The AACC Podcast

NextGen and The Challenge of Representation with Michael Lee

In this episode of the AACC Podcast, our host, Izzy Koo, chats with Pastor Michael Lee of Encounter Church in Seattle, Washington. During the conversation, Pastor Michael highlights the stereotypes that often limit the perception of Asian leaders. While Asians are seen as responsible and capable, they are rarely viewed as primary leaders. This observation has fueled Michael's passion for creating spaces where Asian voices are not just included but celebrated. His commitment to a multi-ethnic church is a response to the need for diverse leadership that reflects the community's demographics. Join us in our new series of conversations about the Next Generation and share it with a friend! Linked resources: https://www.encountereastside.org/ Host: Izzy Koo Guests: Michael Lee Podcast Manager: Gracie Hulse Producer: Daniel Harris Coordinator: Amber Rhee Follow us on IG: @aachristcollab [https://www.instagram.com/aachristcollab/?hl=en] To find out more about AACC's work, donate, or learn more visit asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com [https://www.asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com/].

NextGen and The Asian American Experience

In this episode of the AACC podcast, our host, Izzy Koo, engages with three members of the AACC Next Gen Leadership Cohort—Aimee Ebeling, Daniel Fang, and Jehuda Kusuma—to explore the complexities of Asian American identity and faith. The conversation delves into personal experiences that shaped their understanding of their cultural identities, the role of faith in their lives, and the values that resonate with Gen Z. They discuss the importance of community, mental health, and authenticity, while also reflecting on the challenges they face in navigating their identities in a diverse world. Throughout the conversation, they also stress the significance of mentorship and the ongoing journey of faith as they seek to understand their place in both their cultural and faith communities. Join us in our new series of conversations about the Next Generation and share it with a friend! Host: Izzy Koo Guests: Aimee Ebeling, Daniel Fang, and Jehuda Kusuma Podcast Manager: Gracie Hulse Producer: Daniel Harris Coordinator: Amber Rhee Follow us on IG: @aachristcollab [https://www.instagram.com/aachristcollab/?hl=en] To find out more about AACC's work, donate, or learn more visit asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com [https://www.asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com/].

NextGen and Bridging Therapy and Spirituality with Ayna Kaur Virk

In this episode of the AACC podcast, our very own NextGen Coordinator and co-host, Izzy Koo, and psychotherapist, Ayna Kaur Virk, talk about Ayna's journey as a second-generation Punjabi woman navigating her faith, mental health, and cultural identity. Ayna discusses her encounter with Christ during a challenging time in her life, the role of therapy in her own personal growth, and the unique challenges faced by South Asian Christians. She shares how cultural competency in therapy and the need for the church to address mental health issues with understanding and compassion needs more attention, now more than ever. Ayna also offers practical steps for integrating faith and mental health, highlighting the significance of community support and spiritual practices. Join us in our new series of conversations about the Next Generation and share it with a friend! Linked Resources: https://aynakaurvirk.com/ Host: Izzy Koo Guest: Ayna Kaur Virk Podcast Manager: Gracie Hulse Producer: Daniel Harris Coordinator: Amber Rhee Follow us on IG: @aachristcollab [https://www.instagram.com/aachristcollab/?hl=en] To find out more about AACC's work, donate, or learn more visit asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com [https://www.asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com/].

NextGen and The Role of Family Ministry with Pastors Terrence Shay and Hanley Liu

In this episode of the AACC podcast, our host Ray Chang has a conversation with Pastors Terrence Shay and Hanley Liu from First Chinese Baptist Church, Walnut. Terrence and Hanley explore the essential partnership between the home and the church, highlighting the importance of nurturing young people and understanding and appreciating the cultural context of the congregation. Both pastors acknowledged the need to move away from segregation models that separate generations and instead focus on building relationships that empower the next generation to take ownership of their church. Join us in our new series of conversations about the Next Generation and share it with a friend! Linked Resources: Host: Raymond Chang Guests: Terrence Shay and Hanley Liu Podcast Manager: Gracie Hulse Producer: Daniel Harris Coordinator: Amber Rhee Follow us on IG: @aachristcollab To find out more about AACC's work, donate, or learn more visit asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com.

NextGen and Youth Ministry Post-COVID with Justin Wong

In this episode of the AACC podcast, our host Ray Chang speaks with Pastor Justin Wong about the challenges and opportunities facing Gen Z within the Asian American church. While touching on the importance of understanding generational differences, the highlight of the conversation is on the impact of COVID-19 on youth ministry, and the need for churches to adapt to the unique needs of younger generations. Justin shares insights from his research emphasizing the significance of the older generations building trust, engaging with technology, and empowering the next generation of leaders through deeper connection. He also highlights the spiritual hunger of Gen Z and the necessity for churches to create safe spaces for discussion. Join us in our new series of conversations about the Next Generation and share it with a friend! Linked Resources: @justinhwong Hosts: Raymond Chang Guest: Justin Wong Podcast Manager: Gracie Hulse Producer: Daniel Harris Coordinator: Amber Rhee Follow us on IG: @aachristcollab [https://www.instagram.com/aachristcollab/?hl=en] To find out more about AACC's work, donate, or learn more visit asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com [https://www.asianamericanchristiancollaborative.com/].