Banana Lab

Ep.12 — Alwin Tan: Running, Creativity and Life Between Malaysia & NZ

In this episode of Banana Lab, we are joined by Alwyn Tan — a photographer, videographer, drone pilot, and marathon runner based in Auckland. Alwyn reflects on growing up between Malaysia and New Zealand, adapting between cultures, and how New Zealand eventually became home. We also talk about the creative industry, commercial photography, marathon training, and the differences in work-life culture between Malaysia and New Zealand. A relaxed and thoughtful conversation about creativity, identity, and balance.

Ep.11 — Sophie Kim: Hospitality, Burnout and Career Change

In this episode of Banana Lab, we are joined by Sophie Kim. Sophie shares her experience working in hospitality for over a decade, and the decision to transition into a career in marketing. We discuss burnout, work-life balance, and the challenges of prioritising yourself. Sophie also reflects on her move from Korea to New Zealand, learning English through lived experience, and adapting to a new environment. A thoughtful conversation about career change, identity, and building a new path.

Ep.10 — Romy Lee: Addiction, Identity and Recovery

In this episode of Banana Lab, Romy Lee steps into the guest seat to share her personal story. Romy reflects on growing up as a Korean New Zealander, navigating identity, sexuality, and significant mental health challenges from a young age. She shares her experience with addiction, spending 18 months in rehabilitation, and the journey towards recovery. Now working as a mental health and addiction practitioner, Romy discusses representation, cultural stigma, and the importance of compassion in supporting others. A powerful and honest conversation about identity, recovery, and purpose.

Ep.9 — Sophie Miya-Smith: Belonging, Identity and Growing Up in Limbo

In this episode of Banana Lab, we speak with Sophie Miya-Smith, a photographer and creative based in Aotearoa New Zealand. Sophie shares her experience growing up half Japanese and half Pākehā, and the challenges of navigating identity between cultures. We explore belonging, language, family dynamics, and the feeling of being “in between.” She also reflects on therapy, boundaries, and personal growth, as well as her journey into photography and building a creative career. A thoughtful conversation about identity, growth, and finding your place between worlds.

Ep.8 — Dr Janet Lee: Life, Death and Identity in Emergency Medicine

In this episode of Banana Lab, we speak with Dr Janet Lee, an emergency physician working in Aotearoa New Zealand. Janet shares her experience growing up as a 1.5 generation Korean New Zealander and how that shaped her sense of identity and belonging. We discuss the realities of working in emergency medicine, the emotional challenges of facing life-and-death situations, and the importance of compassion in healthcare. This conversation explores culture, identity, and the human side of medicine.