI, machine learning (ML), natural language processing (NLP) in simple terms. 01:07:32 Explaining LLMs 01:15:02 How to survive in an AI-driven world. 01:33:26 What are weights in AI. Current risks in AI: the weights used by humans to create malicious AI, jailbreaks, security threats. Potential existential risks (à la Terminator, The Matrix, etc…). 01:43:44 Language Corner: Japanese: 進化（shinka）- evolution English (GenAlpha slang): glazed - favored, skibidi - weird, odd Taunting phrases: Japanese - そーそーみーみー (sō sō mī mī), にゃー (nyah) cat sound. English - nananabooboo (trademarked by Matt’s daughter) Spanish - Lero lero, candelero (sucks to be you) 01:48:28 Staying balanced: marathon experiences, running, indoor soccer, Kung Fu forms (horse bench). Closing remarks. Article/Movies/Show referenced: - Ted Chiang’s “Why A.I. Isn’t Going to Make Art”: https://www.newyorker.com/culture/the-weekend-essay/why-ai-isnt-going-to-make-art - Ex Machina: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0470752/ - Her: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt1798709/ - The Matrix: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0133093/ - Terminator: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0088247/ - Battlestar Galactica: https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0407362/ Note about the transcript/subtitles: AI transcription (Adobe Premiere) was used, so there may be errors. Follow and connect with us on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe. It helps us continue doing this podcast and reach more people. Thank you! Inquiries: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Looking back at these past eight years of Yin & Young, we have grown so much. In this episode we reflect back on what has changed and what has stayed the same—exploring the past, how it informs the present, and how we might move into the future. Thank you everyone for these past eight years! Highlights: 00:00:00 Intro: Taking a look back at 8 years of Yin & Young, starting in 2016. 00:01:45 Trump back in office and Trump supporters (people we know). Episode 2: Election Blues was recorded and posted shortly after Trump was inaugurated for his first term. 00:09:33 The rights of private companies, Elon Musk, and free speech. 00:15:47 Politics: Tariffs, how to reach young men, campaign messaging (Trump, Warren, Yang), and lessons from Star Trek. 00:27:48 The bird singing is James' pet Java sparrow Ming Ming. 00:28:27 Healthcare, taxes, individualism (U.S.) vs collectivism (Japan). 00:35:01 Causes of death U.S. vs Japan vs World. 00:40:50 Looking back at past episodes: a shift in tone from casual dating to how to maintain a relationship. 00:44:04 How to deal with boredom and doubt in a relationship. 00:47:03 Episode 20: Seng Chen: "I want to hear myself when I suffer." 00:51:41 My Own Worst Enemy - getting in your own way, sexual regret, and being better. 00:55:34 Episode 36: Don't just settle. Where James was and where he is now. 00:57:59 Discussed our most popular episode so far, Episode 28 with Teo Yoo. Also chatted about movies and musicals (Past Lives, Wicked, The South Park Movie, Book of Mormon). 01:04:02 Reflecting on Yin & Young the Podcast so far. 01:06:44 Martial Arts: Choy Li Fut, Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Taichi, Baji. Exercises: Yi Jin Jing, Zhan Zhuang. 01:09:54 *Correction: Yi Jin Jing (易筋經) is linked to Bodhidharma, not the Book of Changes (I Ching 易經). 01:14:04 Outro: What matters. Follow and connect with us on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast If you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe. It helps us continue doing this podcast and reach more people. Thank you! Inquiries: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

In this episode of Yin & Young, we chat with Gabriel Toya-Meléndez, an LA-based filmmaker of Puerto Rican and Japanese heritage. Gabriel shares with us his experiences growing up in San Francisco vs Florida, how he got into filmmaking, and how he navigates difference spaces as someone with a mixed background. Gabriel’s links: - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/japorican1/ - “Han” - Short film (Gabriel was the Director of Photography and Editor): https://www.amazon.com/gp/video/detail/B08CZ4J3GP/ref=atv_dp_share_cu_r Highlights: 00:00:00 Introductions and discussion of Gabriel's background: of Japanese and Puerto Rican descent, grew up in San Francisco and Florida, his exposure to both his Japanese and Puerto Rican heritage. 00:05:53 Conservatism in Japanese Americans post WWII. Dad was trying to figure out his identity growing up. 00:07:33 Cultural heritage passed down through food and cooking. 00:09:47 Background on Gabriel’s Japanese grandparents and their relationship. 00:15:01 Gabriel and James share stories about the reluctance of their grandparents generation to talk about WWII. 00:18:11 Connecting to his Puerto Rican heritage through Spanish. 00:20:13 Contrasted his time between Florida and California: in Florida, felt his ethnicity and race was highlighted even more. 00:24:55 Making friends through similar interests: broadcasting, filmmaking. Issues being the token “Asian,” Puerto Rican heritage being disregarded. 00:29:45:13 Florida's different communities and cultural pockets. 00:32:45:21 Tokenization and coming into your own identity. 00:35:35:08 Answering the "where are you from?" question. 00:37:40:09 First steps into filmmaking. 00:42:43:19 Life after college: looking for work in film production. 00:45:26:04 Figuring out what he wants to do in film. 00:49:18:03 Thoughts on film school. 00:52:52:04 Film set life. 00:54:14:13 Gabe moves to LA and reconnects with filmmaking thanks to James. 00:57:36:06 Advice for those that want to pursue filmmaking. 00:58:58:08 The filming process for the short film "Han" (link above) and some of the creative influences Gabriel 01:02:59:08 Working with actor Earl T. Kim. 01:08:45:04 Enjoying the process. 01:10:58:09 Advice for young filmmakers. 01:16:41:13 Some of our favorite films and TV shows. 01:23:26:20 What's something that helps you keep balanced? James - Walks in the park. Gabriel - Training Kendo. 01:26:30:18 Language Corner: * つけ麺 (tsukemen) is a Japanese dish of dipping noodles. The “tsuke” part of the word means to dip. * いただきます (itadakimasu) is a Japanese phrase said before eating a meal to give thanks. It comes from the verb いただく(itadaku), which means to accept/to receive. * “China” in Puerto Rican Spanish means “oranges” due to the historical link of oranges coming from China. * Chintan ramen (清湯ラーメン) is a Japanese term, derived from Mandarin, meaning “clear broth ramen.” 01:31:41:15 Advice to those who have mixed backgrounds and may have a hard time fitting in. Gabriel found his people when taking an interest in the arts ——— Follow and connect with us on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast Remember to like/comment to helps others find our work! Inquiries: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

After a long hiatus, Yin & Young are back with Paul Hoi, the sequel! Paul is a on a year-long sabbatical traveling the world and has spent the past few months traveling Japan. Earlier this year, James had the privilege of meeting up with him in Tokyo and we got to catch up about his travels, his new passions like skiing and scuba diving, and the reality of solo traveling. Apologies for the poor audio, especially for my mic, this was our first time trying an outdoor recording. Did our best to correct it in post, so hopefully it’s listenable! Catch our 1st interview with Paul here: https://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/2021/4/19/yin-and-young-ep56-paul-hoi Paul Hoi’s photography and other works: https://linktr.ee/paul_hoi Highlights: 00:01:05 Introductions & Overview: meeting up in Japan, visited Junji Ito exhibit. 00:03:53 What brought Paul to Japan. Been finding new loves: scuba diving, skiing, riding around on a moped. 00:07:27 Transitioning from working in a high stress environment to solo traveling. 00:10:08 Each of us talk about our different experiences visiting Japan and feelings about travel. 00:17:04 Driving in Japan. 00:20:02 Dan shares his experience traveling to Sasebo in Kyushu. 00:23:22 The reality of traveling: dealing w/ loneliness, language barriers, anxiety, addiction to solitude, feeling like an outsider. 00:32:33 Making friends in Japan. Dan shares Japan stories of ghost hunting, shooting fireworks, and drifting (Initial D). 00:37:41 Old-school Japan (Showa Era). See CORRECTIONS below. 00:40:20 Paul’s interests have been his north stars for traveling. Shares his story of falling in love with skiing and the differences between American and Japanese skiing. 00:48:10 The need for physical expression. Short cut to the Presence. Wordlessness. 01:00:13 Dan shares stories about what physical activities his kids enjoy doing. Language corner (01:02:23): Japanese 蟻 - ari - ants. James Shares a story about Japanese school children walking to school in an orderly fashion like ants. おじゃまします - Ojamashimasu - thank you for having me. Lit. sorry for being a hinderance. 亀 - kame - turtle. The basis for Goku’s finishing attack, Kamehamaha, which is also the name of a Hawaiian king. 迷惑 - meiwaku - to be troubled or bothered (by). Japanese culture emphasizes that one should not be a nuisance (meiwaku). お待たせしました - Omatase shimashita - sorry to have kept you waiting What you’re doing to stay balanced/present (01:11:54): James: Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu Paul: Art, skiing, scuba diving Dan: Surfing, Kung Fu ——— CORRECTIONS: 00:37:41 James incorrectly claims that 1992/93, when Dan was in Japan, was the Showa Era but actually that era was the Heisei Era (1989~2019) in Japan. The Showa Era was 1926~1989. 00:38:27 Dan and James mix up the dates about the Showa Era. The Showa Era was 1926~1989, and is generally divided into pre-war Showa Era (1926~1945), and post-war Showa Era (1945~1989). ——— Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube: @yinyoungpodcast  YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast FB: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Inquiries: [email protected]

William Gee Wong (Bill) is a prominent figure in the realm of Chinese-American journalism and literature, recognized for his insightful contributions to the understanding of Asian American experiences. Born and raised in Oakland Chinatown in California, Bill's work often reflects his deep connection to his heritage and the diverse cultural landscape of his upbringing. Bill's narratives provide a vital perspective on the Asian American community's struggles and triumphs. Bill’s most recent endeavor is a memoir chronicling his own family’s immigration story as well as his life and career. Bill shares deep, personal insight into the Chinese American immigration experience during the early 20th century, the era of the Chinese Exclusion Act, and its impact on American society. Bill’s website: https://www.williamgeewong.com/ Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to William Gee Wong (Bill) and his recent memoir, “Sons of Chinatown.” 03:40 Bill’s father, mother, and sisters’ migration story. 11:02 Angel Island and the paper sons, paper marriage scheme. 16:23 Bill’s father’s “altercation” with his paper brother over losing money in the lottery business. 22:20 Bill’s father and mother really wanted a son. Some favoritism for sons. 25:47 We share our connections to the Bay Area. Bill’s “Chinatown bubble.” 33:05 Cultural separation from Hoishan-wa and his father. A connection to the Chinatown mindset. 36:40 Chinatown Tongs 45:50 Los Angeles Tong/Benevolent Association. 49:00 Bill’s identity search as he moved from Chinatown to bigger, whiter America and navigating these spaces in the journalism world. 01:00:57 Returns to writing and starts a weekly column highlighting Asian American issues at the Oakland Tribune. 01:05:12 What does it mean to be Asian American? Bill highlights the many different groups and histories this label encompasses. 01:16:50 James shares stories about being asked about his identity. 01:20:25 Dan shares his thoughts on the “Asian American” label and Hollywood casting. 01:22:30 Bill’s conversation with his son when they visited Bill’s father’s ancestral home (spoiler alert for those who plan to read the book). 01:30:40 Angel Island is depicted in Berkeley Rep’s: Far Country. 01:33:00 What do you to stay balanced? - Walk around the neighborhood. - Weightlifting. 01:36:00 Language corner: Taiwanese Hokkien (Reference: Mandarin and Taiwanese dictionary: https://itaigi.tw) - 免客氣 mián kheeh-khì - You’re welcome. (lit. Don’t be so polite). - 緣投 iân-tâu - handsome, good looks. - 無共款 bô-kāng-khuán - not the same, different Hoishan-wa/Taishanese - 哎呀/哎吔 aiya - oh my god! Japanese - おもろい omoroi - interesting [in the Kansai dialect]. ——— Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube: @yinyoungpodcast FB: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Email: [email protected]

We’re so happy to have Aileen Cho, a licensed therapist based in the Southern California area, as our guest this episode! Aileen is a 2nd generation Korean-American clinician that offers psychotherapeutic services in both English and Korean. In this podcast (a first for Aileen) she shares her personal and professional insight into intergenerational trauma, marriage challenges, and the various ways she helps individuals to find their own way to heal. Aileen’s website: https://www.aileenbcho.com/ Contact Aileen (currently not accepting new clients until Sept. 2024): [email protected] Highlights: 00:00 James gives a brief intro of Aileen. They met at the Asian American Theater Festival at UCSD. 01:45 We do a check-in. Aileen is very pregnant. 04:25 Born in LA, her mother's family were North Korean refugees and shares a story about her paternal grandfather who was sold as a child slave to a Japanese family. 07:00 Discusses how she was born into intergenerational trauma due to her family’s history. She is the keeper of stories for her family. 09:45 Started off in acting and theater in college, while also going to therapy. 11:25 After college: Her shift to the mental health field and eventually getting her Master’s in Drama Therapy. 12:40 Intergenerational trauma: Separation of North and South Korea. The way we rear children is influenced by our own trauma. 16:00 Advice to young people deciding about whether to go to therapy. 20:20 How were your first steps into therapy? 23:11 Finds that Korean American therapists are rare in her field and overall there’s a dearth of Asian American therapists. 25:25 More Asian Americans are going into clinical practice as well as seeking therapy. Most of her clients are now Asian Americans. 28:27 Mental health issues particular to Asian Americans. 31:55 Aileen’s Time Capsule Theory in regards to immigrants and the children of immigrants. 36:10 How to get boomer parents into family therapy. 37:35 How has being a therapist and going to therapy affected your own relationships? 40:50 Challenges with married life. 48:05 Communication issues with couples. 49:50 In the current social climate, the pressures of expectations of marriage has never been higher. Recommends Mating in Captivity by Esther Perel. 57:27 Collective grief and drama therapy. What do you to stay balanced? (59:40) Language corner （01:02:27): Circumstances that bring people meant for each other together; destiny; connection. - Mandarin: 緣分 (yuánfèn) - Korean: 인연 (inyeon) Empathy* - Korean: 공감 (gong-gam). From the hanja 共感, gung6gam2 in Cantonese, gònggǎn in Mandarin. *Aileen shares that the word “empathy” comes from the Greek words “in” (em) and “feeling” (pathos). Compare this to Korean, empathy = 공감, which is “communal" (공/共) + “feeling” (감/感). Shows individualistic vs collectivist cultural differences in the languages. 01:09:17 Aileen and her husband have inherited her mom’s secret kimchi recipe. ——— Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube: @yinyoungpodcast  FB: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Email: [email protected]

Writer Peter Kageyama joins Yin & Young again to talk about MIDNIGHT CLIMAX the second novel of the Kats Takemoto series. Peter joined us last time (EP 66) discussing HUNTERS POINT the first Kats Takemoto novel and in this book we delve more into Kats wartime past, Chinatown gangs, and secret government mind control experiments. Peter shares insight into the writing process of this novel and what is important to him as a writer. Highlights: - 00:11 Intro: photo of Peter’s dad by Dorothea Lange and Feodor Chin is the voice actor for Peter’s novels. - 03:35 Reintroducing Peter and his first novel Hunters Point which podcasted about a year ago. - 07:00 Yokohama is one of Dan's favorite places and Peter’s family origins are from the area. - 07:55 Midnight Climax is Peter's latest book. Promoting a book runs contrary to the writing process. - 10:00 Peter’s process for writing. Peter has places where he feels comfortable writing. - 11:45 Thoughts on “writer’s block.” Writing the 3rd book has been more challenging. - 15:40 In the process of moving in Florida. - 17:00 “No-No Boy” by John Okada as testament to conscientious dissent. - 19:20 Kats is not anti-government, but he doesn’t like bullies. - 21:45 Officer Blackstone in the book is a real person and Kats is drawn to other principled characters like him. - 23:13 How to write about historical figures. Peter connected with a relative of Shig Murao via Instagram. - 26:54 Fell in love with the characters. Researched PTSD to flesh out the characters better. - 30:05 Tours of Chinatown helped inspire the writings of the place in the book. - 32:00 Learning about languages for the book. Utilized Wikipedia for some different terms of the time. Distinctions between Mandarin & Cantonese. - 36:00 How to write about ethnic characters without playing into stereotypes, particularly the Chinese prostitute character. - 42:17 The guys talk about why they started studying martial arts - 46:20 Peter discusses the CIA experiments of the 1960s - 51:10 Themes of love and friendship. - 52:57 Dorothea Lange’s picture of Peter’s father who was an inspiration for Kats. - 57:58 Discussion of sports leagues that came from internment camps. Repercussions of Japanese internment. - 01:05:25 Staying balanced: Board games and exercise. Language corner (01:17:20) Cantonese - 鬼婆 gwei po - devil old lady. Derogatory term for white women. - 鬼佬 gwei lo - foreigner Scottish - Hurkle-Durkle - to lay about in bed long after the time to get up. Mandarin - 舊金山 - jiùjīnshān - literally: old gold mountain which means San Francisco. Peter Kageyama’s links: - Website: https://peterkageyama.com/ - Peter’s non-fiction work on urban planning and communities: https://www.fortheloveofcities.com Other links: - Peter’s 1st appearance on the Yin & Young Podcast EP66 discussing HUNTERS POINT - https://youtu.be/el10M-hBdVI?si=2bKzcRffOm2CDhdW - Feodor Chin returns to voice MIDNIGHT CLIMAX - https://peterkageyama.com/audiobook-now-available-feodor-chin-returns/ - Our podcast with Feodor: https://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/2017/12/3/yin-young-ep24-feodor-chin - San Francisco City Guides (tours of San Francisco): https://sfcityguides.org/ - Thai artist featured on Peter’s wall, Ummarid “Tony” Eitharong: https://tonyeitharong.com/ ——— Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube: @yinyoungpodcast  FB: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast 

Welcome back Yin & Young listeners! It’s been a long time since our last episode; Young was busy with his wedding (congrats!) but now that’s done, we’re happy to be back with guest Daniel Tong! Daniel is an editor based in Los Angeles, CA, U.S. Daniel has a passion for editing and shares his journey finding his place in the filmmaking industry. Highlights: 01:56 Young ran into Daniel at a high school reunion. 05:50 Daniel’s family is ethnically Chinese from Burma. 07:15 Shares the start of his love for movies and the arts. 10:04 Young and Daniel rehash one of their early film projects in high school for French class (Godzilla appears). 12:07 Shares the initial push back he got from his immigrant parents about wanting to pursue filmmaking.  14:10 His start in film as an undergrad and then grad school. 21:55 Discusses his thoughts on film school and how he found his place in film there. 28:30 The importance of networking. 32:30 Gives insight into working at Pixar as a contractor. 42:40 Becoming a Pixar Online Editor during the pandemic. 44:30 The difference between an online and a offline editor. 47:40 Issues using different editing programs in the workflow. 52:20 Daniel's preferred editing application and the benefits/drawbacks of each of them. 57:04 Editing in the gaming industry. 01:01:00 His desire for leadership experience and his first leadership role at Blizzard. 01:02:50 Getting through the Blizzard interviews having not played the games, but now obsessed with them (World of Warcraft, Diablo, etc…). 01:05:40 His experience working on the documentaries for “Coco” and “Turning Red” and why he connected with them deeply. 01:13:49 Yin’s plans for his kids going to college. 01:14:43 Discussion about famous editor Walter Murch’s book “In a Blink of an Eye” and Daniel’s own approach to editing and assistant editing. 01:28:29 Language corner (see below). We also go over the origin of KFC popularity in Japan during Christmas and chat about Del Taco ramen and Donald Glover’s boba shop. 01:34:01 Projects that Daniel is working on (see below for links). 01:35:23 Shout outs. Pursue your passion. Language corner:  * Young - KFC is "Kenta” (ケンタ) for short in Japanese. * Yin -  渋滞 (じゅうたい juutai) - traffic jam 残業 (ざんぎょう zangyo) - overtime Daniel Tong’s links: Website: https://danieltongeditor.weebly.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danieltongeditor Recent and current projects Daniel Tong has edited/assistant edited on: * No Room For Love - Filipino American web series, https://www.instagram.com/noroom_forlove * Creature Comforter - a short horror comedy mockumentary, https://www.instagram.com/bravemakerorg * Release the Beast by Ryzo Studios -  An artistic but timid boy who learns to defend himself against bullies from the characters he creates for his video games. https://www.ryzo.studio/ * Junho - a former theater actor from Korea tries to outrun his past: https://youtu.be/FShHTubEpkI?si=3SfXAK01tab4-h0_ * “Always in My Head” - music video by Filipino American music artist Garth Garcia: https://youtu.be/nv7fuOCBX_k ——— Follow and connect with us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube: @yinyoungpodcast  FB: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast 

In this episode Dan (Yin) and James (Young) share their experiences with married life. Dan gives his perspective as someone who has been married longer and also has children. In contrast, James, who’s newly married, shares some of his feelings transitioning into married life. Highlights: * No real major changes for Young after marriage, but there are some nuanced shifts in family dynamics with Young, his parents, and the in-laws * Compromises to create more quality time with one’s partner, while still managing some time for hobbies. * Figuring out each other’s palette when cooking. * Discussion about ramen flavors. * Adjusting to budgets and spending money as a couple * Doing martial arts at an older age requires a shift in thought. * Accepting the valuable experience of living in semi-rural Japan. * Regrets and the concept of time. Language corner: Japanese * 日日是好日 - nichi nichi kore kou jitsu (aslo pronounced: hi bi kore kou jitsu) - every day is a good day, enjoy each day (even the “bad” ones). * 豚小屋 - buta go ya - pigsty [insult when referring to a person's room] ——— Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube: @yinyoungpodcast FB: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpod... YT: https://www.youtube.com/@UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Questions, comments, sponsors—email: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

In this episode we had the privilege to chat with Hong Kong-based artist Kelly Hebestreit! Kelly does creative, introspective work in photography, poetry, film, and many other mediums. Her work explores such things as local neighborhoods, cultural identity, and the heartbreak behind someone not taking off their shoes. Kelly's Website: https://kellyhebestreit.cargo.site/ Kelly's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/herbystripes/ Highlights: - Kelly and James connected at the Taiwanese American Film Festival back in 2016. - Held an intimate art installation show, "Satellite," in 2021 and released a related zine. - Reflections on life in America and an incident with her ex. - Part of the Zaazaaaa Collective, an art commune in Hong Kong (HK). - Background: Grew up in HK, father is German, mother is Taiwanese - Father is in the textile industry. - Moved back to HK during the pandemic and can appreciate the city after living abroad. - Enjoyed studying abroad in Tokyo, but mentions why she probably wouldn't live there long term. - How Osaka people remind her of HK people and why she likes both. - Shares situations where she's benefitted from white privilege in HK. Language corner: - 好八卦 (hou2 baat3-gwaa3) - So nosy! [Cantonese. The bagua is an ancient eight trigram symbol.] - 唔該 （mm goy） - Thanks! Excuse me. [Cantonese.] - 多謝 （doh jeh） - Thank you. [Cantonese.] - 猴囡仔 (kâu-gín-á) - little monkey(s). [Taiwanese. Similar to "little rascals" or "you crazy kids." - 半斤八兩 (bànjīnbāliǎng) - tweedledee and tweedledum. [Mandarin. Similar to 猴囡仔.] ——— Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube: @yinyoungpodcast FB: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Questions, comments, sponsors—email: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Yin & Young the podcast is back with a new episode with writer Peter Kageyama! Peter is a writer whose latest book, 1950s noir thriller “Hunter’s Point” featuring Asian American lead characters, recently became an Amazon bestseller. In this episode we discuss Peter’s background as a Sansei (third generation Japanese American), his work in non-fiction (For the Love of Cities) and fiction, and much more. Peter’s website: peterkageyama.com Peter’s non-fiction work: /www.fortheloveofcities.com Highlights: - Peter shares a bit of historical background about Hunter’s Point, San Francisco. - Peter grew up in Akron, Ohio, stood out as one of the few (if not only) mixed race kids in the neighborhood. - Is known for his work on urban development and city planning (For the Love of Cities) and is now writing fiction. - Father was a Nisei (2nd generation Japanese American) who was interned along with his family during World War 2 in the U.S. - “Hunter’s Point” was written as a kind of conversation with his father. Father was reserved and did not talk about his time in the camps or in the U.S. military. - Shig Murao, City Lights bookstore manager in the 1950s, plays an important role in the book and in the real world Beat scene. - How ones parent’s language is lost with each generation. - More accepting of his mixed race heritage and how this book helped him reconnect with his Japanese heritage. - Being Japanese vs being Japanese American. - How rare/taboo it was to see Asian men marry white women during the 1950s. - Currently writing a sequel to “Hunter’s Point.” Book Recommendations: - Peter recommends: Facing the Mountain (Daniel James Brown) about Japanese internment. - James recommends No-No Boy (John Okada) about a Japanese American that refused to be drafted into the U.S. military. Language corner: - 反抗期 - hankouki: rebellious phase - 恩 on: obligation (benevolent) - 義理 giri: obligation (social, honorable) - sussy baka: silly stupid (a term kids use when gaming to describe ridiculous behavior). Combines “suspect” with “baka” (馬鹿) which is Japanese for fool. - 失敗 - shippai: mistake; darn! ——— Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube: @yinyoungpodcast FB: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Questions, comments, sponsors—email: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Welcome back to Yin & Young the podcast! In this episode we chat with Matty Beavers! Matty is a cinematographer, filmmaker, YouTuber, vlogger, anime fan, Japanese language learner, and an all around good dude. In this episode we get to hear about Matty’s artistic beginnings and aspirations, his lived experience as an African American and Filipino, and much more. Matty’s work: https://linktr.ee/mattybeavs Matty’s Instagram (@mattybeavs): https://www.instagram.com/mattybeavs Highlights: - Matty is currently pursuing his Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Cinematography at the University of Southern California (USC). - Matty met James at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) when he was doing his undergrad in Television Production. - Grew up in Camarillo and Central Valley, California. - Family background is African and Filipino. Did not pick up Ilocano (spoken by his Filipino grandparents) growing up, but is currently learning Japanese. - “I, Robot” kicked off his passion for filmmaking. - Marvels at the technical aspects of lighting and filming scenes. Also admires Marvel films for their achievement in this area. - Taking a chance on himself by taking on debt for grad school. - Has learned so much from his family and their struggles. Applies those life lessons to his own work. - Completed his thesis project recently as Director of Photography for the film “Go Dani Go.” (@go_dani_go_: www.instagram.com/go_dani_go_). Stills from the film can be seen in this episode's thumbnail. Language Corner: Japanese * We all do our best to give a self-introduction (自己紹介 jikoshokai). * 趣味 (shumi) - hobbies * 中二病　(chūnibyou) - 8th grader sickness. typically used to describe early teens who have grandiose delusions, believe they have secret powers, etc…(Wikipedia). ——— Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, Youtube: @yinyoungpodcast FB: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast IG: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast YT: https://www.youtube.com/@yinyoungpodcast Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Questions, comments, sponsors—email: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Thanks for your patience Yin & Young listeners! We’re back after a break to bring you this episode with filmmaker Mayu Nakamura! In this short episode, we were lucky to have a chance to chat with Mayu about her experiences growing up in Japan, studying/working abroad, and what stories she wants to tell as a filmmaker. Website: https://mayunakamura.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/missyn510 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mayun510/ HIGHLIGHTS: * Worked in documentaries after graduating with an MFA from New York University. * Released a recent omnibus feature film called, “She is me, I am her.” 「ワタシの中の彼女」 * James and Mayu met through a mutual filmmaker friend and connected in Japan. * Grew up in Japan, but went to study abroad at young age in London and eventually the U.S. * Plans on splitting her time between Japan and the States. * Believes the Japanese film industry is slowly trying to move towards being more inclusive and promoting diversity. * Some of the topics she explores in her films are sexism and ageism. * Movies that she revisits regularly are “Days of Being Wild” 「阿飛正傳」, ”Typhoon Club” 「台風クラブ」, “A Brighter Summer Day” 「牯嶺街少年殺人事件」。 ———— Follow us on FB & IG: @yinyoungpodcast. Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Questions, comments, sponsors—email: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Hi Yin & Young listeners! Help support this podcast by clicking our sponsor link for Magic Mind, an effective productivity drink, link: magicmind.co/yny.  Enter code YNY20 within 10 days of this podcast release to get up to 40% off a subscription. Afterwards, you can still get you 20% off a one time purchase. Thank you so much to Magic Mind for being Yin & Young’s first sponsor! In this episode we have the privilege to chat with Sam Sakamoto! Sam is a writer, traveler, rock climber, avid Rams fan, and former English teacher in Japan. HIGHLIGHTS: * James and Sam met during social hour in quarantine in Tokyo for an English language teaching program. * Japanese demeanor still shows up in her family, even though she is 4th generation Japanese American. * Wanted to go back to Japan to get in touch with her roots. * Was stationed in Nara, but also spent a lot of time in Kyoto. * Currently applying to MFA programs and masters in teaching programs. * When first arriving in Japan, adjusting to day-to-day life took a couple of months. Coworker helped a lot. * Misses food in Japan: omakase, katsu-don, tsukemen, and much more. * Rock climbing/bouldering gyms in Japan are way more technical. * Misses the appreciation of the little things in Japan. For example: holidays and events for changes in the season, the blooming of certain flowers, wind chimes, etc… Language corner: Japanese * 渋滞 (jyuutai) - traffic jam * 仕様がない (shouganai) - can't be helped Mandarin * 懷才不遇 (huai2cai2bu2yu4) - to have talent but no opportunity ———— Follow us on FB & IG: @yinyoungpodcast. Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Sponsorships, questions, comments—email: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Hi Yin & Young listeners! In this episode (recorded earlier this year) James adjusts to living in Japan and Dan shares some of his stories. Near the end we discuss martial arts and communication issues based on recent experiences. Dan also shares his experience trying the productivity drink Magic Mind to help him work better . Our listeners get a special discount! Go to magicmind.co/yny and enter code YNY20 within 10 days of this podcast release (8/1/2022) to get up to 40% off a subscription. Afterwards, you can still get you 20% off a one time purchase. Thank you so much to Magic Mind for being Yin & Young the Podcast’s first sponsor! HIGHLIGHTS: * Acclimating to the Japanese workplace and お土産 omiyage (snack) giving culture. * James shares how he’s learning Japanese. * Training BJJ in Japan vs the US. * Japanese food and missing Mexican food. * Shoes/slipper needed in Japan: outdoor, indoor, gym, school, bathroom * It’s normal to find and return wallets/money. * Old and new aspects of Japan. * Limited number of trash cans; separating trash. * Dan’s Japan stories: Yokohama, working there as a 19 year old, drifting in the mountains, ghost hunting, Obon festival. * Taking local trains is fun: slow life. * Seasonal items at Japanese McDonald’s, Starbucks, etc… * Making friends: need a local person to show you around. * Teaching martial arts: Dan gets tested by a parent in LA. * Cultural/relationship communication: direct vs indirect, adjusting without resenting. The knee jerk response might not be the best. Language Corner Japanese * 便所 - benjo - restroom * 持ち帰る - mochi kaeru - take-out (food) * 丼 - donburi - a rice bowl dish * お好み焼き - okonomiyaki - savory pancake dish * 長閑 - nodoka - calm, tranquil * 肝試し - kimodameshi - test of courage Follow us on FB & IG: @yinyoungpodcast. Like/comment to helps others find our work! Yin & Young is produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support us on Patreon: patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Title photos by James. Left: Rice fields of Tsu. Middle: Cherry Blossoms in Tokyo. Right: The National Art Centre, Tokyo. Sponsorships, questions, comments—email: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Hi Yin & Young listeners! We’re back finally with a conversation with artist, creative director, and new father Geoffrey Oki! Follow Geoff Oki: * Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gokid/ * Twitch: https://www.twitch.tv/gokid * Yellow Peril Podcast: https://www.facebook.com/YellowPerilPod/ HIGHLIGHTS: * James met Geoff at the Los Angeles Asian Pacific Film Festival years ago and was able to help score him some tickets. * Geoff was born and raised in Sacramento * Moved to LA for school, majored in design and worked at different ad agencies as creative director * Lived in Taiwan for a couple of years in the mid 2010’s for a change of pace. * Recently lived in Taiwan for a short time and then moved back with his wife and newborn. * As a college student, it was definitely a big change from Sacramento to LA in terms of the number of Asians. * Explored his Asian American identity more in LA. * Helped a friend shoot/co-produce a few movies: Wait For Me, Broken Kingdom. * Geoff relives how he met his wife in Taiwan. * What it’s like being a new dad. * Discussion turns to the Atlanta spa shootings a year ago and anti-Asian attacks earlier this year. * Thoughts on living in the U.S. vs Taiwan, especially as a new father. * Geoff likes vintage shirts and has had t-shirt parties in LA Chinatown. Language Corner (01:20:41): * Taiwanese: 你是佗位的人？ - lí sī tó-ūi ê lâng? - where are you from? * Japanese: * ばかうまい - baka umai - crazy delicious. (I mispronounce it in the podcast) * ホーム - hōmu - platform * 班長 - hanchō - team leader. The term “head honcho” is often mistakenly referred to as Spanglish but actually comes from Japanese. * Mandarin: * 婊子 - biǎozi - a spiteful woman * 馬馬虎虎 - mǎmahūhū - so-so, not so bad, careless * Korean: 미국 - mi-gug/mi-guk - America, literally “beautiful country” (美國）. “Guk,” which means country, was used as a derogatory term towards Asians after the Korean war. ———— Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast. Please like and comment, it helps others find our work. This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Support Yin & Young on Patreon https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Follow Yin & Young: * Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq * Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast email us: yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

In this episode we chat with Rama Reddy, a mixed martial arts coach that has trained and taught around the world (US, Taiwan, Brazil, India) and currently lives in Germany. From Rama’s website: “I am a writer and educator based in Berlin, Germany. I believe education is civilization’s most vital tool.”  Recorded early February 2022. --- HIGHLIGHTS: * Met James in Taiwan in the mid/late 2000s. * Born in NY, moved to Houston, then lived in Seattle for most of his formative years. * Opened an MMA studio in Bangalore, India due to its growing population and his own family’s connection to the area. Lived there 7 years before moving to Germany. * India can be a tough place to live, particularly for an entrepreneur. * Discussion on race vs. nationality. * How he met his wife and what led him to live in Germany. * Rama traces his martial arts background: wresting, BJJ, boxing. Fighter/coach Eliot Corley helped shape his striking. * Building a group of dedicated martial arts students. * Differences in the student-teacher dynamic between the U.S., Germany, India. * Four Rs: Relevancy, Relationships, Rigor, Results * How his teaching philosophy has evolved: a focus on relationships. * Currently working on the Square Ring: a boxing board game: https://www.boxingboardgame.com/
 --- LANGUAGE CORNER (01:13:38) * P.U.F.E.L: Stages of a Takedown by Rama Reddy https://www.instagram.com/p/CYEfStVovXZ/ * Position: “tie” in wrestling, kumi-kata 組み方 in judo (grip fighting, lit. “assembly method”). * Unbalancing: “set-up” in wrestling, kuzushi 崩しin judo * Fitting-in: “shot” in wrestling, but tsurikomi 釣込 in judo closer in meaning. * Execution: “finish” in wrestling, kake 掛け in judo. * Landing: nage 投 in judo (throw). --- LANGUAGE CORNER (01:13:38) P.U.F.E.L: Stages of a Takedown by Rama Reddy https://www.instagram.com/p/CYEfStVovXZ/ - Position: “tie” in wrestling, kumi-kata 組み方 in judo (grip fighting, literally “assembly method”). - Unbalancing: “set-up” in wrestling, kuzushi 崩しin judo - Fitting-in: “shot” in wrestling, but tsurikomi 釣込 in judo is bit closer to the meaning of “fitting in”. - Execution: “finish” in wrestling, kake 掛け in judo. - Landing: nage 投 in judo (throw). --- Rama Reddy’s links - website: https://www.ramareddy.org - IG: https://www.instagram.com/ramareddy.mma/ - Berlin gym (Deutsch): https://www.ramareddy.org/berlin - Interview with Robert Drysdale, BJJ Rules: https://youtu.be/3cIcc1tTRBk --- Follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast. Please like and comment, it helps others find our work. Credits: This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Consider supporting Yin & Young on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Follow Yin & Young:  - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Recorded late 2021. Synopsis: Michael Newman (former TV writer, from episode 12, link below) has moved to Japan. James is also in Japan and at the time was quarantining in a fancy hotel. Today’s podcast focuses on acclimating to living in Japan: convenience store food, toilets, dating, maid cafes, and more. **** HIGHLIGHTS: * 6:15 James is in Japan for a teaching program and is quarantining in Tokyo. The rules are less strict than his Taiwan quarantine. * 12:31 Movie prices in Japan have come down in price compared to the 90s. * 20:16 Michael's teacher was concerned when they learned that Michael was eating a lot of convenience food, but they doesn't understand how bad the convenience store food is in the US (e.g. 7-11 hot dogs). * 22:48: Michael Newman shares his reasons for coming to Japan. Is currently taking Japanese classes but does not like online instruction (thanks COVID). * 33:07 Politeness levels in Japan. * 40:25 Culture shock?: Michael has acclimated to Japan. He doesn't want to move back to the US because he doesn't want to drive everywhere. Prefers walking. * 41:12 Discussion of modern Japanese toilets (bidet, seat warmers, etc…) and how they are much better than the US. * 52.46: What’s dating/socializing like in Japan. Tip: Having a local Japanese friend helps a lot. * 54:45: Maid cafe/Girl’s bar culture * 1:11:55 Keeping fit in Japan: walking. 
 LANGUAGE CORNER (1:18:35): Japanese * お邪魔します- ojamashimasu - Sorry for the intrusion. Lit. I’m being a demon. (present tense), お邪魔しました - ojamashimashita (past tense). Said when arriving or leaving someone’s home as a guest. * ツンデレ - tsundere - the ice queen who eventually shows her warmer side. * 絶対領域 - zettai ryōiki - the area of bare skin between over-knee socks and a miniskirt. lit. absolute territory (originally to describe a force field in the anime Neon Genesis Evangelion). * お先に失礼します - osaki ni shitsureshimasu - sorry for leaving early (used in an office setting). * 本音と建前 - honne to tatemae - a person’s true feelings vs their public face. *ゴジラ - Gojira - known as Godzilla outside of Japan, the name is a portmanteau of the Japanese words gorira (ゴリラ, "gorilla") and kujira (クジラ, "whale"). - * Yin & Young EP 12 - Comedy Writer Michael Newman: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/2017/4/29/yin-young-episode-12-comedy-writer-michael-newman Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast. Like and subscribe to our content so you don’t miss an episode.  Credits: This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin.
 Consider supporting Yin & Young on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Follow Yin & Young: * Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq * Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast 
 Comments, questions? Email us at yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Recorded in Tainan, Taiwan summer of 2021, James and Dan chat to discuss updates with James’s life as he prepares to leave Taiwan to head back to the US. James shares some of the relationships and skills he has built during his time in Taiwan, Dan shares updates of the vaccine rollout in the U.S. HIGHLIGHTS: - James gives Dan a mini-tour of his room. - James shares some of his plans after leaving Taiwan. - They share their experiences with therapy and how important it is to have a therapist that understands your cultural background, values, and the effects of racism. - Asian American men put a lot of pressure on themselves. - Discussion about the transition from being single to being in a relationship. - Dan shares his experiences with career coaching. - Taiwanese and Asian American pride in the Olympics. Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast. Like and subscribe to our content so you don’t miss an episode. Credits: This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin.Consider supporting Yin & Young on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Follow Yin & Young: Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Recorded February 2021 in Taipei, Taiwan, James (aka Young) shares his experience of what it’s like in a quarantine hotel on the last day of his quarantine. The pandemic situation has changed drastically since the time of recording, with Taiwan now reporting an average of 513 COVID-19 cases for the last week of May 2021, a huge shift from the 1 to 2 cases a day in February. Taiwan is now in stage 3 out of 4 COVID alert, with all public gatherings and indoor restaurant seating cancelled. Life can change so quickly. Though many of the circumstances referenced in the podcast have changed, it still remains a personal snapshot of what life is like at the time and some of the thoughts going through our heads. Highlights: * James goes over the process of traveling to Taiwan during the pandemic: 14 days of quarantine (not including the arrival day), 7 days of “self-management.” * James and Dan compare and contrast how Taiwan and the U.S. are handling COVID. * How to distract yourself during quarantine: Attack on Titan. * What James is looking forward to after quarantine: martial arts, restaurants, dating… * James shares some of his habits that keep him sane: gratitude journal, meditation, working out… + Food is way cheaper in Taiwan, but the cost of living and average income is lower too. * Quarantine makes you face yourself. * Having a dream is a beautiful thing, but if you don’t have one, having simple goals are great too. LANGUAGE CORNER - F.I.R.E. - financial independence, retire early. Mandarin - - 隔離 - gélí - quarantine - 防疫 - fángyì - epidemic prevention Japanese - 取りあえず - toriaezu - for now - ワクチン - wakuchin - vaccine Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast. Like and subscribe to our content so you don’t miss an episode.  Credits: This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Consider supporting Yin & Young on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Follow Yin & Young: Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com

Consider supporting Yin & Young on Patreon! https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Dan and James are back with an enlightening chat with artist Paul Hoi! Paul shares his background, his artistic passions, and some of his thoughts about being Asian in America. Highlights: - Paul Chan by birth, but goes by Paul Hoi so as not to be mistaken for Paul Chan the art critic. - Is bad with naming his artwork so sometimes he just numbers them. - James and Paul met while working at the Apple store. Both did a lot of customer service Mandarin and Cantonese translations, respectively. - Came to the U.S. as an immigrant child from Hong Kong. As a child, he tried hard not to stand out and sought solitude. - Parents supportive even in his artistic pursuits. They made it clear to his sister and him growing up that they should not have to worry about money. - Has done a number of odd jobs: dog walker, property management, art gallery work. - Working at an art gallery, he realized he disliked the business side of art. - Learned different techniques from art class, but not a fan of the structured learning of art. - Began as an illustrator, which eventually led to photography. Is now is branching out into CGI. - For Paul, the most time consuming part of creating an art piece is conceptualizing what to make. - Likes to study space, landscapes, shapes in his work. Wants to create places that he wishes exist in real life. - Discussion about the pathos of Chinatown and how Asians have had to become self-reliant. LANGUAGE CORNER Spanish: Copia de seguridad - secure back up Mandarin: 雲碟 - yún dié - cloud drive 夜景 - yèjǐng - nightscape Japanese: Dan: アプリ - apuri - applications Paul: 七転び八起き - nanakorobi yaoki - Fall down seven times, get up eight. Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast. Like and subscribe to our content so you don’t miss an episode. Credits: This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Edited by Gabriel Toya-Meléndez Follow Yin & Young: - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

Yin & Young are back with a great conversation with transformation coach Lillian So! Lillian shares her journey of self discovery and eventual path into helping others live their best life.   HIGHLIGHTS: - Lillian So is the daughter of Korean immigrants and grew up in a very ethnically diverse part of Chicago. - Started career in fitness before moving to current career of helping people transform their lives (Transformation Coach). - Became self aware at a really young age due to criticisms from relatives and family situation. - Lillian and Yin & Young check in on where they are in their life right now. - Lillian discovered at an early age her ability to facilitate others to become the best they can be. - Chats about her alienation with a specific Christian Korean American community but finding a connection with Koreans in Korea. - Describes how she has collected a team of mentors/healers/spiritual leaders in her life. - Discussion shifts to tensions between the black and Asian communities in the U.S. Lillian shares her family’s experience doing business in a predominantly black neighborhood. - Current projects: writing a couple of books this year. LINKS - Lillian can be reached directly through her… Website: https://meetlillianso.com/ FaceBook: https://www.facebook.com/meetlillianso/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/meetlillianso/ LANGUAGE CORNER: Korean: 관상 gwansang - face reading. 사주 saju - Four Pillars of Destiny (Mandarin: 四柱 sìzhù) Mandarin: 算命 suànmìng - fortune telling. Japanese: 占い uranai - fortune telling. Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast. Like and subscribe to our content so you don’t miss an episode. Credits: This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Edited by Gabriel Toya-Meléndez Consider supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Follow Yin & Young: - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode we chat with the Struck CEO & Co-Founder, Rachel Lo! She shares her journey coming from a secular, technical background to developing an astrology-based dating app. Even if you're an astrology skeptic (like James), there still definitely something to be gained from this discussion. Rachel's message to skeptics: "Consider why astrology makes you so uncomfortable? Is it really harming you/other people, or is it just that you’re unfamiliar with it? Also: try reading your birth chart and see how it resonates with you!" HIGHLIGHTS: - Rachel grew up in the South Bay of LA and went to UC Berkeley for engineering. - Worked at Apple and other tech companies for a few years - Didn't believe in astrology at first, but the inequities in the workforce made Rachel consider that the world isn't concrete and filled with more nuance. - Met her co-founder after renting a house in SF with others working at Apple. - Struck designed to make experiences more meaningful and fun, it's based off astrological compatibility. - Dating apps have a similar playbook for launching apps, but the pandemic disrupted that. - Struck was in the Top 10 lifestyle apps in the Apple App Store. - James initially hesitant to have Rachel on as a guest due to his skepticism of astrology. - Parents immigrated from Hong Kong and met in NY - Struck is rooted in Western astrology (Hellenistic/Greek). - Parents were supportive of Rachel starting Struck. - Rachel breaks down James's and Dan's astrological chart - Had issues with the Apple App Store due to their restrictions on astrology apps. - Dating apps were engineered for people to continue to date, i.e. endless swiping. Struck aims to change that. LINKS: - Struck: https://www.struckapp.com/ - Struck IG: https://www.instagram.com/struck.app/ - Struck TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@struckapp LANGUAGE CORNER: Mandarin: - 相親 - xiāngqīn - blind date - 紅娘 hóngniáng (lít. red woman) / 媒人 méiren - matchmaker Cantonese: - 飲茶 - yám chà - Yum Cha, lit. drink tea, traditional Cantonese brunch with tea and dim sum. Japanese: - イケ面 - ikemen - good-looking guy - ギャル - gyaru - slang word for "gal", a Japanese subculture for woman who are tanned, have dyed hair, colored contacts, and other fashion trends. Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast. Like and subscribe to our content so you don’t miss an episode. Credits: This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. — Consider supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Follow Yin & Young: - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode, Yin & Young chat with young musician James Huang aka Strike Three of Strike it Rich Records (SIR Records). We discuss Asian American representation in film and music, what it’s like to be an Asian American high school student, and Strike’s journey into making music. HIGHLIGHTS: - Strike connected with us through Young's sister. - Strike wants to see more Asian American representation in the media. - He grew up in the Bay Area and went to private schools that were predominantly white. - The new Asian American identity is one where they had to define their values and who they are for themselves. - His goal is create positive role models for Asian Americans. - Strike's recent style is geared towards making more chill, fun to listen to music. - Was exposed to different music throughout his life due to parents being music lovers. - Strike It Rich music label is about empowering young Asian American artists. - His role models were found in music (Kanye West, J Cole) but didn’t have Asian American role models until recently. - Looks up to China Mac and supports the “They Can’t Burn Us All” movement: Asian Americans and non-Asian allies rallying against anti-Asian racism. - Is starting his own Asian American Youth group GenAZN. LINKS: - Strike Three’s Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsthethirdstrike/ - Strike Three’s music on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/3qm32fGKhPDTPmbX316E9j?si=Th31rlfMSb-4RkHvF7Fp_Q - Strike it Rich Records: https://threeoverthree.ueniweb.com/, IG: https://www.instagram.com/strikeitrichrecords/ - GenAZN: Student-run grassroots movement advocating the rights, empowerment, and diversity of this generation's Asian-Americans.: https://www.instagram.com/genazn_/ LANGUAGE CORNER: Mandarin: - 生於憂患死於安樂 - shēng yú yōuhuàn sǐ yú ānlè - lit. life comes from calamity, death comes from comfort, i.e. growth is borne from challenges, idleness from being too comfortable. - 量子糾纏 - liàngzǐjiūchán - quantum entanglement. Japanese: - 浮世絵 - うきよえ - ukiyo-e - literally: pictures of the floating world. Edo-period woodblock prints. Mandarin reading: 浮世絵 fúshìhuì: 浮世 in Buddhism means the world of the living, 絵 means drawing. - 残業 - ざんぎょう - zangyou - overtime (work). Russian: - Извините, я плохо знаю русский - Izvinite, ya plokho znayu russkiy. - Sorry, I don’t speak Russian well. - давай - davai - come on (can be a term of encouragement). Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast. Like and subscribe to our content so you don’t miss an episode. Credits: This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Edited by Gabriel Toya-Meléndez. — Consider supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Follow Yin & Young: - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

Happy Inauguration Day! On this special day, we’re releasing an episode we recorded back on November 3rd, election night 2020. It marked the 4 year anniversary of Yin & Young the Podcast. We’re joined by special guests Darren Kwan and Valerie Soe and the four of us commiserate over the anxieties about the election and frustrations with the Trump administration. It’s an interesting listen given how things have turned out. HIGHLIGHTS:  - James got confronted by some lady at Dunkin Donuts for being Asian. - Levels of Asian cultural etiquette may lead to Asians being passed over in the U.S. - Asians/Asian Americans need to code switch to adapt to non-Asians who don't have the same outlook/values. - Who needs to take responsibility for the current situation (e.g. the pandemic)? - Structural changes need to be done in the American education system. - Briefly touched upon the deaths of Sean Connery and Chadwick Boseman. - Running down the proposition votes. - Recent favorite shows: - Dan has been watching "Letterkenny" - Valerie recommends, via the San Diego Asian Film Festival: “76 Days” and “The Paper Tigers.” - James has been watching "Terrace House.” LANGUAGE CORNER: Mandarin: * 候選人 (hòuxuǎnrén) - candidates * 選舉 （xuǎnjǔ) - election Taiwanese: * 不錯 - bue bai - not bad Japanese * 大統領 (daitōryō) - president (nation) * 社長 (shachō) - company president Be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast on YouTube: @Yin & Young =). Like and subscribe to our content so you don’t miss an episode. Credits: This episode was produced by James Y. Shih and Daniel Yin. Edited by Gabriel Toya-Meléndez. Consider supporting us on Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Follow Yin & Young: - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

Happy Holidays Everyone! In this episode, our guest is screenwriter and Terrace House fan, Nicole McLendon. Nicole was a fellow intern with James at a development house. The topic of this episode revolves around Terrace House, an unscripted Japanese reality TV show on Netflix and Yin & Young’s go-to program during the pandemic. We will be covering Boys & Girls in the City which was the first season available on Netflix and is the second season of the Terrace House franchise. If you have not seen the Boys & Girls in the City, we recommend you check it out first, because this episode has spoilers! Highlights: * Nicole recently graduated and now works at an entertainment law firm. She hopes to get paid for screenwriting in the near future. * James, Nicole, and Dan explain what brought them to Terrace House. * The show is not a true reality show even though it declares itself an unscripted show. We go through the premise, cover the panelists, and the members of the show. * We go in-depth into major events and relationships in the season such as Dream Police, the Meat Incident, Arman’s bromances, and more. * We question how real the show is and how the "unscripted" disclaimer allows them to make the show appear like a reality show rather than something that has an outline or directed scenes. * Favorite cast members and couples. * Disclaimer: as an audience, we only see a short, edited glimpse of who the people on the show are. It’s important to not be too judgmental of the cast. Terrace House Japanese (テラスハウスの日本語) - * 告白 - こくはく - kokuhaku - confession of love, to ask someone to be your boyfriend/girlfriend. * 仕様がない - しょうがない - shouganai - it can’t be helped, there’s no other way * 意気地なし - いくじなし - ikujinashi - coward, loser * 目茶 - めちゃ - mecha - excessive, extreme * 超 - ちょう - chou - super, totally * やばい - yabai - 1. awful, 2. slang: terrific, amazing Links: * Netflix: https://www.netflix.com/title/80067942 * James’s article about Terrace House: https://www.newsbreak.com/news/2133941527449/terrace-house-an-introduction-and-a-constructed-reality?s * Terrace House cast member Hana Kimura passes away: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/05/24/world/asia/hana-kimura-aew-dead.html * Terrace House Reddit: https://www.reddit.com/r/terracehouse/ NOTE: This episode features videos clips from the show that belong to Fuji TV & Netflix as well as the images you see now if you’re watching on Youtube. The intro and outro song is “Slow Down” by the band Lights Follow. Speaking of follow, be sure to follow us on Facebook & Instagram: @yinyoungpodcast on YouTube: @Yin & Young =). Like and subscribe to our content so you don’t miss an episode. Thank you and hope everyone is staying safe and healthy. Happy New Year! -- Consider being a Yin & Young patron on our Patreon: https://tinyurl.com/u7to2s6 Find Yin & Young: - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

In this episode, James and Dan chat with Emi Higashiyama about the Taiwanese language and history of the Hokkien dialect family. Emi Higashiyama is a historic preservationist, specializing in Japanese colonial architecture in Taiwan and multicultural/multilingual aspects of Taiwanese heritage issues. Highlights: - 2:48 Emi’s cultural background is a complex mix of Taiwanese, Japanese, and American influences. - 11:52 Language and identity often are closely tied to each other. - 28:00 Hokkien is present throughout Southeast Asia, with different forms and variances. - 33:23 Language, dialect, and accent are all different from each other. - 39:00 Discussed how different races and cultures become “trendy” and “popular” in certain countries, leading to idealization (e.g. U.S. and Japanese culture in Taiwan). - 44:57 Brief history of linguistics in Taiwan: indigenous languages, Hokkien, Hakka, Japanese, Mandarin. - 47:15 Taiwan is like a melting pot due to its history of back and forth migration and colonial rule by the Japanese and Chinese. - 51:55 Emi quizzes Dan to see if he can figure out the Japanese equivalent to Taiwanese words. Taiwanese and Japanese have common words because of the Japanese colonial era in Taiwan. - 1:13:00 Emi’s shares the etymology of the Japanese sounding, but uniquely Taiwanese phrase あたまコンクリ (atama konkuri). - 1:25:55 Discussed the suppression of the Taiwanese language under the KMT to today’s increasing interest in learning Taiwanese. - 1:30:20 Final thoughts: go learn languages! Don’t treat it as a “foreign” language. Language Corner (1:41:31): Japanese （日本語) - - ちんぷんかんぷん - “that’s Greek to me!” or “I can’t make heads or tails of this.” From the Chinese phrase: 聽不懂看不懂 (tīng bù dǒng kàn bù dǒng) meaning “I can’t understand what you’re saying or writing.” - ボンネット- bonnetto - car hood. From the word “bonnet." - クラクション - kurakushon - car horn. From the word “klaxon." Hakka （客家話) - https://youtu.be/ktCOVjX1fEQ - ng3 ho4 (汝好) - 你好 - how are you? - an4 zii4 se (恁仔細) - 謝謝 - thank you! - siit bau4 mang (食飽吂）- 吃飽了嗎？- did you eat yet? Emi’s links: - Photo documentation project of Japanese colonial era architecture in Taiwan: https://www.instagram.com/japanesecolonial/ - Curated reading list on Taiwan’s history: https://medium.com/@emihigashiyama/how-to-become-an-expert-in-taiwan-history-94a89e225ea7 - Newsletter (exclusive access to Emi’s work in Taiwan): https://japanesecolonial.substack.com/subscribe - Learn Taiwanese with Bite-size Taiwanese: https://bitesizetaiwanese.com/ - Learn Japanese with Japanese by Chunking: www.youtube.com/c/japanesebychunking [Notes prepared by Emi’s intern Esther, edited/added to by James.] — Consider being a Yin & Young patron on our Patreon. Find Yin & Young: - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Be a patron: https://tinyurl.com/u7to2s6 Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

Recorded during the nationwide George Floyd protests, we chatted with Shannon Tetteh–a graduate of Fisk University (a historically black university), a certified massage therapist, and a current doctorate student in traditional Chinese Medicine. HIGHLIGHTS: * 00:00 Different methods of making Dit Da Jow (folk remedy for external injuries). Recently made a tincture to prevent hair loss and strengthen bone density. * 04:10 Shannon and James met in Oakland at a Wudang West Qigong (Chi Kung) class taught by David Wei. * 05:00 Moved around growing up; now based in Chicago. Part of a start-up combining cannabis with Chinese herbal medicine. * 10:50 Getting his first education in Black history at Fisk and seeing the deep psychological harm of using white American or white British as the default in film (e.g. Gods of Egypt 13:17). * 18:42 Discussion of "White Supremacy." * 29:29 Thoughts on the murder of George Floyd. * 41:30 Anime led Te to explore the martial arts. When he does have kids, plans to teach them what he’s learned. Has studied Wudang Qigong, Iron Body, and wants to study Five Elements Kung Fu. * 51:00 How Qigong can help the black community. * 58:15 The police started as slave patrols in the U.S. * 1:09:10 Should we reform or completely defund the police? * 1:18:52 America has an imbalance of Yin & Yang. Change is happening though.
 Martial Arts Tips (1:34:51): * Qigong lung strengthening exercise https://www.facebook.com/695585531/videos/10162929905750532/ * Sleep is super important. The body needs rest for proper liver, kidney function. * Martial arts gives self defense tools, but also heightens situational awareness and how to better carry yourself. Related links: * Shannon’s website: https://www.goldenpalmandneedle.com/ * Wudang West (Oakland): https://wudangwest.com/
 Books Mentioned: * Chi Gong: The Ancient Chinese Way to Health by Paul Dong * The Body Electric by Robert Becker * The writings of Manly P. Hall * A People's History of the United States by Howard Zinn
 Find us on our: Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ YouTube, iTunes, Facebook, Spotify, Stitcher Be a patron: https://tinyurl.com/u7to2s6  Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

Hi All! We recorded this podcast at the start of the lockdown with actor Paul Yen! Paul is a politically aware actor who can be seen on Hulu’s “Little Fires Everywhere” in the role of Scott. Paul was nominated in 2018 (not 2019 as said in the podcast) for LA Drama Critics Circle’s Best Lead Actor for his portrayal of Quang in East West Players’ “Vietgone.” HIGHLIGHTS: 00:51 Dan met Paul through a play that was directed by Dan’s wife. 1:46 Graduated from CSULB. Took a long break until a friend convinced him to finish his degree. 14:15 Had to rap for the “Vietgone” audition. 17:20 A social media post from the director telling Asian American men to “take space” lit a fire for Paul. 20:36 Many older Vietnamese immigrant are registered Republicans (incl. his parents). Been trying to get them to vote more Democrat. 28:00 Shares his auditioning process for “Little Fires Everywhere” (says this experience can vary greatly depending on the casting office). Role for “Little Fires Everywhere” differs from the Asian model minority stereotype 37:58 Watching Kerry Washington and Reese Witherspoon’s process as executive producers was educational and inspiring. 43:30 Solo show “Secret Identity Crisis” (The Hollywood Fringe 2017) takes popular superheroes (Batman, Superman, Spiderman) and reimagines them as Asian-American men. 55:39 Shares his voice acting experience on “White Snake.” 1:02:20 Sheltering in place with his wife and dog during the COVID-19 pandemic. 1:15:11 Paul’s political awakening. 1:35:48 Believes Asians actors should be able to play other types of Asians (as long there’s no language stipulation). Language Corner (1:31:08): Taiwanese - 莫按呢 - mài anné: don’t be like that Japanese - 仕舞った (しまった) - shimatta - darn it! we’re screwed! Vietnamese - mày - informal “you.” Used only between people who’re familiar. Related links: - Paul Yen on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hellopaulyen/ - Paul’s website: https://www.paulyen.com/ You can also find us on our: - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Be a patron: https://tinyurl.com/u7to2s6  Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

Hope everyone has been safe and healthy. We recorded this at the start of 2020 before the pandemic with filmmaker/Asian American studies professor Valerie Soe! We talk about her feature documentary, Love Boat: Taiwan, anti-orientalism, deaths in the K-pop community, and the pressures of being in the spotlight. HIGHLIGHTS: * Valerie: writer/director of Love Boat: Taiwan - https://www.loveboat-taiwan.com/about * Valerie went on Love Boat during college * Love Boat, formally known as The Overseas Compatriot Youth Taiwan Study Tour, was set up by the Taiwanese government to get young overseas Chinese and Taiwanese to visit Taiwan for cultural exchange. * Valerie is Chinese American. Family has been in the U.S. since the 1920s. * Glad to see more Asian representation in the media recently. * Discussed the passing of K-pop idols Sulli and Goo Hara and the pressures of modern society (compressed modernity) as mentioned in her blog: https://tinyurl.com/ycsgm6wc * The scrutiny K-pop stars face are not unique, result of rapid modernization, globalization, neo-capitalism.. * There are no dating clauses in contracts for K-Pop stars. * Cyberbullying is a major issue, with public figures and celebrities particularly vulnerable to widespread criticism.
 Language Corner * Korean: 사생팬 - sasaengpaen - a Stan. A stalker fan. Literally, “private life” fan. (in Mandarin: 私生飯 - Sī shēng fàn) * Mandarin: 地頭蛇 - dì tóu shé - lit. land head snake. The boss of that area. Street king. If you or someone you know is thinking of harming themselves: * Call the Suicide Prevention Hotline 1-800-273-8255: suicidepreventionlifeline.org/ * Message/call 7 Cups for someone to listen: https://www.7cups.com/ * Visit the National Institute of Health Suicide Prevention website: https://tinyurl.com/hbxmhmk
 Articles on depression and death in K-pop: * I have reported on 30 Korean celebrity suicides. The blame game never changes: https://tinyurl.com/ycxs6b43 * The Impossible Task of Being the ‘Perfect’ K-Pop Star: https://tinyurl.com/yb97d9vg Consider being a patron: https://tinyurl.com/u7to2s6 Email us at [email protected]

In this episode, recorded live March 15, 2020, Dan, James and returning guest Darren discuss life indoors as Los Angeles begins to tighten its quarantine/stay at home regulations. We also discuss some of the anti-asian sentiment that has come grown alongside the virus cases. To reiterate, we're not medical professionals and the views expressed in this video are our own and should not be taken as professional medical advice. If anything, hopefully this gives some insight into life in LA at the time and is entertaining in some way. Below are some of the links we reference in the video: Live map of coronavirus: https://coronavirus.jhu.edu/map.html Coronavirus Simulator: Why outbreaks like coronavirus spread exponentially, and how to “flatten the curve” - https://www.washingtonpost.com/graphics/2020/world/corona-simulator/ Joe Rogan Experience with Michael Osterholm, infectious disease specialist: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E3URhJx0NSw&t=3602s LA Chinatown businesses hit hard: https://www.latimes.com/california/story/2020-03-02/chinatown-businesses-begin-to-feel-sting-of-coronavirus-scare What Taiwan can teach the world about fighting COVID-19 - https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-news/what-taiwan-can-teach-world-fighting-coronavirus-n1153826 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-K_d0WFKQSo Why is the outbreak so bad in Italy?: https://time.com/5799586/italy-coronavirus-outbreak/ Patient 31 may have contacted 1,160 with coronavirus in South Korea: https://graphics.reuters.com/CHINA-HEALTH-SOUTHKOREA-CLUSTERS/0100B5G33SB/index.html Why new diseases keep appearing in China: https://www.vox.com/videos/2020/3/6/21168006/coronavirus-covid19-china-pandemic Pangolins the most trafficked animal in the world: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/03/05/opinion/coronavirus-china-pangolins.html My Take On Coronavirus | Russell Brand: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hlW4jwaxYzQ ——— CHEAP FOOD RECS James - Braised pork over rice (滷肉飯) at Sugar Fix Cafe (https://www.yelp.com/biz/sugar-fix-cafe-los-angeles-2). Chain option: Taco Bell’s Craving’s Boxes and $1 dollar menu. Darren - Chipotle burritos/bowls (Sofritas/Veggie) and Subway’s Veggie Delight. Dan - Kang Kang Food Court’s pan fried pork buns (小美的生煎包) - https://www.yelp.com/biz/kang-kang-food-court-alhambra —— LANGUAGE CORNER Japanese: - 病気 - byōki - sick Taiwanese: 今仔日 - kin’afjit - today ; 明仔再 - min’afzaix - tomorrow Cantonese: 點心 - dímsām - dim sum (small Cantonese dishes served generally around brunch) ; 餛飩麵 - wan4 tan1 min6 - wonton noodle soup — Consider being a patron on our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Listen to Yin & Young on our - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

Back with a podcast with Eric Chen, a speech and debate coach and supporter of former presidential candidate Andrew Yang. He has helped organize events and social media promotion in support of Yang before Yang dropped out of the race last month. We recorded in December 2019; please excuse some of the dated info discussed. However, with the recent measures taken to combat the spread of coronavirus, the proposals that Yang championed such as universal basic income (UBI), are essential now more than ever. We discuss that along with the topics below with Eric Chen: HIGHLIGHTS Family made 19 visa attempts to immigrate to the U.S. from Taiwan before they were successful. Eric met his dad for the first as child when he was 7. Grew up in San Gabriel Valley. Was treated as an outsider being a recent immigrant, even in the majority Asian SGV. Can't pinpoint when he identified as Asian American. Andrew Yang has to thread the relationship with China if he were to win. Originally a Bernie supporter, then went to an Andrew Yang rally in LA and liked what he heard. Also supported Elizabeth Warren before switching over to Andrew Yang. All nominees are starting to copy other candidates’ ideas The messaging for Dems is not as good as the GOP Andrew should’ve honed down to a few key messages. MATH = Make America Think Harder. Andrew is for UBI, Medicare for all, lower tuition. Andrew’s lack of political experience is an advantage, similar to Trump. Established media is dismissive of Andrew because he’s Asian. There's less backlash when racism is perpetrated against Asians LANGUAGE CORNER Japanese: 希望 - きぼう- kibō - hope Mandarin: 七情六慾 - Qī qíng liùyù - 7 emotions (joy, anger, despair, fear, love, hate, greed), 6 desires (sight, sound, smell, taste, touch, thought). What it means to be human. Mandarin: 危機 - wēijī - crisis. However, the second character 機 (jī) can be used in the word 機會 (jīhuì) which means “opportunity”. — Consider being a patron on our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Listen to Yin & Young on our - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at [email protected].

Yin & Young…are back! Thank you for your patience (I’ve learned to say that instead of “sorry for the delay”, which I am). For this highly anticipated podcast episode we’re speaking with writer, director Henry B. Chen! Henry was James’s mentor for the Taiwanese American Film Festival Pitch Competition 2019 (https://www.taff.la/). HENRY HIGHLIGHTS: Henry writes for BET’s Boomerang (https://www.bet.com/shows/boomerang.html). He and his writing partner’s main episode is “Housekeeping”. Has multiple projects in the works including a remake pitch for "3 Ninjas" with Asian Americans. Henry grew up in an Asian-majority community in East Los Angeles and went to a competitive high school with double digit valedictorians. Henry and James explain why UCSD Professor J.P Gorin is violently amazing. There was a huge culture shock when he first got into the USC film production program where there were few Asians at the time. Initially, the Asian creatives there didn’t seem to care for Henry at the beginning but eventually they became good friends. Worked at CAA after undergrad. Had a lot of opportunities to choose to work for different filmmakers and ultimately chose to work with Kathryn Bigelow. Learned from Ms. Bigelow: your work should say something. James and Henry met through the mentorship program for the Taiwanese American Film Festival Pitch Competition. James and Henry share their experiences and how important creative boundaries are. Has a TV project in the works with his writing partner called Salvage which “follows the lives of four unlikely friends trying to open their own food joint in hyper competitive Los Angeles.” After not getting much attention for their pitch packet, Henry and Jingyi put their show on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/salvage.theshow/) and got a major offer. Henry shares how The Battle of Algiers is devastating, The Matrix inspirational, and why Parasite is a perfect film. -- LANGUAGE CORNER Japanese - 感動 - kandō - to be moved (emotionally) Chinese - 四目交投 - sì mù jiāo tóu - to lock eyes with someone, lit. “four eyes trading” Korean - 직업병 - jig-eobbyeong （hanja：職業病）- the disease of your occupation, i.e. traits from your occupation that you carry over into your personal life that can be harmful. — Consider being a patron on our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Listen to Yin & Young on our - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Spotify: https://tinyurl.com/rkrynzq - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast Comments, questions? Email us at yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com.

Hi All! Yin & Young are back with an episode sharing the lessons they’ve learned training martial arts and how they’ve applied them to their own lives. HIGHLIGHTS: - Dan enrolled his kids to a kung fu school. - Picking a martial arts school for a kid: cost and convenience are major factors. - Delineation between hard and soft styles: Bruce Lee thought this separation between hard and soft was an illusion. - Many soft style masters started with hard styles first. - James studied Shotokan Karate and shares stories about his late teacher, Sensei Lafferty. - Dan says exposure and affinity to multiple styles is a modern development. Before, people in the old days just learned what was locally/regionally taught and adapted it. - Body styles might dictate the style best suited for people or how they can be adapted. - Stories about getting bullied while growing up - Is the world a cruel place? - Discussion about the deaths of Zhang Yingying and Xinran Ji, two Chinese international students in the U.S. - Stephen Kaufman's "Book of Five Rings" and "Art of War" are the interpretations that Dan recommends for both books - James recites the Shotokan Karate Dojo Kun. LANGUAGE CORNER 道可道，非常道。名可名，非常名。無名天地之始；有名萬物之母。 - 老子 Dào kě dào, fēicháng dào. Míng kě míng, fēicháng míng. Wúmíng tiāndì zhī shǐ; yǒumíng wànwù zhī mǔ. - Lǎozi The way that can be told, is not the eternal Way. The name that can be named is not the eternal Name. The Way is nameless but also Named and is the origin of all things. - Laozi (aka Lao Tzu/Lao-Tze) — Consider being a patron on our Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/yinyoungpodcast Listen to Yin & Young: - Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ - YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? - iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ - Stitcher: https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/yinyoungpodcast/ Comments, questions? Email us at yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com.

Welcome back! It’s been 3 months, but this podcast is still alive! If you’d like to help us out to be more consistent, consider being a patron on our Patreon or offering your skills as an audio editor. Email us at yinyoungpodcast[at]gmail.com. In Yin & Young episode 41, we chat with Jeff Man about filmmaking, mental health, and being more accepting. HIGHLIGHTS: - Dating and loneliness. - Dan consumes podcasts in 2x - Jeff grew up in DC, which has a diverse population. - Parents grew up in Hong Kong. - Spoke Cantonese, Mandarin, and English as a kid. Ended up in ESL in kindergarten and resented it. - Watching Chinese films helped with his language skills. - Uncle was a big movie buff. - Has been in LA for 9 years. When Jeff first moved here, it was a hard transition. “LA is a very lonely city.” - Jeff’s boss encouraged him to make short films by giving him a $100 monthly budget. You can see all his films here - Jeff Man on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/user5078400 - Midday Crisis is about a depressed man who calls a suicide hotline; based on a personal experience. https://vimeo.com/90469031 - Jeff’s short documentary “A Family Day”, follows his grandmother, who has Alzheimer’s, for one day. https://vimeo.com/121260771 - Santa Claus, in which Jeff directs and acts in, two lonely people share a contentious X-mas dinner. https://vimeo.com/194920753 - He loves documentaries as well as the narrative form. - Discussion gets deep into Invisibilia’s podcast - A Very Offensive Rom-Com: https://www.npr.org/2019/04/04/709948132/a-very-offensive-rom-com - White male Asian female coupling - Asian male desirability - Everyone has their own preferences. - Wishes people had more self-awareness. — LANGUAGE CORNER - Chinese Internet Slang (fr. James) - 拉黑 (lāhēi) which is short for 拉到黑名單 (lādàohēimíngdān) - put on a blacklist - Mandarin (fr. Jeff) - 男子漢大丈夫流血不流淚 (nánzǐhàn dàzhàngfū liúxuè bù liúlèi) - real men shed blood, not tears [Jeff disagrees] - Japanese (fr. Dan) - 勿体無い (もったいない) - mottainai - wasteful/what a waste — Listen to Yin & Young: * Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BF7YXqVAEk9EXVr45gWy4?si=3wrdb9VpSR-p3yQygvLtdw * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

Links!Back the Kickstarter for the film here!More info on the short film “Ahma & Alan” go here: http://www.jamesyshih.com/Richard Sue’s website (photography, cinematography): http://richardsjsue.comGregory Yuan’s website (acting): https://www.gregoryyuan.com/—Listen to Yin & Young: Website | iTunes | Facebook | YouTube | Spotify | Stitcher

Highlights* Darren Kwan - originally from the Bay Area, worked at a tech company in Silicon Valley before deciding on a career change to filmmaking.* James and Darren met at the De Anza College film department. Reconnected with James when he recognized Darren on the street in downtown LA.* Darren’s latest film is about the cuddling industry.* Tangent into Robert Kraft getting busted going to a massage parlor that has happy endings.* James and Darren shot a short film in the tunnels under downtown LA.—* 25:44 Oscars Talk. Everyone breaks down the issues they had with the Green Book: story pacing, racism, and replay value.* Discussion on the films that should’ve won Best Picture.—* 57:13 Moving on to the Best Documentary category, the Oscar nominated film: Minding the Gap:* Darren expresses his connection to Kiere’s story and lack of connection to Zack’s story.* Dan was impressed by the narrative structure of the documentary.* James likes the film but gets heated about how it does not address racism against Asians.* 01:19:35 - Best Animated Film, Yin and Young both agree on “Spider-Man: Into the Spider-verse” as a solid winner.—Language Corner* Japanese - 参った (まいった maitta）- a) I give up, b) I’m beaten, c) overwhelmed* Mandarin - 厭世臉 (yan4shi4lian3) - literally “hate world face”. A cool, smile-less, serious look that women have.* Cantonese - 身體健康 (san1tai2 gin6hong1) - lit. body healthy, wish you good health. Said during Lunar New Year.—Links:* Darren Kwan on Vimeo - https://vimeo.com/user32586431* Oscar Nominations 2019: Full List – https://variety.com/2019/film/news/oscar-nominations-2019-list-1203112405/—Yin & Young links:* Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/* iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/* YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA?* Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1BF7YXqVAEk9EXVr45gWy4?si=3wrdb9VpSR-p3yQygvLtdw* Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

Aka the Kitasenju Crew episode. Note: the podcast starts in Japanese but then switches to English for most of the show. Warning: explicit sexual content discussed. Apologies for the delay! I (James aka Young) took a trip to Tokyo not too long ago and made friends with artist Taku (left) and radio host/rapper Takuya (center) who asked me to be on his show. We discussed: - The short film James was directing in Taiwan called “Ahma & Alan”. - Takuya’s experience working in Cebu, Phillipines and thoughts on the political climate there. - Cultural differences between Japan, Taiwan, USA in regards to women, dating, sex etc… - Takuya’s Imagination Technique Ending song: “Rabbit House” by Plastic Girl in Closet Episode on Takuya’s Japanese website: https://note.mu/takuyam0523/n/n76982bb0ffe7 — Yin & Young links: * Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

Merry Christmas Yin & Young listeners! Today, we're sharing a very special episode, particularly for those men looking for that special someone this holiday season and into the new year. James (aka Young) interviews Jeremy Jong, an experienced relationship and dating coach with a focus on helping Asian American men attract the women of their dreams. Highlights: - Jeremy shares his strict Christian and Taiwanese tiger mom upbringing. - Focus on inner work and keystone habits. - Dealing with anxiety and toxic/sexual shame. - Why the focus on the Asian American heterosexual male audience. - Being proud of Asian culture and who you are. - Healthy sexuality. - Use the testing mindset: Don’t over intellectualize, just go out there and practice. - Compulsive pick up versus genuinely wanting to talk to a woman. For more info about Jeremy Jong: Website: https://jeremyjong.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/fearlessasianman/ Language Corner: Spanish: te ves bien - you look good Mandarin: 泡妞 - pao4 niu1 - pick up chicks — Yin & Young links: * Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

Yin & Young are back with a new podcast, the two of them revisit important topics and Young shares new stories: Catching up on what we've been doing. Yin got his Certified Scrum Master Talking about taxes and specialization Discussion turns toward natural talent and effort We go over Young's dating life: the Pharmacist and the Waitress What age difference is too great? Talk about interracial relationships How it bothers us sometimes to meet Asian women who won't date Asian men — Language Corner: Japanese - 有り難迷惑 - arigata meiwaku: feeling you get when someone offers unwelcome assistance and complicates matters, but you feel obligated to feel grateful because their intentions are pure. Mandarin: 勸君莫惜金縷衣 勸君惜取少年時。 花開堪折直須折 莫待無花空折枝。 quàn jūn mò xī jīn lǚ yī quàn jūn xī qǔ shàonián shí. huā kāi kān zhé zhí xū zhé mò dài wú huā kōng zhé zhī Cherish not, robes embroidered in gold thread; Cherish the days of your youth instead. Pluck flowers while they’re still in bloom,  Lest you pluck but bare branches. — Yin & Young links: * Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

Part 2: Race, Politics and Filmmaking - Canada doesn't have the institutionalized racism as the US. Asian American filmmakers require good execution and the confidence to tell their own personal stories. - Insight into “For Izzy” (starts 30:18): the inspiration, the writing and production process, working with actors. - Demographically, Asians are late to the entertainment game. - Asian Americans caught between two cultures. - Remembering Elizabeth Sung. Full Video (parts 1 & 2) here: https://youtu.be/yi_wDklt_Ig Language Corner: 西遊記 - xīyóujì - Journey to the West James's takeaways from Audible's Mandarin children’s version of this Chinese epic. Mainly: By helping others, we can better ourselves (from monsters to saints), teamwork is key, and it’s a super imaginative story. "For Izzy" links: website - http://forizzy.com FB - https://www.facebook.com/forizzythemovie IG - https://www.instagram.com/forizzythemovie/ TW - https://twitter.com/forizzythemovie Yin & Young links: * Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

Welcome back to Yin & Young the podcast! In this episode we spoke with Alex Chu, the writer and director of “For Izzy” (links below), an amazing film on the film circuit that delves into mental disorder, drug abuse, and the parent-child relationship in Asian American families. We delve into Alex's upbringing, thoughts on Asian representation, and his journey into filmmaking. Tiger Sheu returns as our special guest host! Part 1: Growing Up (full episode in Youtube link above). - Alex is originally from Canada and also spent part of his childhood in Libya due to his dad's job. - Son of Taiwanese parents. - Sent back to Canada for school. - Regrets not learning the local language when living abroad. - Lived in Asia (Hong Kong area) for 3 years - Speaks English and Mandarin - Grew up watching 80s films, lots of Arnold movies, Spielberg movies - Growing up in Canada was fine, no overt racism, but did feel certain pressures like not wanting to speak Mandarin in public. —— "For Izzy" links: website - http://forizzy.com FB - https://www.facebook.com/forizzythemovie IG - https://www.instagram.com/forizzythemovie/ TW - https://twitter.com/forizzythemovie —— Yin & Young links: * Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

For Part 1 go here: https://youtu.be/QVh-ec7wf6A EP34 continued - * Von and James both got into DVDASA podcast. * Von majored in Asian American Studies because the subject spoke to him. * Discussed the personal responses of Anthony Bourdain’s suicide and his impact on bridging cultures. * Lil Peep had a profound effect on Von. * James is doing Zen meditation to deal with life’s challenges. * Applying martial arts principles towards life. * Von loves podcasting. Von links: The Voncast Show – https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0dhy8DaPbSqYFaVqLJuUKA Music: music: https://fivese7encollective.com/von-aizen/ —— Yin & Young links: * Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

For part 2 go here: https://youtu.be/eHm7QO0C2To Joint podcast with Von Aizen, host of the Voncast Show!: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0dhy8DaPbSqYFaVqLJuUKA Yin & Young are back with a two part interview with Rapper, Podcaster, Asian American Studies graduate Von Aizen! * Intro to Yin and Young’s background * Von – son of Filipino immigrants, moved around California from a young age. * Von – Didn’t live with his parents in his first 7 years of life. Didn’t have a strong bond at first. * Von and James both had an emo music phase. * Von also got deep into rap. * Von's music: https://fivese7encollective.com/von-aizen/ —— Yin & Young links: * Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

Yin & Young Episode 33 is here with Actor, Martial Artist Tiger Sheu! Tiger and James (Dan was unable to join this time) chop it up in our longest podcast to date!Highlights:* Tiger’s journey from Dallas to LA* LA culture shock and the daily existential crisis* Racism faced growing up.* Finding a connection with Chinese martial arts.* Family dynamics, being a latchkey kid* Discussion of the infamous “Asian or Gay?” Details article. * “You’re hot for an Asian guy” (1h35m mark)* Martial Arts Corner: Tiger’s experience in Shaolin, Wushu, and Muay Thai* Language Corner: * Japanese: 反面教師 - Hanmen kyōshi - lit. reverse teacher. Interpretation: Learning from other peoples’ mistakes. * Mandarin: 對牛彈琴 - Duìniútánqín - lit. playing piano for a cow. Interpretation: Know you’re audience.* Advice to one’s younger self: Don’t put so much pressure on yourself; your personal mistakes do not mean you’ve failed on behalf of your parents and ancestors.* Tiger’s Guy Mezger story: “Don’t call me master.” (2h15m mark)* In Memoriam: Elizabeth Sung (1954 - 2018): a pioneer actress in film/tv and a mentor to many Asian American performers. * About her: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm0839287/bio?ref_=nm_ov_bio_sm * Elizabeth Sung Memorial Scholarship Fund: https://www.vconline.org/elizabethsungfund/---Yin & Young links:* Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/* iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/…/yin-young-podcast-…/id1185421015…* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/* YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA?* Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

Yin & Young discuss film and Young returns to Taiwan for a funeral and revisits a potential love. New intro/outro song!*Cinema Corner/Film Talk:*INFINITY WAR 00:00-14:10* Dan liked that every hero's scene wasn't shortchanged.* James was fairly positive about the film, you can listen to his movie debate on The Movie Standoff: https://soundcloud.com/user-416414507/the-movie-standoff-showdown-7-avengers-infinity-war* Picking nits about some of the relationships of the movie.* Thanos vs Apocalypse (X-Men)* Apocalypse looked too cartoonishSOLO 14:10 - 22:15* ”Solo" James didn't enjoy the movie as much as "The Last Jedi".* Dan thinks Kathleen Kennedy has lost her touch.* There are no real stakes.*Back to Taiwan* 22:15 - 32:00The Funeral* James went back to Taiwan to pay last respects to his grandmother.* James reconnected with his mom after the funeral and was glad to see his mother's interactions with her siblings.*The Date in Taiwan* 32:00 - 59:00* James went on a date and was overthinking things. (小劇場 - xiao3ju4chang3 - lit. small stage play, but colloquially means “to overthink”)* Date 1: They were sitting at Shida park and chatted, but James regrets not pushing things more.* James utilized visualization techniques prior to his next date that helped him be more confident and bold and ask her back to his place.* While they are watching a movie, James makes a move.* Listen for the outcome =)* James gets his question answered.* Dan shares his past dating experiences.* James shares a time he got high.*Approaching Women* 59:00 - 1:12:20* James approaches a woman in a parking lot. Learns that he needs to be less creepy.* Dan gives his approach tips.* Attachment theory: Anxious, Avoidant, Secure* James believes he deserves someone that’s emotionally stable.*Language Corner:* 1:12:20 - 1:17:06* 豁然開朗 - Huo4ran2kai1lang2 - suddenly see the light, a lyric from a song by Touming Magazine (透明雜誌): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kobpo92nIk4* めぐら - megura - blinded by love–––Yin & Young links:* Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/* iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/* YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA?* Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

Yin & Young and returning guest Laura Cox meet with writer and Young’s fellow Milpitas home girl Vicky Luu! * Vicky and James went to the same high school, but didn’t connect until recently in LA through a mutual high school friend, Anson, Vicky’s first boyfriend. * Vicky dated Anson out of social pressure. * Vicky is into true crime stories. * Vicky writes for Superstore. * She likes to watch a lot of different shows to see what's available. * Top 3 things she likes that doesn't involve screens, Hiking, Camping, Eating out with Friends. * Born and raised in Milpitas, Vicky went to USC for undergrad, studied film and TV. * She initially liked the production end of things. * After graduating USC, she stayed in LA as a Production Assistant working in reality TV. * Met her writing partner on the set of "Family Guy". * They wrote a script and their bosses passed it onto UTA and they both got signed. * Got their first gig on "Marry Me", then to "Grinder", then went to "Superstore" in their second season. * Vicky is conversational in Vietnamese. * Vicky came out as a lesbian in college. Vicky shares her dramatic coming out story with her parents which involves a short film, lots of laughing, and tears. * We get an inside look into how a writer's room works. * Yin leaves early because he has to take his Mom, a “Fast and the Furious” fan, to the airport in the morning. * Vicky’s grown to love LA for all the options that are available. * Vicky shares how she met her wife. * Discussion veers to the label people have of each other. Language Corner: Mandarin (James): 辛苦 - xīnkǔ - suffering, toilsome Korean (Laura): 짐이 많은  - jim-i manh-eun - burdensome Vietnamese (Vicky): Dất ơi - Oh My God Vicky Luu's IMDB: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2936759/ Superstore on NBC: https://www.nbc.com/superstore --- Yin & Young links: * Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

After a month-long hiatus, Yin & Young are back with an interview with actor George Q. Nguyen discussing his path from SF to LA and balancing a day job with an acting career. - Young met George in the Bay Area for a screening of "The Grandmaster." - George's parents used to teach language for the Defense Institute in Monterey. Was born in El Paso, but grew up in San Francisco. Started as a film major as an undergrad and filmed in 8mm. - Took one acting class as undergrad. Realized was more passionate about being in front of the camera or on stage then behind the camera. - Changed his major to Cellular & Molecular Biology, wanted a more practical major. - Got a job at ACT selling tickets to upcoming shows and was able to take ACT classes at night. Started working at a biotech before graduation. - "Whenever a director asks you to audition, you audition," was one of the first great acting lessons he learned. - Continued working both at a biotech firm and at ACT doing sales. - Biotech pays the bills to allow George to pursue his creative endeavors. - George got hit by a car not too long ago. Broke his leg in different parts and as gone through multiple operations to fix things. Rough start to 2018. - Being a consultant/contractor allows for some flexibility to go to auditions. - Tried various martial arts in SF such as Wing Chun where he learned in a garage. - Oscar Corner: Yin and Young and George discuss some Best Films from 2017. "Coco", "Three Billboards", "I, Tonya", "The Shape of Water." LANGUAGE CORNER Mandarin - 清明節 - Qīngmíng Jié - Tomb Sweeping Day Vietnamese - đám giỗ - death anniversary. Japanese (slang) - yankee - delinquent George’s Links: website: https://sites.google.com/site/geogenes/ films: https://sites.google.com/site/geogenes/george%27sfilms imdb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm2852475/?ref_=nv_sr_4 ––– Yin & Young links: * Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/ * iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2 * Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/ * YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA? * Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast

In this episode Y&Y review: The Last Jedi, Blade Runner 2049, and Lady Bird. James shares his adventures in Seoul, South Korea and Taiwan, and has a personal revelation.CINEMA CORNER (Warning: Spoilers Below!)The Last Jedi: * James had 3 issues with the movie: Luke, the jokes, and the romance between Finn and Rose.* Dan agrees with a friend that the opening joke wasn't great. Dan doesn't like the physics or inconsistencies in physics: Holdo's suicide maneuver, bombers in space, and the end scene on Crait with Rose's speeder intercepting Finn's speeder.* James doesn't like that Rey is so natural at wielding a lightsaber.* Canto Bight scene’s totally useless.* Anyone can use the force.Blade Runner 2049:* Dan - it's very racially monochrome, no diversity in the future. Didn't bother him, but it was shot beautifully. The movie was a little long.* James - the use of Asian items without Asians. The film hypersexualizes women. Feels there’s a plot hole with the “real memory”. Still, an enjoyable film with some beautiful moments.* Lady Bird:James - reminded him of "Rushmore". Lots of teen angst and intelligent humor. A little salty a Californian wasn’t cast for the lead, but not a deal breaker. Not sure what Lady Bird's motivation is.* Daniel - thought it was overrated, but enjoyed it.JAMES’ TRIP TO SOUTH KOREA AND TAIWAN:* James went to Taiwan for preproduction on his short film. Did some location scouting. Also shot a mini-short film while there.* James tried Tinder in Taiwan. Got 4x more likes in Taiwan vs. in America.* More dating opportunities for Asian American men.* Had a great date with a Japanese girl he met at a Taipei intersection. Focused on getting to know her emotionally.* Seoul, Korea - Super cold weather. James doesn't speak Korean. Hung out with Teo. Met with Seng and his wife, had Korean BBQ. Had ginger chicken soup. Stayed in 3 different areas of Seoul: Hongdae (홍대/弘大), Gyeongbokgung (경복궁/景福宮), Sadang (사당/舍堂).  * Saw a gorgeous girl at the restaurant and gave her his Kakao username. Was one of the scariest moments he ever had.* At another restaurant, James sees an attractive girl  and asked her for directions to the palace. The girl writes detailed directions for James and lets her food get cold, despite his polite protestations. * Highlight of the trip: At his 3rd Airbnb, joins a party of young artists/creatives. Screens his short film "Painting Hands" and others . (films at www.jamesyshih.com)* He talks to some girls at a bar with no success.* James realizes the reason why he seeks women's affection.Memorable Quotes:Dan: All my grievances with “The Last Jedi” have to do with physics.Teacher: With all these women, you’re posing to them a question…James: Am I lovable?Teacher: Yes. But, you have to answer that for yourself.Language Corner:Japanese - 今は今しかない - imawaimashikanai - There is only now, now.Mandarin - 活在當下 - huó zài dāngxià - Live in the moment.Yin & Young links:* Main Website: http://www.jamesyshih.com/yin-young-podcast/* iTunes: https://itunes.apple.com/us/podcast/yin-young-podcast-jys/id1185421015?mt=2* Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yinyoungpodcast/* YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkvtVW6pVPeKFn7H_6ai8lA?* Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/yin-young-podcast