Through Our Lens: Conversations with Asian American Artists

Through Our Lens - Kapwa Panel | S2, Ep 4

This is such a special episode! Emilie Kealani brought forth an idea a while back about hosting a panel discussion with her AAPI initiative, Kapwa. It brings forth AAPI members from different organizations. Alice Chung and myself from Wear Yellow Proudly, Robert Feng from Asian Opera Alliance, and Everett Robinson from WHYY make up this fabulous panel with Emilie moderating. We had some serious and fun discussions throughout that highlight leadership and advocacy. I got to learn so much from my panelists and got to know them better as well. Come check them out!

Through Our Lens - Emilie Kealani | S2, Ep 3

My guest for this episode is Emilie Kealani, a Filipina-Hawaiian soprano that is the curator and producer of Kapwa, multi-disciplinary performance that brings Asian and AAPI artists together. We had a terrific conversation of foods we grew up with, being homesick while on the road, our culture, and, most especially, her current project, Kapwa. She is a fantastic performer and discusses what it’s like being a producer. I am incredibly excited to share this episode with Emilie!

Through Our Lens - Tehillah Flores | S2, Ep 2

When I was starting this podcast, I actually created a list of people that I wanted to bring on and this episode’s guest, Tehillah Flores, has been on it since day one. She is a musician, works in management, and a terrific friend. Ever since I have known her, she has always put 110% of herself into everything she does. It is a ton of fun trying to keep track of her adventures because she is on the road more than I am. Getting to engage with her on her experiences and her perseverance was incredibly uplifting. I am excited to be able to share Tehillah with you guys!

Through Our Lens - Laura Bleakley | S1, Ep 7

For this week’s episode, I was incredibly fortunate to bring on a long time friend, Laura Bleakley. We catch up, reminisce, discuss her Asian identity, and expand on her experiences as a collaborative pianist. I used to think she was the coolest person ever, and after having had the immense honor of getting to know her through the years, that statement could not be any more true. She is one of the realest people I know and she brings the most fun energy, a very candid attitude, and the warmest friendship. It is so refreshing to have her for this episode!

Through Our Lens - Eiki Isomura | S2, Ep 1

This is Season 2! ! Eiki Isomura joins me for this episode. I’ve known Eiki for years and it is a privilege for him to bring his insight and experiences to the podcast. He talks about his experiences growing up immersed in music, representation vs. belonging, the responsibilities of being the Artistic and Interim General Director of Opera in the Heights in Houston, all while he and his wife raise a family together. I’ve admired him throughout the years and it is exciting to have had the chance to sit down with him!