More Than a Monolith

23: Stumbling Toward Inclusion: Embracing Mistakes, Leadership, and Belonging with Priya Nalkur

In the season three finale of "More Than a Monolith," Dr. Priya Nalkur—psychologist, executive coach, and author—delivers a heartfelt keynote from CAAPLE Con25. She explores the power of vulnerability in leadership, the importance of reframing mistakes as stepping stones to growth, and the transformative impact of sharing our stories. Through personal anecdotes and insights, Dr. Nalkur invites listeners to honor those who gave them a turn, embrace their full selves, and create spaces of inclusion and belonging. Join us for a powerful call to courage, connection, and authentic leadership as we close out a season dedicated to identity, wellness, and the power of voice.

22: The Kindness of Color with Janice Munemitsu: Uncovering Hidden Histories and Radical Allyship

In this episode of "More Than a Monolith," Dr. Shana Henry sits down with Janice Munemitsu, author of "The Kindness of Color," to explore the powerful true story of two families whose acts of solidarity changed the course of history. Janice shares her family's connection to the landmark Mendez v. Westminster case, the challenges faced by Japanese Americans during World War II, and the enduring impact of kindness, integrity, and community. Together, they discuss why these stories remain hidden, the importance of sharing intergenerational experiences, and how everyday acts of courage and allyship can inspire hope and change in our own communities. This episode is a call to action for listeners to uncover, share, and learn from the hidden histories that shape us all.

21: Leading with Empathy: Dr. Stefan Bean’s Transformative Path in Education

In this powerful episode of "More Than a Monolith," Dr. Stefan Bean, Orange County’s 12th Superintendent of Schools, sits down with Dr. Diane Kitamura for an inspiring conversation about resilience, community, and transformative leadership. Dr. Bean shares his extraordinary story—from his birth in Vietnam and overcoming adversity as a child with polio, to becoming a passionate educator and single father of four. Discover how his personal experiences shaped his empathetic approach to leadership, his vision for uplifting vulnerable students, and his commitment to fostering equity and innovation in Orange County’s schools. This episode is a testament to the power of community, the importance of giving back, and the impact of leading with heart.

20: Rest, Resilience, and Healing with Soo Jin Lee

Explore the transformative power of rest, storytelling, and collective healing in Asian American communities in this heartfelt episode. Our guest shares insights on mental health, intergenerational trauma, and the importance of culturally rooted wellness practices. Learn about the journey behind the book "Where I Belong: Healing Trauma and Embracing Asian American Identity," and practical ways to foster self-compassion and community care. This episode is a powerful reminder that healing is possible when we honor our stories and embrace our identities.

19: Leading Boldly: Voices of AANHPI Superintendents in Education

Join us for a powerful episode recorded live at CAAPLE Con 25, where AANHPI superintendents from across California share unfiltered reflections on identity, equity, and the courage it takes to lead. Moderated by Dr. Diane Kitamura, this panel dives deep into the challenges and triumphs of educational leadership, from recruitment and retention to cultural roots and systemic reform. Be inspired by stories of resilience, actionable insights, and a vision for a more inclusive future in education.